New Zealand is one of the most picturesque countries in the world. The beautiful landscapes and the friendly people make this nation a highly desirable place to visit. However, with any country comes a set of norms that must be followed- exactly how locals expect them to be followed. If you’re an outsider, it’s imperative to understand the cultural norms in New Zealand to avoid any misunderstandings.
Let’s break down these cultural norms in New Zealand so that you can have a better understanding of the expectations and customs.
1. Greetings and Respect
New Zealander’s are casual but also courteous people. In New Zealand, it’s expected to acknowledge anyone you encounter. Whether it’s a stranger on the street or your friend’s parents, you show them respect by making eye contact, nodding or waving your hand, and saying ‘hello.’
2. The Treaty of Waitangi
This treaty is significant to New Zealanders because it brought about a peaceful agreement between the Maori tribe and the English colonizers. It’s crucial for tourists to acknowledge the treaty and respect it because it’s an essential part of New Zealand’s history.
3. Tipping
Unlike other Western countries such as the United States, tipping in New Zealand is not customary. Most locals draw good salaries and tipping is not considered a necessity. Tourists can tip if they wish to show appreciation for excellent service, but it’s not compulsory.
4. Food and Drink Culture:
In New Zealand, food and drink culture are significant. It’s common to enjoy a laidback brunch, traditional hangi (a Maori earth oven feast), or a bbq with friends and family. The drinking age is 18, and it’s common to find bars and pubs everywhere in the country. The drinking culture is taken seriously, and New Zealanders expect responsible drinking from everyone.
5. Respect for Nature:
New Zealand is famous for its diverse natural beauty, and locals highly value it. Tourists are expected to respect the environment, follow the designated trails, and leave no trace when leaving the natural areas.
6. Sense of Humor:
Lastly, New Zealanders are known for their sense of humor. They like to joke around and laugh with friends and family. Don’t be afraid to join in on the fun if you don’t understand the jokes or find them a bit odd.
In conclusion, New Zealand has a unique set of cultural norms that are essential to understand before visiting the country. Remember to greet people with respect, be aware of the Treaty of Waitangi, don’t worry about tipping, enjoy the food and drink culture, respect the environment, and have a sense of humor. Following these norms will help you have an unforgettable time in this beautiful country, make friends, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
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