Milano Cortina 2026

Ticketing FAQs – Milano Cortina 2026 

How will I receive my tickets? 

All tickets for Milano Cortina 2026 are issued digitally to the email address you provided and accessed via the official ‘Tickets MilanoCortina2026’ ticketing app (available on both iOS and Android app stores). For security reasons, the QR code used for venue entry will only become visible close to the event time. This is normal and not a fault with your ticket. 

Do tickets need to be in my name? 

Yes. All tickets are nominative and must be assigned to a specific individual. This is a legal requirement under Italian law and an IOC security measure. The name on the ticket must match the person attending the event. Please carry an ID with you as there will be random checks conducted at the entry gate. 

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else? 

Yes, provided the transfer is completed within the official Milano Cortina 2026 ticketing app or platform, and meet the ticket transfer requirements. Tickets cannot be transferred by screenshot, email, or message. Entry will only be granted to the person whose name appears on the ticket in the official app. 

How do I purchase additional tickets? 

Tickets can only be purchased via the official Milano Cortina 2026 ticketing platform. We strongly discourage purchasing tickets from resale websites or unofficial sources, as these tickets may be cancelled or refused entry. 

What if I need to change tickets or make an emergency booking during the Games? 

During Games time, the NZOC’s travel services provider, NZOT/ House of Travel will provide remote concierge support for ticketing changes and emergency travel re-bookings for those under the NZOC’s programme. Support is available during concierge hours: 6:00pm-10:00am Italy time | 6:00am-10:00pm NZ Time. Please note: NZOT can only aid those on the NZOC programme and cannot override IOC ticketing rules or venue policies. 

How do athletes’ Friends and Family access tickets?

Athletes’ Friends and Family may purchase up to two tickets per competition session in which their athlete is competing, via a dedicated Friends and Family ticketing portal linked to the athlete. Access is subject to availability and is not guaranteed. 

For some indoor venues, limits apply per person per day, and accreditation must be presented alongside the ticket for entry. 

Will there be physical (paper) tickets? 

No. All tickets are digital only. 

Please ensure: 

• The official ticketing app is installed, and you are logged in 

• Your phone is charged before arrival to an event 

• You allow notifications and internet access where possible 

What happens if my phone battery dies, or I can’t access the app? 

Each venue has an official Milano Cortina 2026 ticketing help desk. Staff can verify your identity and assist with restoring access where possible. Allow extra time if you think you may need assistance. 

Are hospitality packages available? 

Yes. Official hospitality packages are offered through On Location. These typically include premium seating and hosted experiences. These can be found online but please be quick as availability is limited. 

Who do I contact for urgent ticketing support during the Games? 

For urgent ticketing or travel issues during the Games, your best port of call will be the New Zealand Lodge at the Hotel Krone in Livigno. If you cannot make it there in person, please contact NZOT via WhatsApp or email during concierge hours. Final contact details will be provided in your pre-Games travel information. 

What support does NZOT provide? 

NZOC Institutional Guests: ticketing and concierge support 

Athlete Friends and Family: emergency travel support 

Non-Olympic family guests: support available at the traveller’s own cost 

Can children attend events without a ticket? 

Children aged 3 and under may attend without a ticket if seated on an adult’s lap. All other children require their own ticket. 

What time should I arrive at venues? 

Arrive at least 60-90 minutes before session start, especially for high-demand events. Expect queues through security screening and allow for additional transport constraints which may cause delays. 

Are tickets refundable? 

Tickets are generally non-refundable, unless resold via the official resale platform (available closer to the Games, subject to conditions). If you have purchased tickets via the NZOC, please approach a team member to better understand your options here. 

Does my ticket include transport? 

In some locations, event tickets may include limited public transport access on event days. Details vary by venue and will be communicated closer to the Games. 

What happens if an event is delayed or rescheduled? 

Tickets remain valid for the rescheduled session. Refunds are subject to official Milano Cortina 2026 policies. 

General Travel FAQs – Milan 2026 Winter Olympic Games 

How long does my passport need to be valid for? 

Everyone travelling to Italy will require a valid passport. If you are not travelling on a New Zealand passport, please advise us immediately as different requirements may apply. 

For travel to Italy (and the Schengen Area), your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from Europe and must have been issued within the last 10 years. 

If you are travelling to other countries as part of your journey, different passport validity rules may apply, with some countries requiring six months’ validity beyond your departure date. 

New Zealand passport holders do not currently require a visa for short stays. However, stays are limited to a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Area, and you may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel. 

If you have a criminal conviction, specific entry regulations may apply. 

If you need to renew your passport, please do so as soon as possible via http://www.passports.govt.nz/ 

Do I need any vaccinations? 

No vaccinations are required for entry into Italy. If you have any personal health concerns, we recommend contacting your GP prior to travel. 

Proof of Covid-19 vaccination is not required for entry into Italy. 

What is the best way to get around? 

Italy has an excellent public transport network, though transport options vary by region: 

• Milan: Metro, tram, and bus systems are efficient and widely used. Single metro tickets are approximately €2.20, with daily and multi-day passes available. 

• Mountain venues (e.g. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno): Travel is more limited and often relies on buses, shuttles, and private transfers. During the Games, dedicated Olympic transport services are expected. 

• Trains: Italy’s high-speed trains connect major cities and are an efficient way to travel longer distances. 

