Government information for newcomers
What are the legal age limits in New Zealand?
A range of age limits applies under New Zealand law. They are:
- 5- earliest age to start school
- 6- latest age to start school
- 7- latest age to start school if child must walk more than 3 km to school
- 14- a babysitter's minimum age
- 14 - leaving a child alone in your house
- 15- getting a restricted driving licence
- 16- earliest age to leave school
- 16- living with a partner
- 16 - age of consent for sex
- 16- getting a tattoo
- 16- getting married or having a civil union (with parent's permission)
- 17- getting a full driving licence
- 18- buying alcohol
- 18 - buying cigarettes
- 18- getting married or having a civil union (without parent's permission)
- 18- borrowing money
- 18 - joining the police force
- 19- the right to free education ends
Where can I access information on national government and government organisations?
www.govt.nz (new window) is a good place to start for information on how Government works and the numerous Government departments. Government Departments are also listed at the beginning of the Dunedin telephone book, in the blue-edged pages.
Is my home country represented in Dunedin if I need assistance?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has a list of foreign embassies and representatives (new window) around New Zealand.
How do I apply for New Zealand citizenship?
The New Zealand Citizenship Office (new window) at the Department of Internal Affairs is responsible for citizenship matters.
Last reviewed: 13 Jul 2008 5:33pm
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