Biker and new to New Zealand

[Zyre]

Hi!

I'm 25 year old guy from Sweden that is coming over to live in beautiful New Zealand this summer. I'm staying for approx 12 months in Wellington and since I'm a biker I don't know if I can go without riding motorcycles for that long :no: plus I love exploring the countryside and I can't think of a better way than doing it by bike.

A few questions for you guys (tried the search function but it gave nothing):

1. I'm planning on spending around $4200, can this get me a decent bike that can handle the roads in NZ

2. What are the roads like?

3. For exploring the countryside, what bike would you recommend?

4. I've read something about an extremely expensive levy(tax?), what's that about?

5. Best site for buying used bikes? TradeMe?

6. What are the insurance fees like for someone my age? Good and cheap insurance companies?

Alot of questions, but it would be really helpful if you could answer at least a few of them. Thank you!!

[Zyre]

Also, if there are other things I should know about I certainly welcome any advice or insight.

[nathanwhite]

1) it should get you something small-midsize depending on factors as km's, general wear, service history etc
2) We tend to think they are are terrible and probably compared to highways and interstates in america they are, you probably need to watch some ride videos to see the roads for yourself.
3) that's kinda hard because you can have differing tastes to me. Personally I would like a midsized sport tourer like the SV or VFR (no doubt this will get shot down or better one's suggested)
4) no idea, someone else will have to answer that
5) trademe is fine if you are competent at testing out bikes and checking for mechanical flaws, you could maybe rent? Alternatively you could go to a dealer, but they tend to add several thousand to the average price on sites like trademe
6) your 25 which is the age usually the fees start going down. flick an email to kiwibike (http://www.kiwibike.co.nz/). They act as brokers for a couple of insurance companys

hope this helps somewhat.

[Zyre]

1) it should get you something small-midsize depending on factors as km's, general wear, service history etc
2) We tend to think they are are terrible and probably compared to highways and interstates in america they are, you probably need to watch some ride videos to see the roads for yourself.
3) that's kinda hard because you can have differing tastes to me. Personally I would like a midsized sport tourer like the SV or VFR (no doubt this will get shot down or better one's suggested)
4) no idea, someone else will have to answer that
5) trademe is fine if you are competent at testing out bikes and checking for mechanical flaws, you could maybe rent? Alternatively you could go to a dealer, but they tend to add several thousand to the average price on sites like trademe
6) your 25 which is the age usually the fees start going down. flick an email to kiwibike (http://www.kiwibike.co.nz/). They act as brokers for a couple of insurance companys

hope this helps somewhat.

I'm thinking a 600cc or similar. I currently own a 2008 ER6n and a 1999 SV650 and love them both. I'm selling the SV650 and will be looking to buy a bike on NZ for those money, maybe a bit more. Right now I'm leaning towards a similar bike but I asked since I don't have a feel for the roads, maybe an offroad tourer is better suited for exploring? I know the basics of mechanics and what to look for, but I don't want a bike that needs any fixing. Any work on the bike would have to be done at a repair-shop. Renting is quite expensive, the point of buying is so that I can ride during my whole stay.

Thank you for the answers, more input is certainly welcome!

[nathanwhite]

what type of bike you get is up to you. People will argue twins or fours all day, but end of the day its a preference thing, both can be ridden quite well as long as you understand the engine characteristics. As you are only over for one summer then i would say you wouldn't need an offroad capable bike as we have plenty of interesting roads (unless of course you really want to do offroad stuff)

I would also suspect that for a decent mid-size tourer you would need something more like $6000

[MSTRS]

You say 'this summer'. We are just into our autumn now, so...

1. Troll TM to get a feel for what the market prices are for bikes that appeal.
2. The roads in general are fine. We like to grumble, because as bikers we'd like them to be perfect. You do have to be alert to stuff like diesel spills and unmarked loose gravel etc.
3. A sport tourer (GSX750F would be brilliant) or an adventure bike (F650 BMW would be in your price range)
4. We must register our vehicles to use them on the road. Must be renewed every year. The tax/levy you hear about is imposed by AC, is a part of the yearly fee and varies depending on engine size. It pays for personal injury for anyone hurt as a result of a vehicle crash.
5. TM is fine most of the time, but sometimes you are better to approach a bike shop about a purchase/buy back arrangement.
6. Insurance premiums differ wildly from one company to another. 25 is the magic age for 'cheaper' rates, but shop around.