• Walking is common in city centres, but winter conditions may affect travel times. 

What is the time difference between New Zealand and Italy? 

Italy operates on Central European Time (CET, GMT +1) and Central European Summer Time (CEST, GMT +2). 

During February (Games period), Italy is 12 hours behind New Zealand (NZDT). 

When New Zealand is on standard time, Italy is 11 hours behind. 

What will the weather be like? 

The Milan 2026 Winter Olympic Games take place in February, and conditions will vary by location: 

• Milan: Cold winter temperatures, typically 0°C to 8°C, with possible rain or fog. 

• Mountain venues (Cortina, Livigno): Expect snowy and alpine conditions, with temperatures commonly ranging from -10°C to 5°C. 

• Warm winter clothing, waterproof outer layers, and good footwear are essential. 

What time is check-in and check-out of the hotel? 

Most Italian hotels operate with: 

• Check-in from 2:00–3:00pm 

• Check-out by 11:00am–12:00pm 

Please note that hotels require photo identification (passport) at check-in and a credit card to cover any incidentals not prepaid. 

What are the hotel facilities like? 

Most mid- to high-range Italian hotels offer: 

• Restaurant and/or bar 

• Free Wi-Fi 

• Fitness centre (not guaranteed at all properties) 

• TV, hairdryer, safe, tea/coffee facilities 

• Heating (air-conditioning is less common in winter destinations) 

• Facilities will vary depending on location, particularly in alpine regions. 

Can I take my phone charger or hair straighteners? 

Italy uses Type F (and Type C) power sockets with two round pins. 

Voltage: 230V 

Frequency: 50Hz 

New Zealand appliances generally work on the same voltage, but you will need a plug adapter. 

Check your appliance label: If it states “INPUT: 100–240V, 50/60Hz”, it can be used safely (common for phones, laptops, cameras). 

Are taxes included in prices? 

Yes. Italy has a Value Added Tax (VAT) of approximately 22%, which is included in displayed prices for goods and services. 

Is there a tax refund scheme? 

Yes. As a non-EU visitor, you may be eligible for a VAT refund on certain purchases when departing Europe. Participating retailers will provide the required documentation. 

Refunds are processed at the airport or via digital systems. Using the official refund apps can save time at departure. 

Do I tip? 

Tipping is not expected in Italy. Service charges are often included, and restaurants may add a coperto (cover charge). 

If you receive exceptional service, a small tip is appreciated but entirely optional. 

What do I do about money? 

Italy uses the Euro (€). 

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and hotels. 

Some smaller cafés, taxis, or alpine villages may prefer cash. 

ATMs are widely available. 

Ensure your card has a PIN, and notify your bank of your travel plans before departure. 

For exchange rates, visit www.xe.com 

What are the opening hours of shops? 

Typical opening hours: 

Mon–Sat: 9:00am–7:00pm 

Many shops close for a lunch break, especially outside major cities. 

Sunday trading varies by region but most places should be open during the Games. 

What are the prices of general items? (Indicative) 

• Coffee (espresso): €1.50 – €4 

• Beer (bar): €6 – €9 

• Wine (bar): €5 – €12 

• Bottled water (1.5L): €0.50 – €1.50 

• McDonald’s combo: €9 – €12 

• Mid-range restaurant (dinner for two): €60 – €80 

How much Duty Free can I take in and out of New Zealand? 

Returning to New Zealand: 

• 50 cigarettes or 50g tobacco or 50 cigars 

• Up to 3 bottles of spirits (max 1125ml each) 

• 4.5 litres of wine or beer 

• Goods up to NZ$700 

Entering Italy: 

• 200 cigarettes or 250g tobacco or 50 cigars 

• 4 litres of wine and 1 litre of spirits 

• Goods up to €430 (air travellers) 

• Allowances are subject to change. 

What is the drinking age? 

The legal drinking age in Italy is 18 years. Public drinking laws vary by city, and local restrictions may apply. 

Can I use my phone in Italy? 

Italy’s country code is +39. 

Prepaid SIMs are widely available from providers such as TIM, Vodafone, and WindTre. 

Wi-Fi is commonly available in hotels, cafés, and public areas. 

Check with your provider about international roaming. We recommend disabling automatic app syncing to avoid excessive roaming charges. 

Tips to help with your travel 

• Stay hydrated during flights (drink ~200ml per hour). 

• Consider compression socks for long-haul flights. 

• Move regularly during travel to reduce DVT risk. 

• Winter travel: pack layers, moisturiser, and lip balm for dry alpine conditions. 

Italy at a glance 

Capital: Rome 

Population: ~59 million 

Currency: Euro (€) 

Time Zone: Central European Time 

Climate: Cold winters; alpine regions experience snow and sub-zero temperatures 

On the ground 

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Italy. Bottled water is widely consumed by choice. 

How do I keep safe? 

Italy is generally safe, but petty crime can occur in busy tourist areas. 

Keep valuables secure 

Store copies of key documents digitally and in the cloud 

Register your travel with MFAT:  www.safetravel.govt.nz 

Emergency phone numbers 

Emergency services: 112 

New Zealand Embassy (Rome): 

Embassy of New Zealand, Rome 

Phone: +39 06 853 0601 

Consular assistance available for NZ citizens