Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Auckland, New Zealand

1. Fake Tour Guides

Unlicensed guides offering tours in Auckland city centers. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering tours.

Lack of License: Legitimate tour guides should always have a license issued by New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Overly Friendly Stranger: Avoid individuals who approach you unprovoked in tourist areas offering tours.
Check Online Reviews: Always research and read reviews of tour guides before booking a tour to ensure legitimacy.

Taxis overcharging unsuspecting tourists. Always check the meter and agree on a price before starting your journey.

Check the Taxi Meter: Legitimate taxis should always use a meter to calculate fares.
Avoid Unmarked Taxis: Only use registered and licensed taxis that are clearly marked with their company name and logo.
Know Your Destination: Research your destination's approximate fare to avoid overcharging.

Selling of counterfeit goods in markets and shops. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs.

Check for Quality: Legitimate souvenir items will have high quality, and not seem too cheap.
Look for Official Stores: Purchase souvenirs from official stores or reputable shops in Auckland city centers.
Trust Your Instincts: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your instincts when purchasing souvenirs.

Fraudulent emails claiming to be from banks or government agencies asking for personal information.

Check the Sender's Email Address: Legitimate institutions will not ask for sensitive information via email.
Do Not Click on Links: Never click on links in suspicious emails as they may contain viruses or malware.
Contact Institution Directly: If you suspect an email to be fraudulent, contact the institution directly via their official website or customer service number.

Criminals installing skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information.

Check the ATM for Tampering: Avoid ATMs that look tampered with or have an unusual appearance.
Use ATMs in Banks: ATMs located inside banks are generally safer as they are more secure and monitored.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account for any suspicious transactions to ensure no unauthorized use.

Performers who demand payment after the performance. Be aware of performers asking for money.

Check for Registered Buskers: Registered buskers in Auckland have a permit and are allowed to perform in designated areas.
Offer Voluntary Donations: If you appreciate the performance, feel free to offer voluntary donations instead of being forced to pay.
Ignore Performers if Uncomfortable: Do not engage with performers who make you uncomfortable or try to pressure you into paying.

Rental scams where properties do not exist or are significantly overpriced.

Book through Reputable Sites: Always book accommodation through reputable sites and platforms.
Inspect the Property: If possible, inspect the property before booking to ensure it exists and matches the listing.
Check Reviews: Always check reviews for the accommodation provider to ensure a positive reputation.

Cyber cafes installing keyloggers or viruses on computers to steal sensitive information.

Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Avoid using public computers for sensitive transactions like banking or shopping.
Install a VPN: If you need to use the internet café for sensitive activities, install a VPN for added security.
Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity after using an internet café.

Thieves picking pockets in crowded areas like markets and tourist spots.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close, use a bag with a zipper, and avoid displaying valuable items.
Avoid Distractions: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions that may lead to pickpocketing incidents.
Use a Money Belt: Carry important documents and money in a money belt hidden under your clothes for added security.

Unlicensed tour operators offering excursions from cruise ships at inflated prices.

Book through Cruise Ship: Always book shore excursions through your cruise ship to ensure they are reputable.
Research Excursions: Research shore excursion options beforehand to avoid overpriced or fraudulent offers.
Avoid Street Offers: Ignore unsolicited offers for shore excursions while in port, as they may be scams.

Car rental scams where the car is damaged or overpriced upon return.

Check the Rental Contract: Always check the rental contract for any hidden fees and terms.
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving off and document any damage.
Return the Vehicle as Stated: Return the vehicle in the same condition as when you received it to avoid additional charges.

Restaurants overcharging for food or drinks, or serving less than ordered.

Check Prices Before Ordering: Always check prices before ordering to avoid any surprises on the bill.
Avoid Empty or Dark Restaurants: Choose restaurants that are busy and well-lit, as they are more likely to be reputable.
Check Reviews: Always check reviews for the restaurant to ensure a positive reputation.

Selling fake or expired public transportation tickets.

Purchase Tickets from Authorized Vendors: Always purchase public transportation tickets from authorized vendors.
Check Ticket Expiry Date: Ensure the ticket has a valid expiry date and is not easily tampered with.
Avoid Buying from Street Vendors: Do not buy tickets from street vendors as they may be fake or expired.

Fraudulent charities soliciting donations in the streets of Auckland.

Research Charities Before Donating: Always research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Do not give money to individuals soliciting on the street, as they may be scams.
Donate through Reputable Channels: If you wish to donate, do so through reputable channels like official websites or organizations.

Fraudulent emails claiming to be from lotteries or competitions asking for personal information.

Check the Sender's Email Address: Legitimate institutions will not ask for sensitive information via email.
Do Not Click on Links: Never click on links in suspicious emails as they may contain viruses or malware.
Contact Institution Directly: If you suspect an email to be fraudulent, contact the institution directly via their official website or customer service number.