[cheshirecat]

Re The roads.

Caution. They are not classifled and prioritised according to speed or type, ie gravel path or dual carriageway. It means that a road named State Highway 1 will experience gravel, dual carriage way and everything in between. It means you have to ride accordlingly and asume the next corner will uncover a complete change in road conditions.

Also this is a land where a supermarket entrance and a public gravel track has certain rights of way over a major state highway since roads are not prioritised as in the rest of the world except the Sahara desert. No doubt the rule changes on the 25th will change this for the better we hope.

[FJRider]

I'm thinking a 600cc or similar. I currently own a 2008 ER6n and a 1999 SV650 and love them both. I'm selling the SV650 and will be looking to buy a bike on NZ for those money, maybe a bit more. Right now I'm leaning towards a similar bike but I asked since I don't have a feel for the roads, maybe an offroad tourer is better suited for exploring? I know the basics of mechanics and what to look for, but I don't want a bike that needs any fixing. Any work on the bike would have to be done at a repair-shop. Renting is quite expensive, the point of buying is so that I can ride during my whole stay.

Thank you for the answers, more input is certainly welcome!

Unless you are looking to travel ALL roads in NZ ... a (sealed) road bike would be fine. Try to get a bike with panniers fitted already, or at least capable of carrying a reasonable amount of gear.

600 cc's will move you around the country pretty well. Unless you are bringing your own riding gear ... build that into your costs too. Some older bikes may be ok to get ... some with low km's but "old" ... and thus cheaper. Resale value will remain about the same though.
Whatever you are looking at buying ... you can get checked out at any bike shop. Usually for a fee ... but good insurance. Any seller reluctant to allow this ... AVOID.

[Zyre]

Sorry for the misunderstanding, by "this summer" I mean june/july which is winter for you but summer here in Sweden :) I will browse the market and probably check out some dealers before and after I arrive. The idea of a buyback arrangement is definately worth investigating.

It seems you have a somewhat different system than we do. Here we pay a road rax as well, but it's extremely cheap. However we have to have insurance, which include something called "traffic insurance" that pay for damage and injuries that you cause to others. Ontop of that you can upgrade your insurance for your bike and your gear.

[baffa]

Welcome Zyre. Where are you going to be based?

The road quality is probably not as good as your local, but consider it a challenge!
A 600cc sounds sensible. Oh, and NZers all love Hondas, so this should be a priority.
Despite what people say, the North Island has the better roads, and less earthquakes.

Edit:
As above, we have a system called ACC, which covers injuries caused by anything from vehicle accidents to sports injuries.
So you basically cannot hold me liabile for injury if I run you over for instance. So no need for your traffic insurance. On the flipside, our vehicular insurance isnt mandatory, but third party covers are pretty cheap.

[Zyre]

Reading about insurances. Third party seems very similar to what we have here, what I called "traffic insurance" although it seems it also includes theft and fire. I'm thinking an insurance like that would be enough for a bike in the price range I'm looking at?

[Zyre]

Welcome Zyre. Where are you going to be based?

The road quality is probably not as good as your local, but consider it a challenge!
A 600cc sounds sensible. Oh, and NZers all love Hondas, so this should be a priority.
Despite what people say, the North Island has the better roads, and less earthquakes.

I'll be based in Wellington and work in the city. Hondas are nice indeed, when I upgrade my bike here in Sweden next time I'll probably go for a CB1000R.

[yod]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-453885223.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/sports/auction-454623906.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/motorbikes/motorbikes/tourers/auction-457293299.htm

[Crasherfromwayback]

trademe is fine if you are competent at testing out bikes and checking for mechanical flaws, you could maybe rent? Alternatively you could go to a dealer, but they tend to add several thousand to the average price on sites like trademe
.

Mate...you're so far out of touch it's not funny. In actual fact, most trade me sellers now ask as much as most dealers, but can offer absolutely no after sales backup and or warranty. Have a look for your self.

[Coolz]

Some on here may give you the impression that our roads are poorly maintained goat tracks with a hazzard around every corner. Henry Cole of 'Worlds Greatest Motorcycle Rides' fame called New Zealand 'Motorbike Heaven'. If you like twisty roads and great scenery you'll love it here.

