Etiquette Expectations in New Zealand

The Māori culture is an integral part of New Zealand's identity. – Above, Māori women in traditional dress. 

I have always wanted to travel to New Zealand (or “Aotearoa” in the Māori language). Many of my school friends and acquaintances come from “land of the long white cloud.”Finally, I booked tickets to go, and I was not disappointed. When you land, you will meet and see natives from the island and surrounding islands, citizens with British heritage and migrants from around the world. Even before you leave the airport, it is a relaxed atmosphere, and when you go outside, you will be met with a clean environment, fresh air and very polite people.

The Māori arrived in Aotearoa by canoe around 1350, bringing their Polynesian heritage. Over centuries, their traditions flourished in the then isolated land. Their language, mythology, spirituality and crafts developed a unique character, distinct from other Polynesian cultures. The European exploration of New Zealand began with Dutch explorer Abel Tasman's arrival in 1642, naming it 'Nieuw Zeeland'. Not till 127 years later, in 1769, that the Englishman Captain James Cook embarked on the first of three voyages to the region. Following Cook's visits, European whalers, sealers, and traders began frequenting its shores, marking the start of ongoing European presence and influence in the region.

Kiwis, as New Zealanders are often called, are known for their laid-back nature. “Why are New Zealanders called kiwis?” you might be asking. According to newzealand.com “In the early 1900s, cartoonists started to use images of the kiwi bird to represent New Zealand as a country. During the First World War, New Zealand’s soldiers were referred to as ‘kiwis’, and the nickname stuck. Eventually, the term Kiwi was attributed to all New Zealanders.”

New Zealand’s stunning beauty. 

New Zealand is a place where time can wait. Dress tends to be casual, so one can confidently ditch the suit and tie, unless it's a formal occasion. Whilst travelling around I found that respect is key. Queues are important, and interrupting conversations is considered rude. When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, catch of the day (fish or seafood) or a home cooked meal. Take your shoes off indoors when visiting someone's home, a custom borrowed from Māori tradition.

Māori, the indigenous language, which is used together with English, nationwide. If you are going to use Māori, make sure you have the correct pronunciation and enunciation of the language, as you will be corrected and even scolded for mispronunciation. “Kia Ora!” is their greeting for hello. (You can check out newzealand.com for more about this amazing opening to start a conversation with a friendly local.)

The Māori culture is an integral part of New Zealand's identity. Here are some key things to remember:

• Tikanga: Consists of customs, practices, and values that have been passed down through generations. These are traditional protocols that guide social behaviour. While you won't encounter them everywhere, being mindful shows respect.
• Hongi: The traditional Māori greeting. It involves pressing noses and foreheads together. If offered a hongi, accept graciously and sincerely. See YouTube video on traditional greetings.
• Tapu: This signifies something as sacred or restricted. Be aware of signs or instructions regarding tapu areas, it’s important to listen and be reverent of the area. The Māori are deeply spiritual people, by showing that you have an understanding of their cultures show you are honouring the way they live.
• Marae: A sacred meeting place for Māori communities. Each marae belongs to a specific tribe, or iwi, plays a central role in Māori culture, serving as a place for meetings, ceremonies, and celebrations. Proper etiquette on the marae involves specific protocols - kawa and ceremonies – powhiri that welcome visitors and incorporate speeches, singing, and often a shared meal - hākari.
• Ta Moko: Is the name for traditional Māori tattoo. This type of body art is a sacred cultural practice deeply rooted in Māori identity and heritage that tells a story that connects them to their ancestors and community. It is common to see men and woman with tattoo their faces, arms, and legs. It is very rude to point and stare at anyone with these markings.

It was well worth taking a trip to this beautiful, welcoming country. I felt calm and at peace amongst the scenic beauty, culture and its deeply spiritual people. I was awed by their politeness and willingness to talk. Like newzealand.com’s tagline states: 100% Pure New Zealand, I wholeheartedly agree with it. (P.S. I am not endorsed by them, I just love their ad campaigns). Ka kite ano! See you later!

For many years, Etiquipedia contributor, Elizabeth Soos, has had a keen interest in cultural customs. With her European background and extensive travel, Soos developed an interest in the many forms of respect and cultural expectations in the countries she has visited. With her 20 years’ experience in customer service within private international companies based in Australia, and her lifetime interest in manners and research, she decided to branch out into the field of etiquette and deportment. Through her self-directed studies and by completing the Train-The-Trainer’s course offered by Emma Dupont’s School of Etiquette in London and by Guillaume Rue de Bernadac at Academie de Bernadac based in Paris and Shanghai, she founded Auersmont School of Etiquette. Elizabeth is currently traveling throughout India and brushing up on her Hindi.

www.auersmont.com | +61 466 344 331 | auersmont@gmail.com

 🍽️Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia