FAQ's

Flying into Wellington

No official carrier has been nominated for the workshop due to competitive airfares available via the internet.  There are five airlines who fly regularly into Wellington direct from Australia.  Check out the best fares of the day from these airlines.

      

Wellington Airport 

Wellington Airport is located approximately 9km central Wellington via State Highway 1 – less than 22 minutes by car.  There are a few options to get to and from Wellington Airport to the city.

Bus services to and from Wellington Airport

Airport Flyer
The Airport Flyer is an express bus service that travels between Lower Hutt and through Wellington City to the Wellington International Airport and back. It departs from the southern end of Level 0, just to the right of the domestic baggage claim.

Please note from Monday 30 April the Airport Flyer bus stop is being temporarily relocated - please follow signage on Level 0 a short distance to the new temporary stop.

The Airport Flyer buses offer passengers free Wi–Fi, easy access, air conditioning, leather coach–style seats, convenient luggage racks, automatic announcements about next stops, TV screens displaying flight info, weather and news update and runs services from Wellington Airport to Wellington Railway station every 10 minutes on weekdays from 6.30am to 9.00am and 2.00pm to 7.00pm. It runs every 20 minutes at all other times. It stops at various major stops throughout Wellington.

Travelling to/from Wellington International Airport to the CBD is a 4 zone fare which costs $9.00 one way. You can pay with cash or your Snapper card.

For more information click here.

Other Bus Services
Route 11 – Seatoun is a regular bus service that departs from Wellington Station and travels through the city to Seatoun. It will take you to the corner of Broadway and Hobart Street (Bus Stop Number 6033) which is a 10 minute walk from Wellington International Airport. A 3 zone fare to/from the airport costs $5.00 one way.

Fare information, timetables and ticket prices can be viewed at www.metlink.org.nz.

Shuttles
An airport shuttle is a cheaper option than taking a taxi if you’re travelling on your own or in a large group. Shuttle ranks can be found directly outside the baggage claim area on Level 0 of the main terminal, but you can book online or download the free app.

Super Shuttle shared-ride fares offer substantial discounts for passengers traveling in the same group to the same destination. Costs vary depending on your destination, but a shuttle to/from Wellington CBD starts at $20 NZD. You can pay for your shuttle with cash or credit card. Credit card payments will incur a $3 processing fee, but this fee is waived when you book online.

Super Shuttle
P: 0800 SHUTTLE (0800 748885) or 04 472 9552
Also offer pre-bookings.
www.supershuttle.co.nz
https://www.supershuttle.co.nz/app

Taxis

Taxi ranks can be found directly outside the baggage claim area on Level 0 of the main terminal.  While costs may vary between service providers, a Taxi/Executive Cab to/from Wellington CBD can cost between $30-40 NZD. You can pay this fare with cash, credit or EFTPOS.

There are four taxi companies authorised to pick up non booked fares from Wellington International Airport:

Wellington Combined Taxis
P: (04) 384 4444
www.taxis.co.nz

Green Cabs
P: 0800 GO GREEN (0800 46 47336)
www.greencabs.co.nz

Kiwi Cabs
P: (04) 389 9999
www.kiwicabsltd.co.nz

Hutt & City Taxis
P: (04) 570 0057
www.huttcitytaxis.co.nz

Corporate Cabs
Pre-bookings only
P: (04) 387 4600
www.corporatecabs.co.nz

Uber

Uber operates at Wellington Airport.  The Uber and ride sharing pick-up is located on the ground level of the terminal.  To meet your driver exit the terminal and follow signs to the Ride Sharing Pickup Zone, which is located across the forecourt and under the covered parking area.

https://www.uber.com/en-NZ/airports/wlg/

Car Rental

Wellington International Airport offers convenient on-site car rental services from seven car rental operators. You’ll find car rental counters on Level 0 next to domestic baggage claim.

To make reservations, or to find out more information, please contact the car rental agencies directly or book online here.

Car Rental Companies:

Avis Rental Cars
P: (04) 802 1088 or 0800 655 111
www.avis.co.nz

Budget Rent-A-Car
P: (04) 388 0987 or 0800 652 227
www.budget.co.nz
 
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
P: 0800 227 067 or (04) 380 8914
www.enterpriserentacar.co.nz

Europcar New Zealand
P: (04) 380 6617
F: (04) 380 8720
www.europcar.co.nz

Ezi Car Rental
P: 0800 545 000 or (04) 473 1165
www.ezicarrental.co.nz 

Hertz Rent-A-Car 
P: (04) 388 7070 or 0800 654 321
www.hertz.com

Thrifty Rental Cars
P: (04) 388 9494
www.thrifty.co.nz .

 Getting around Wellington

There are several options for getting around Wellington.  It is generally not recommended that travellers rent a car in the area, as the roads are steep, narrow and difficult to navigate.  Plus, it is easy to get around Wellington without a car.  Many places are within walking distance in this compact city, and the combination of public transportation options and taxi car rentals makes it possible to get to anywhere within the city as well as many places outside of the city with relative ease.  Public transport in Wellington consists of trains, buses and ferries and is a great way to travel around Wellington. 