[Zyre]

Some on here may give you the impression that our roads are poorly maintained goat tracks with a hazzard around every corner. Henry Cole of 'Worlds Greatest Motorcycle Rides' fame called New Zealand 'Motorbike Heaven'. If you like twisty roads and great scenery you'll love it here.

Made me laugh :laugh: I've already scouted a few roads on Google Maps, and they twist and turn just the way I like.

[oneofsix]

Made me laugh :laugh: I've already scouted a few roads on Google Maps, and they twist and turn just the way I like.

Welcome. Looks like you have been getting some good advice. The problem with Wellington is getting to the end of the motorway to do some real riding.
You'll love being able to ride for the whole 12 months of the year, based in Wellington you might want to be sure you can handle the wind gusts :laugh:

[nathanwhite]

Mate...you're so far out of touch it's not funny. In actual fact, most trade me sellers now ask as much as most dealers, but can offer absolutely no after sales backup and or warranty. Have a look for your self.

I did. Generally dealers will cost more because they offer brand new bikes whereas trademe sellers have second hand bikes. The second hand bikes are all valued differently because of variables eg km's, wear and such.

Besides 'asking price' is always coupla hundred higher then what they want.

[Crasherfromwayback]

I did. Generally dealers will cost more because they offer brand new bikes whereas trademe sellers have second hand bikes. The second hand bikes are all valued differently because of variables eg km's, wear and such.

Besides 'asking price' is always coupla hundred higher then what they want.

Ahhh...hate to tell you this, but 99% of dealers in NZ survive with used bike sales far more so than new bike sales. It's their bread and butter as it were. And nowadays, most punters are asking near normal retail for their bikes on TM without being able to offer the safety net a dealer can.

[FJRider]

Some on here may give you the impression that our roads are poorly maintained goat tracks with a hazzard around every corner. Henry Cole of 'Worlds Greatest Motorcycle Rides' fame called New Zealand 'Motorbike Heaven'. If you like twisty roads and great scenery you'll love it here.

Maybe not all roads in all areas ... but the assumption that all roads are in good condition, and always suitable for/at highway speed limit speeds ... will lead to problems. As assumptions usually do.

Road works/maintainence can occur in all/any area. Most road works are well signed ... some not that well ... with little indication in the signage to say how serious the road works are. (or length of the road works) Some roads in some conditions ... are just plain bad.

New Zealand has a lot of roadways ... some very remote. With no cellphone coverage. And often some distance from a city/town/house. And if you "fall off" the road by even a few metres (in many places) you will not be seen. Even on very busy roads. If travelling alone ... it pays to tell somebody your intentions (and timeframe). So if you don't arrive in the advised time ... somebody will start looking.

[nathanwhite]

Ahhh...hate to tell you this, but 99% of dealers in NZ survive with used bike sales far more so than new bike sales. It's their bread and butter as it were. And nowadays, most punters are asking near normal retail for their bikes on TM without being able to offer the safety net a dealer can.

Very well then. but for new bike sales. :yes:
BTW where does this info come from? your observations on trademe, working in a dealership, general experience?

[Crasherfromwayback]

Very well then. but for new bike sales. :yes:
BTW where does this info come from? your observations on trademe, working in a dealership, general experience?

25 years in the industry in 5 different shops both here in NZ and Brisbane. Buying and selling my own personal bikes and some I import from time to time as well. I have a pretty good idea of what things are worth. I do dozens of pav's for various insurance companies every year too.

[Maha]

25 years in the industry in 5 different shops both here in NZ and Brisbane. Buying and selling my own personal bikes and some I import from time to time as well. I have a pretty good idea of what things are worth. I do dozens of pav's for various insurance companies every year too.

mmmmmmmm I like pav'....Wellington MC's should give one away free with every new bike sale...:shifty:

[Crasherfromwayback]

mmmmmmmm I like pav'....Wellington MC's should give one away free with every new bike sale...:shifty:

You buy a bike off me mate and I'll give you more than a pav!:Punk:

[nathanwhite]

25 years in the industry in 5 different shops both here in NZ and Brisbane. Buying and selling my own personal bikes and some I import from time to time as well. I have a pretty good idea of what things are worth. I do dozens of pav's for various insurance companies every year too.

fair enough then :niceone:

[Crasherfromwayback]

fair enough then :niceone:

So if you're ever looking to buy a bike, be it privately or through another dealer, feel free to get hold of me for an honest opinion of it's worth. More than happy to try and help.

Pete

[nathanwhite]

So if you're ever looking to buy a bike, be it privately or through another dealer, feel free to get hold of me for an honest opinion of it's worth. More than happy to try and help.

Pete

I'll take you up on that later this year when i'm looking to get my big boys bike :scooter:

[GrayWolf]

Hi!

I'm 25 year old guy from Sweden that is coming over to live in beautiful New Zealand this summer. I'm staying for approx 12 months in Wellington and since I'm a biker I don't know if I can go without riding motorcycles for that long :no: plus I love exploring the countryside and I can't think of a better way than doing it by bike.

A few questions for you guys (tried the search function but it gave nothing):

1. I'm planning on spending around $4200, can this get me a decent bike that can handle the roads in NZ

One of the great things here is often you can buy a 15+yr old bike with minimal milage, EG: I bought an immaculate ZZR1100 1993 D3 model with only 20,000 miles for 5.25k If you are intending to go off the beaten track and explore, then a dual purpose like a GS650 beemer or a KL, DR etc would do well.

2. What are the roads like?

Difficult to answer, I am English so my comparison is that much of the State highways here are a mixture of mainly B class and some A class (english road classification). I always wondered why Kiwi's I met in the UK were so bloody good round country roads, now I live here I understand why.

3. For exploring the countryside, what bike would you recommend?

Any 650 upwards adventure/dual purpose bike will be fine. An older BMW800GS would give you pillion option over distances at highway speeds

4. I've read something about an extremely expensive levy(tax?), what's that about?
Road tax basicaly, a govt levy to allow you to ride the road, THEN an additional compulsory accident insurance levy that is the expensive part :angry:

5. Best site for buying used bikes? TradeMe?
Yes TM is a good option, but there is a few good sized dealers in the Wellington/Hutt area, TSS red baron, Motorad, Wellington motorcycles to name a few.

6. What are the insurance fees like for someone my age? Good and cheap insurance companies?
Insurance here is NOT compulsory, but I would recommend it, price as normal will depend on age, experience, endorsements (speeding tickets etc) and value of the bike insured.

Alot of questions, but it would be really helpful if you could answer at least a few of them. Thank you!!

NZ roads are like riding european country roads in most cases. THe surface finish is pretty good overall, but you will always find parts where the surface is deteriorating, loose gravel and/or areas of black tar coming to the surface, slippery as snot when wet. One off main roads NZ IS a farming country, be prepared for, sheep on road side, cow/sheep shit on the road from stock crossing, oh and to find said beasties walking along the road.
however taking all that into account NZ truly is a motorcyclists paradise, I have ridden europe, UK then NZ for a total of almost 38yrs.... If you condensed all the road types found in Europe from alpine roads, to english country roads.... into 2 small islands? thats NZ.

[MSTRS]

All this talk of how bad the roads are. Anyone would think NZ is some sort of banana republic. I resent that, since bananas don't really grow here. We are actually a 3rd world country...

[5150]

I'm thinking a 600cc or similar. I currently own a 2008 ER6n and a 1999 SV650 and love them both. I'm selling the SV650 and will be looking to buy a bike on NZ for those money, maybe a bit more. Right now I'm leaning towards a similar bike but I asked since I don't have a feel for the roads, maybe an offroad tourer is better suited for exploring? I know the basics of mechanics and what to look for, but I don't want a bike that needs any fixing. Any work on the bike would have to be done at a repair-shop. Renting is quite expensive, the point of buying is so that I can ride during my whole stay.

Thank you for the answers, more input is certainly welcome!

There are dealers here that will offer you a buy back deal. You buy a bike off them and as long as you come back with it in descent condition, they will buy it back off you when you leave again. You will loose few dollars but at least you have a way out when you leave. And you will also have a warranty that the bike is in good working condition

[release_the_bees]

If you want to have a look at the quality of some of the roads, you can use Google Street View. A lot (but not all) of the NZ roads are in there.

[_Shrek_]

I'll take you up on that later this year when i'm looking to get my big boys bike :scooter:

I live a wee way sth of welly but bought my last bike from Pete, he doesn't squeal when you :thud: "HOW MUCH" but when the deal is done every one is happy :Punk:

[Zyre]

Lots of good information, thank you!

I'm thinking a Third Party insurance including fire and theft would be sufficient for a bike in my price range. If I can get a good buyback deal I might go for a more expensive bike. Going to send e-mails to a few dealers and see what they have to say.

After checking a few of the more "remote" roads it seems like they are quite similar to the country roads here in Sweden. I think ours might actually be a bit worse cause of the frost we get in the winter.

About gear. At home I usually ride with a 2-piece Berik leather set, but I'm thinking textile would be more comfortable in NZ (the textile clothing I do have is low quality). Haven't found many websites that sell motorcycle clothing around Wellington which makes it hard to compare prices, unsure if I should buy in Sweden or NZ. I'll probably bring my helmet, gloves etc.

What's the tempo like on the roads? In Sweden it's pretty calm on the roads, but I've also been in countries like France and Portugal(Azores) where it can be pretty chaotic at times.

[nathanwhite]

Depends on where you are. For country roads and non-main highways, most people stick to, or just above the speed limit. About 20-30% of drivers will go slower then the limit prompting you to overtake. That said on those kind of roads there is not a lot of people around to begin with. Once you get onto main highways (eg, SH1) the speed stays the same but the traffic volume intensifies to the point where there will always be cars around you. You have to watch out there because some people pull really rude/arrogant/dangerous maneuvers.

[MSTRS]

Depends on where you are. For country roads and non-main highways, most people stick to, or just above the speed limit. About 20-30% of drivers will go slower then the limit prompting you to overtake. That said on those kind of roads there is not a lot of people around to begin with. Once you get onto main highways (eg, SH1) the speed stays the same but the traffic volume intensifies to the point where there will always be cars around you. You have to watch out there because some people pull really rude/arrogant/dangerous maneuvers.

Doesn't sound like any place in NZ...
Zrye - the speed limits on NZ roads often bear little resemblance to the type of road. Open road limit is 100kph, but few people seem to travel at that anymore. The de facto speed limit is more likely to be 90-95. Our 'main' roads are numbered (State Highway 1, for instance, and is the major road from one end of the country to the other)), but that is not an indication that it is well-maintained and in top condition. But then it does carry the most traffic, tends to have the heaviest police presence, and is boring...to be avoided if at all possible. The higher the number, the more likely it is to be a road a biker would want to ride. And if the road is named, rather than numbered, even more so as a rule.

[Zyre]

Doesn't sound like any place in NZ...
Zrye - the speed limits on NZ roads often bear little resemblance to the type of road. Open road limit is 100kph, but few people seem to travel at that anymore. The de facto speed limit is more likely to be 90-95. Our 'main' roads are numbered (State Highway 1, for instance, and is the major road from one end of the country to the other)), but that is not an indication that it is well-maintained and in top condition. But then it does carry the most traffic, tends to have the heaviest police presence, and is boring...to be avoided if at all possible. The higher the number, the more likely it is to be a road a biker would want to ride. And if the road is named, rather than numbered, even more so as a rule.

The country roads in Sweden are usually limited to 70-90 km/h and on these roads I usually stay 10-20 km/h above the limit, depending on the road of course. Don't get me wrong, I like speed but above 140 km/h it only gets annoying since I ride a naked bike :) I don't mind lower speeds, it's the twists and turns I enjoy the most.

[MSTRS]

T... it's the twists and turns I enjoy the most.

We've got them in spades...
Here's a taste.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZAMPojR_91M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>


KBs very own Cowboyz...stay on your side Lance.

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1FKKnzB-HIw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[nathanwhite]

Doesn't sound like any place in NZ...
Zrye - the speed limits on NZ roads often bear little resemblance to the type of road. Open road limit is 100kph, but few people seem to travel at that anymore. The de facto speed limit is more likely to be 90-95.

Hmm, funny because most people for me are at 95-100. Maybe my speedo's out somewhat.....

[oneofsix]

Hmm, funny because most people for me are at 95-100. Maybe my speedo's out somewhat.....

There will be no maybe about it, it will be out and how much will depend on things like tyre wear. :yes: But the speed most people travel at depends on the road, time of day etc. Wellington motorways you generally fight to maintain a reasonable pace even when there is space due to the way people spread themselves across the lanes but pick the right time and everyone will overtake you if you are doing 95k (speedo 100k)

[Zyre]

So far all of the dealers I've contacted can offer buyback deals. Anyone with an idea how much it will cost me?

