For easy reference here is a (linked) list of all our posts for folks New 2 NZ that we hope will help you hit the ground running:

Camping, hardware & auto stores

Connectivity

Cost of eating

Crossing the Cook Strait

Exchange rates

Getting around

Got gas?

Hitchhiking - is it legal?

How am I to get mail while travelling?

Keep left and other road rules

Money, money, money

Motorhome & camper rental

Protect our nature reserve

Road User Charges

Shopping

Waste not, want not - rubbish disposal

Weather & what to wear

Weta

What's up doc?

If there is something we have missed or you really want an on-the-ground post about, let us know.