[MotherBear]

From 1st September 2008 drivers (from *certain countries and who have held a full licence for 2+ years) wanting to convert to a NZ licence won't have to do the theory test.

8. What has the amendment Rule changed?

From 1 September 2008, drivers applying to convert their overseas licence to a New Zealand Class 1 (light four-wheeled vehicle) or Class 6 (motorcycle) licence will not have to pass a theory test if their overseas licence was issued by one of the specified countries whose licence holders are currently exempt from passing a practical driving test in New Zealand. Applicants who are applying to convert heavy vehicle licence classes to New Zealand’s equivalent classes (ie, Classes 2-5) will still have to pass an appropriate theory test in New Zealand.

From here.

* Specified countries

Australia
Austria
Belgium
Canada
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Portugal
South Africa
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
The Netherlands
United Kingdom
United States of America