New Zealand travel tips

Maori culture, New Zealand

Here is some New Zealand travel tips and advice to help you fit in with the Kiwis:

Rugby
The Kiwis are crazy about rugby so make sure you check out a game and soak up the lively atmosphere.  Rugby is a big part of the culture in New Zealand!


Maori cultural sites
If your visit includes a stop at a marae (Maori meeting house) you’ll need to get permission to enter. It's customary to greet your hosts with a hongi – a traditional Maori welcome - by touch of the noses. Visitors to marae are often welcomed with a powhiri (formal welcome) and a wero (challenge) and it’s important to be quiet and respectful while this happens. Make sure you ask permission before taking photos.

Clothing
Kiwis are known for their laid back and easy going natures, something that carries through into their clothing - informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants, bars and nightclubs.In summer it’s a good idea to include a jacket or sweater in your luggage in case the weather cools, or if you’re visiting higher altitudes. It also rains from time to time so a light rainproof jacket or coat can be handy.  If your visit is between May and September, warm winter clothes are ideal and you’ll want to layer your clothing.

New Zealanders and Australians
Don’t confuse New Zealanders with Australians! A bit of friendly rivalry exists between the two cultures, which becomes apparent during sporting matches.

Sunburn
The sun is much stronger in New Zealand than it is in Europe or North America, so make sure you stick on a hat and sun block if you’re planning to be out in the sun for more than 15-20 minutes.


*The Small Print
We’ve tried to make this destination guide as accurate as possible but please double check the essentials like visas, health and safety, airport information etc with the relevant authorities before you travel.  STA Travel takes no responsibility for loss, injury or inconvenience caused as a result of this guide.  All prices listed are in the currency of the destination, unless otherwise stated.

Like it? Share it.... . .

  • Delicious
  • Digg
  • Reddit
  • StumbleUpon

Search and book

Airport Selection

Airport Selection

Site information

English

*Additional taxes/fees: sample fares posted on www.statravel.com are per person and include the booking fee. Fares are subject to additional charges including, but not limited to: September 11th Security Fee of up to $5.00 for each flight segment originating at a U.S. airport; Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18, depending on itinerary; Federal Segment Fees of $3.60 per segment; and foreign and U.S. Government-imposed charges of up to $400 per international round-trip flight, depending on routing and destination. STA Travel is the world's largest student, youth and budget travel organization specializing in cheap flights, hotels and hostels, student travel insurance, and the International Student ID Card (ISIC).

© 2010 - STA Travel, Inc.

  • Abta
  • Abta
  • Abta
  • Abta