[Crasherfromwayback]

So far all of the dealers I've contacted can offer buyback deals. Anyone with an idea how much it will cost me?

Yep. I answered that in the email I sent you.

Pete

Wellington Motorcycles

[Zyre]

Yep. I answered that in the email I sent you.

Pete

Wellington Motorcycles

Yeah $2000-3000 seemed fair. Never hurts to check several sources though :)

[Crasherfromwayback]

Yeah $2000-3000 seemed fair. Never hurts to check several sources though :)

Correct! I have an ER6 here at the mo too!

[Zyre]

Since I don't want to be limited to paved roads I decide I'm going for one of these bikes: Yamaha XT660R, Suzuki DR650, Kawasaki KLR650 or BWM F650GS. I'm haven't done much offroad before so I'll be learning as I go. Any thoughts on these bikes? I won't be getting anything older than 2000.

[sinfull]

We've got them in spades...
Here's a taste.

> Even cruisers have fun on them roads !

Within striking distance of wellington for a day out (http://maps.google.co.nz/maps/place?ftid=0x6d43d561197f23f7:0x500ef6143a2f900&q=Pongaroa,+Manawatu-Wanganui&hl=en&ved=0CAwQ-gswAA&sa=X&ei=Tu_gT-K2Eo-akgWcocWtCw)!

<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kXveH2Azfsk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[rickstv]

[QUOTE=sinfull;1130343439]Even cruisers have fun on them roads !

Some shocking lines in that video:eek:

[sinfull]

Some shocking lines in that video:eek:
Don't do lines, hurts the nose !

[_Shrek_]

Since I don't want to be limited to paved roads I decide I'm going for one of these bikes: Yamaha XT660R, Suzuki DR650, Kawasaki KLR650 or BWM F650GS. I'm haven't done much offroad before so I'll be learning as I go. Any thoughts on these bikes? I won't be getting anything older than 2000.

hiya Zyre :wavey:

Transalper is selling his 2001 Dr650 $4200 be a good bike for what you're doing

[Zyre]

Due to visa issues I will be buying a bike at a dealership with a buy-back deal. My visa only allows me to stay a year on the day, not longer. If I have a buy-back deal I can sell it back to the dealership if I can't sell it myself before I depart.

[rastuscat]

We are actually a 3rd world country...

Sorry to rain on your parade here, but by saying that, you agree with Sue Bradford. Not something I accuse people of often, but you deserve it for that claim.

Folk who think NZ is third world would do well to visit a few third world countries. Then they'd realise how bloody fine our country is.

Harumph.

[Conquiztador]

FWIW:
- Roads in NZ are great and fun. Anyone telling you anything else is full of BS.
- We ride 12 months of the year
- I would not buy a bike before I was here. Huge amount of bikes for sale everywhere. Cash is king...
- Yes, check on Trade Me, will give you a good idea re what they cost.
- Insurance is not needed in NZ (the way it is in Sweden). You can ride a bike legally w/o insurance here. Your decision if you do so.
- You need a Warrant Of Fitness on your bike. (Besiktning) Currently once every six months.
- You need to pay license for your bike (commonly called Rego). Cheaper under 600cc. Or if bike is a classic. Think over 600cc is just below $600 for a year.
- Bring your leathers to ride in. There might be a couple of days when you get warm, but you be OK. Summer temperatures are very similar to a good summer in Sweden, just 6 months of it here...
- Our ACC will cover you for injury costs to you. But perhaps consider a personal insurance?
- You can get extension on work permit depending on your qualifications and the employer and their needs.
- If you need your qualifications translated/confirmed to get work here I recommend to get that done before you get here. It can take months to get that sorted here!
- You will need a International Driver License. You should get that before you leave Sweden.
- Apply for a IRD tax number as soon as you arrive here as you will not get paid without one.
- Get a bank account as soon as you arrive as 99% of employers will only pay your wages/salary in to an account.

Om du behöver veta mera e de bara att fråga

Ta Vara

[Zyre]

FWIW:
- Roads in NZ are great and fun. Anyone telling you anything else is full of BS.
- We ride 12 months of the year
- I would not buy a bike before I was here. Huge amount of bikes for sale everywhere. Cash is king...
- Yes, check on Trade Me, will give you a good idea re what they cost.
- Insurance is not needed in NZ (the way it is in Sweden). You can ride a bike legally w/o insurance here. Your decision if you do so.
- You need a Warrant Of Fitness on your bike. (Besiktning) Currently once every six months.
- You need to pay license for your bike (commonly called Rego). Cheaper under 600cc. Or if bike is a classic. Think over 600cc is just below $600 for a year.
- Bring your leathers to ride in. There might be a couple of days when you get warm, but you be OK. Summer temperatures are very similar to a good summer in Sweden, just 6 months of it here...
- Our ACC will cover you for injury costs to you. But perhaps consider a personal insurance?
- You can get extension on work permit depending on your qualifications and the employer and their needs.
- If you need your qualifications translated/confirmed to get work here I recommend to get that done before you get here. It can take months to get that sorted here!
- You will need a International Driver License. You should get that before you leave Sweden.
- Apply for a IRD tax number as soon as you arrive here as you will not get paid without one.
- Get a bank account as soon as you arrive as 99% of employers will only pay your wages/salary in to an account.

Om du behöver veta mera e de bara att fråga

Ta Vara

Best answer so far :) Thinking of leaving my leathers at home and buy textile when I get there. Riding in leathers on a bike like the xt660r will just look funny :P

Are there alot of gravel roads on NZ?

[Conquiztador]

Best answer so far :) Thinking of leaving my leathers at home and buy textile when I get there. Riding in leathers on a bike like the xt660r will just look funny :P

Are there alot of gravel roads on NZ?

Cheers. Yep, you will find gravel if its what you want. But there is heaps of tar-seal roads too. Even "farm" roads are tar-sealed (and often very good nick as not used too much) as milk tankers need to get to the farms, so "back roads" in NZ are often tar-sealed and nice to ride.

[joan of arc]

hej

Come and enjoy riding the NZ roads. There is everything that you could wish for from long straights, to extreme twisties, and all on State Highways! And then there are the quiet back roads.


Just one misconception, not being a NZ resident or citizen means that you would need insurance if you are injured as ACC willl not cover you. ACC is NZs form of accident insurance or compensation although given the current situation regarding this corporation there is much debate about the validity of that statement. Anyway, best to get health insurance sorted before you travel here.

As you have found on this site, there are plenty here who will help you

[Conquiztador]

hej

Just one misconception, not being a NZ resident or citizen means that you would need insurance if you are injured as ACC willl not cover you. ACC is NZs form of accident insurance or compensation although given the current situation regarding this corporation there is much debate about the validity of that statement. Anyway, best to get health insurance sorted before you travel here.



Sorry, you are wrong. From site www.acc.co.nz


"What if I am a visitor to New Zealand?

If you need information about ACC in your own language we have interpreters for over 30 different languages, and Pacific and Asian advisors who can provide cultural support and help. See <!-- TRANSIT - HYPERLINK --><!-- ./other-languages/index.htm. -->In your language (http://www.acc.co.nz/other-languages/index.htm) for more information, or <!-- TRANSIT - HYPERLINK --><!-- ./contact-us-and-feedback/index.htm. -->contact ACC Claims (http://www.acc.co.nz/contact-us-and-feedback/index.htm).
If you’re injured during your visit to New Zealand, ACC may be able to help with the cost of treatment and support you need while you’re here. However, it is important to be aware that you cannot sue for personal injury – ACC replaces that right.
ACC only covers treatment and rehabilitation costs while you are in New Zealand; it is not a replacement for travel insurance and does not cover illness, disrupted travel plans or emergency travel to get you back home. We recommend you arrange travel insurance before visiting New Zealand.
Do I qualify?ACC support may be available to you as a visitor if you are:


injured in an accident within New Zealand
in certain circumstances suffering from a health problem related to working in New Zealand
injured as a result of medical treatment while you are in New Zealand
dealing with the mental effects of a sexual assault or abuse suffered in New Zealand.

The injury must have happened in New Zealand. You are not covered:


if you are injured while aboard the boat or plane on which you travelled to New Zealand, or getting on or off that boat or plane
if you are injured while travelling around the country in the craft you arrived in, such as a yacht or cruise ship. You are not covered whenever you are on board or on the gangway
if you take an excursion during your visit that takes you 300 nautical miles or more from New Zealand."

[Zyre]

Insurance for me and my belongings is sorted. Motorcycle insurance in NZ is quite cheap from what I can tell. I've been recommended Protecta and depending on what bike I get I might get full cover.