The best way to feel at home in a new place is to become one of the locals. Learn the way of the people, and you get comfortable in New Zealand.
New Zealanders are very kind-hearted.
They like to joke and smile and welcome opportunities to meet new people. Meeting and getting to know New Zealanders is essential to becoming a local. To make it easier to meet new people, try to be relaxed and open. Don't be worried about making mistakes with your English; for example, New Zealanders will appreciate you making the effort.
When talking to people in New Zealand, it is not appropriate to ask about some topics. Asking a woman (especially an older woman) about her age, asking how much people pay for their house or how much they earn are questions they will not appreciate.
New Zealand cuisine consists of a mix of different kinds of food influenced by different cultures. This blend of influences has created a mouth-watering range of flavours and food in cafes and restaurants all over New Zealand.
A New Zealander's evening meal often consists of fresh vegetables with either meat or fish. When having dinner at a Kiwi's home, the host asks if you would like a 'second helping'; they mean asking if you would like more food. You can accept if you would like more, but if you have had enough, say 'no thank you'. Your hosts will not think you are impolite. After the meal, your host will be happy if you offer to help wash or dry the dishes.
If you love delicious food, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere, you will definitely like New Zealand barbecues. Barbecues have become a tradition and an essential part of Kiwi culture. Try to attend one of these BBQs at a reserve or beach. During such events, you can witness the friendliness of the locals.
Tipping is not expected in New Zealand. People sometimes tip the waiter or waitress in an expensive restaurant, but tips are not given in cafeterias or fast-food restaurants.
In New Zealand, people under the age of 18 are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol, and there are heavy penalties for people who drink and drive. You are expected to pay for a drink in a bar or hotel directly after receiving it. The New Zealand custom of "shouting" means buying a round of drinks. When someone has offered to "shout" you a drink, you should offer to buy the next one.
It might be good to know that in most New Zealand cities, it is against the law to make loud noises, even in your own home. Using your car horn after 10.30 pm and before 7.30 am is illegal.
