I was planning on largely using travellers cheques, and keeping with me some cash. Will these be accepted at most places or should I just stick to cash and using the ATM?

Didn't see one TC while I was there for 25 days ... That's not to say you CAN'T use it. Could be more probs than it's worth though.

- Vic

awww man that sucks...i just got back from the bank getting...ALL...my...money...in traveller's checks. i sure hope they'll work.

just curious though: what are the charges like at ATM's there? and the ATM will withdraw american dollar's from my account but spit out NZD? sorry if this is a stupid question but i've never left the states before and have NO clue how this works...i'm confused...

Most banks will exchange your traveller's cheques for a small fee or nothing at all. However, you will have some trouble using them to pay for goods in shops. I would check with your bank in the USA as to how much they will charge you to withdraw money from an ATM in New Zealand. Like anywhere, your best payment method is a credit card.

In the touristy areas, you should be able to
use travellers cheques in most places.
Failing that I would suggest exchanging them
for cash.

With American Express cheques, you should have a list of providers who will exchange them free of charge. In NZ, the ASB Bank, and the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) will do this.

As for ATM charges. Well most banks charge for overseas based withdrawls. Anywhere from 1-5% depending on the bank.

I know as a NZ'er, if I use a credit card
overseas the fee is 2.1%. I imagine its much
the same coming over here.

My advice would be to bring a mixture with you.
Banks & ATM's are widespread, so no dramas trying to find one.

Have fun

I used ATMs to get cash out whenever I'm in Australia no problems. Yep the bank you are with will charge you a fee for using an overseas ATM - as for the USD to NZD thing, the ATM when you hit balance should show you your balance once it has been converted into NZD - so in effect you bank blance will be higher in New Zealand than in the States due to the USD being slightly stronger than the NZD, the ATM won't rip you off if that is what your thinking.

As for travellers cheques - you best bet would be to cash them at a bank and use cash or credit cards while you are in NZ