Etiquette in New Zealand

Everyday customs that visitors and newcomers often find useful in New Zealand.

• Greeting A handshake and friendly chat. At a marae, there is a formal welcome (powhiri); follow the lead of your hosts. A hongi (pressing noses) may be offered.
• Home Take off shoes in a home. Do not sit on tables or put food on pillows, which is considered disrespectful.
• Talk Try a few words of te reo Māori, such as 'Kia ora'.
• Dining Tipping is not expected but welcome for good service.
• Public Respect the land and take your litter away.

These are general customs, not rules or legal advice. They differ between regions, generations and families, and they change over time. For visas, residency and legal requirements always use the destination country's official government sources.

Culture and heritage in New Zealand · See New Zealand on the map