Kiwi Nutz

The Alternative NZ Library system

Can't carry enough books with you?

So you intend coming to NZ for a significant stay, but you're a book worm, just how many books do you want to take with you on the plane? Well I'm not a book-worm but my wife is, and that was a problem, or so we thought.

As a citizen of any modern country you are entitled to join your local library, but what of a holiday maker, surely it cannot be the same, well in NZ it is. There are as expected some standard applications that you need to make, in particular, the provision of a 'permanant' NZ address, a reference or utility bill provides is perfectly satisfactory. From there you can borrow books like any other Kiwi.

Library Link, whereto get the real answers

For detailed information on all NZ Libraries visit here. Or read on for our own impression of the service.

Fees for opening a Library membership

There are no fees for children but adults are charged a fee of $5.00 per year. Not bad considering that the libraries are well stocked, with the full range of books and information you would expect to find in the UK.

Membership Book Allowance per Library Card

Again this is on a par with the UK. You are entitled to take 10 books out per membership card.

Overdue Books

Libraries do operate an 'Overdue fines' system, which is not unusual but what I found enlightening was their attitude to what is considered 'Overdue'. If a book is returned 'a little bit late' the fee is waivered with a smile. It is only if an 'Overdue' letter is sent to you that a fine is applied. And even then the fees are not extortionate at $0.20 per day (8p)

Opinion

We found the Libraries an excellent source of local and national information. Census and planning data are freely available to browse and services such as 'ordering books' are available for small fees. The kids, whom love their books too got to learn about all the local animals and insects and had plenty of bed-time reading. They even got involved in the reading-clubs during the NZ school summer holidays. Make it one of the first things you do.