Metlink is the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s public transport network. It consists of: 

• four railway lines operating from Wellington Railway Station to the Hutt Valley, Johnsonville, Ka-piti and Wairarapa 
• more than 100 bus routes that cover the region 
• harbour ferry services between Wellington city and Days Bay, Matiu/Somes Island and Seatoun. Greater Wellington Regional Council contracts private operators to provide most of these services. The Dominion Post Ferry runs a regular service between Wellington city, Petone and Eastbourne/Days Bay, with some services stopping at Matiu/Somes Island.  The ferry terminal is located on Queens Wharf on Wellington's Waterfront.

For more detailed information on Metlink please visit www.metlink.org.nz or call Metlink on 0800 801 700.

Taxis
Those interested in getting somewhere quickly may opt to get a taxi instead of taking public transportation.  Taxi fares are not standardised, so visitors will want to shop around for the best cab company rates before reaching the area.  However, most taxi companies offer competitive rates, with fares generally being lower than $2 per km and often being considerably cheaper, especially when visitors opt to use budget taxi services.  Taxis can be hired, with advance notice, for taking multi-hour and half-day tours around Wellington, although public transportation may be the better option for seeing the area. .

Passport, Visas and Customs

Visa & Passport
When you arrive, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa.

You do not need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are:

• A New Zealand or Australian citizen or resident
• A UK citizen and/or passport holder (you can stay up to six months)
• A citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to three months).

If you don't meet the above critera or for more information about coming to New Zealand, visit Immigration New Zealand.

Arrival in New Zealand
On arrival in New Zealand you will need to complete a Passenger Arrival Card before passing through Customs Passport Control. A passenger arrival card will be given to you during your flight. If not, cards are available in the arrival area.

What you can bring into New Zealand
After you’ve cleared passport control, you should collect your baggage and proceed through customs and biosecurity checks. In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment.

Your baggage may be sniffed by a detector dog and/or x-rayed, and it may be searched to identify any risk goods you might be carrying.

To avoid penalties it is best to familiarise yourself with these guidelines prior to travel. For a detailed list of prohibited, restricted or declarable items, please visit Ministry for Primary Industries (biosecurity agency).

Allowances and duty free concessions
As a visitor to New Zealand you may be entitled to various concessions and duty free entries on some of your goods. If you are 17 years or older, you are entitled to allowances for alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco. For detailed information on allowances and duty free concessions, please visit New Zealand Customs..

 Visitor information

https://www.wellingtonnz.com/australia/

Download a visitor map of Wellington here>>

Download an official Visitor Guide here>>

How do I gain entry into the workshop sessions?

It is suggested that delegates arrive at preferred sessions promptly to ensure a seat. If sessions become full then delegates will not be allowed entry. Please wear your name tag for entry into all sessions. .

Where is the workshop venue?

The workshop will be held in the Cotton Theatre at the Victoria University of Wellington Kelburn Campus, located in Wellington 6012, New Zealand. Please click here to see directions to the Cotton Building. 

What time does the registration desk open?

The registration desk will open at 8am both days. 

Where do I register?

The registration desk will be located outside the Cotton Theatre.

How will I know if there have been any changes to the program?

Any changes to the workshop program will be announced during housekeeping notices in the morning. You may also check with Leishman Associates staff at the registration desk.

Will copies of the presentations be available after the workshop?

PowerPoints will be available on the workshop website following the conclusion of the workshop. Speakers will be requested to sign a release form. This is not compulsory.

 What food is included in my registration?

All morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea is provided. All food at the Workshop Dinner is included, if you are attending.

 I have special dietary requirements – what do I do?

You must advise the workshop managers of any special dietary requirements when you register for the Workshop. Caterers at each function will be informed of these. Please speak with wait staff at each break as your dietary requirement may be catered for separately if the buffet meals do not cater for you requirements. If you are unsure, please don’t hesitate to ask staff at the registration desk.

IMPORTANT – If your dietary request relates to a life-threatening allergy, please ensure that you advise the organisers as soon as possible. .

When and where is the workshop dinner?

The Workshop Dinner will take place at Te Papa, Museum of New Zealand.  This will be a 3-course dinner. This event will commence at 6.30pm for a 7pm start and will conclude at 10.00pm.  

How do I know if I am registered for a social function?

A ticket to the Workshop Dinner is included in each full registration (please note you do need to indicate your attendance prior to arriving at the dinner). Additional tickets can be purchased for accompanying partners. After registering for the workshop you would have been emailed a registration confirmation which lists the social functions for which you are registered. If you require another copy please email Bree Blackwell

Can I bring a partner along to the workshop dinner?

Yes, you most certainly can – additional tickets can be booked when you registered online, or through the Leishman Associates office. Please email your request to: Bree Blackwell. During the workshop, bookings can be made at the registration desk, subject to availability. .

 How do I pay for my accommodation?

When you book your accommodation your credit card details will be transferred to the hotel you have selected – please confirm this on check in with your hotel. Your credit card will not be charged until you check out. If you have arrived 24 hours later than your indicated arrival day you may find that you have forfeited your deposit.  If you would like to make pre-payment, a Tax Invoice can be provided by the hotel.  If you are checking out on a credit card not in your name, please complete a Credit Card Authority Form and email to bree@laevents.com.au 

 Is there security at the workshop?

The members of the workshop organising committee and Leishman Associates accept no liability for personal accident of loss or damage suffered by any participant, accompanying person, invited observer or any other person by whatever means. Nor do we accept liability for any equipment or software brought to the workshop by delegates, speakers, sponsors or any other party. Please protect your personal property. Do not leave laptops, cameras, and other valuable items unsecured. Be conscious of individuals who appear out of place and do not wear a workshop name badge. Advise Leishman Associates staff if you see anything suspicious. .

Can I photograph or record the workshop sessions?

Delegates are not permitted to use any type of camera or recording device at any of the sessions unless written permission has been obtained from the relevant speaker. A professional photographer will be at the workshop, if you have any issues with being photographed please notify the photographer or Leishman Associates staff. .

 I am a speaker, what should I do?

It is our preference if you can upload your presentation to a drop box prior to the workshop commencing.  Details for this would have been sent to you in an email on Friday, 9 November.  If you did not receive this, please contact the Workshop Manager.  If you are unable to provide your presentation prior to the workshop, please bring the same with you when you register.  This should  be done at least 2 hours prior to your presentation time. Speakers are also requested to assemble in their session room 5 minutes before the commencement of the session if possible, to meet with their session chair and to familiarise themselves with the room and the audio visual equipment. A technician will be present in the room at all times. There will be facilities to test and modify your presentation if required.

I am a chairperson, what should I do?

Chairpersons will receive an email prior to the workshop, reminding them of their responsibilities. If you are a chairperson and do not receive this, or have additional questions, please contact Leishman Associates. .

 What is the dress code for the workshop?

For all Workshop sessions the dress code is smart casual or informal business.

The dress code for the Workshop Dinner is 'After 5'.

Will there be wireless internet access?

There will be wireless internet access at the workshop. Please ask at the registration desk for details.

Parking at the venue

Victoria University of Wellington
Kelburn, Wellington 6012, New Zealand
Alan McDiarmid Building

There are 125 Pay and Display parks available for visitors, staff and students located along Waiteata Road.  Prices range from $3 an hour to $10 a day (7am - 7pm).  There are also short term visitor parking but are a maximum of 2 hours and bookings are essential. See booking contacts details below:

• Hunter Courtyard (P120)—two spaces—phone 0800 VICTORIA or email info@victoria.ac.nz 
• Behind Cotton, east side— six spaces—phone 0800 VICTORIA or email info@victoria.ac.nz 
• Hunter (VC's)—two spaces—phone 04-463 5301

Given the limited car parking at the University it is recommended that people catch public transport such as the well serviced bus which runs from outside the Law School/Rutherford House to Kelburn campus, the cable car service which runs every 10 minutes on weekdays or a taxi.  .

Climate

The Workshop will be held in November, which is late spring in New Zealand. Temperatures are warm, but comfortably so. November temperatures in Wellington range from a top of 17 degrees to a low of 11 degrees.

The wind turbine overlooking Wellington sets world records, so be prepared for the wind.  Generally, the equinoxial winds in Spring are the worst, but you can be assured that many days the wind is very moderate, and no problem most evenings - why else would alfresco bars and cafes be so popular!

For more information on weather in Wellington please visit http://www.wunderground.com/global/st  or http://www.metvuw.com/ .

 Time zone

Wellington works on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), 12 hours in advance of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) – 2 hours ahead of Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).

During summer months—from the last Sunday in September until the first Sunday in April—daylight saving time is observed and clocks are advanced one hour. New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT) is 13 hours ahead of UTC.  .

 Shopping hours

Most shops in Wellington are open from 09:30 am to 18:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, usually remaining open until around 21:00 pm on both Thursday and Friday. Sunday trading is extremely popular and now most shops in the city are open until around 16:00 pm to 17:00 pm every Sunday. .

 Banking hours

Bank of New Zealand generally operates from Monday to Friday - 08:00 am to 18:00 pm, Saturday - 09:00 am to 15:00 pm. Most banks provide convenient automatic teller machines. Foreign currency exchange is available during trading hours. .

 Water

Wellington tap water is clean, fresh and safe to drink.

 Disclaimer

The Future of Learning Environments Workshop reserves the right to amend or alter any advertised details relating to dates, program and speakers if necessary, without notice, as a result of circumstances beyond their control. All attempts have been made to keep any changes to an absolute minimum.