Discover
the key do’s and don’ts for travelling in New Zealand. Learn
local etiquette, cultural customs, and essential travel advice to
help you explore responsibly and connect authentically with Kiwi
culture.
• Greet with “Kia ora.” A warm Māori greeting meaning hello or thank you, showing respect.
• Respect Māori culture. Show genuine interest at marae and sacred sites, and always follow local guidance.
• Remove shoes before entering homes. This is common in both Māori and Pākehā households.
• Recycle and dispose of rubbish responsibly. Environmental care is deeply valued — “leave no trace” is a national mindset.
• Drive carefully on winding roads. Patience is essential on rural, coastal, and mountain routes.
• Follow biosecurity rules strictly. Declare food and plant items at customs to protect the ecosystem.
• Plan hikes with safety in mind. Inform someone of your route when trekking in remote areas.
• Support local businesses and artisans. Buying Kiwi-made supports small communities and fair trade.
• Use sunscreen year-round. UV levels are high due to a thinner ozone layer.
• Respect quiet zones in nature. Silence preserves wildlife and New Zealand’s natural serenity.
• Underestimate distances. Travel times are longer than maps suggest.
• Assume tipping is mandatory. It’s optional and only for exceptional service.
• Enter Māori sites without permission. Always seek guidance before accessing sacred areas.
• Compare New Zealand to Australia. Locals take pride in their distinct identity.
• Litter or leave food scraps outdoors. Protecting nature is taken seriously.
• Drink and drive. Alcohol limits are low and enforcement is strict.
• Ignore weather warnings. Conditions change rapidly in alpine and coastal regions.
• Expect fast inter-island travel. Ferries and flights are often weather-dependent.
• Feed wildlife. It disrupts natural behaviour and can cause harm.
• Speak loudly in scenic or quiet places. Tranquillity is respected.
• Māori culture is central. Traditions, language, and values are woven into everyday life.
• Equality matters. New Zealand has a relaxed, non-hierarchical society.
• Humility is admired. Modesty and fairness are preferred over showing off.
• The outdoors shapes identity. Nature is part of daily life, not just sightseeing.
• Whānau (family) is important. Community and connection are valued.
• Ceremonial protocol matters. Marae visits follow specific customs — listen and observe carefully.
• Environmental guardianship (kaitiakitanga). Protecting land and wildlife is a shared responsibility.
• Casual dress is normal. Even cities favour comfort over formality.
• Sport and events unite people. Rugby, cricket, and community gatherings are social anchors.
• Punctuality is appreciated. Especially for tours, transport, and bookings.
• Carry your licence when driving. Required for car and campervan hire.
• Fuel up early in rural areas. Petrol stations can be far apart.
• Book accommodation ahead in peak season. Summer and school holidays fill quickly.
• Use DOC campsites responsibly. Follow posted rules and permits.
• Pack layers. Weather can shift rapidly in one day.
• Expect limited reception in remote areas. Download offline maps.
• Campervan travellers should plan stops carefully. Overnight parking rules are enforced.
• Tap water is safe everywhere. Refillable bottles are encouraged.
• Check ferry and flight status. Weather delays are common.
• Buy travel insurance. Especially for hiking, skiing, or adventure sports.
• Travel slowly. “Kiwi time” values the journey over rushing.
• Explore lesser-known towns. Oamaru and Golden Bay offer authentic charm.
• Chat with locals. Kiwis are friendly and happy to share advice.
• Try a campervan trip. One of the best ways to experience both islands.
• Eat fish and chips by the beach. A classic Kiwi ritual.
• Visit farmers’ markets. Fresh produce and regional specialities shine here.
• See both islands. Each has a distinct feel and landscape.
• Look for glowworms at night. Many forests and caves offer free natural displays.
• Join community events. Markets, fairs, and sports days welcome visitors.
• Respect freedom-camping rules. Camp only in permitted areas.
• Seatbelts are mandatory. For all passengers at all times.
• Speed limits are enforced. Mobile cameras are widely used.
• Legal drinking age is 18. ID may be requested.
• Avoid hitchhiking at night. Especially in rural areas.
• Emergency number is 111. Police, fire, and ambulance services.
• Wild camping on private land is illegal. Follow DOC signage and maps.
• Respect geothermal warnings. Thermal areas can be extremely dangerous.
• Check weather before hiking. Rapid changes can be life-threatening.
• Do not handle wildlife. Observation only — touching is prohibited.
• Declare all items at customs. Biosecurity laws are strict and enforced.
• English is widely spoken. Learning Māori words shows respect.
• Internet is reliable in towns. Slower or absent in remote regions.
• Mobile coverage is patchy. Offline navigation is essential.
• Kiwis are informal. First names are used quickly.
• Don’t interrupt. Conversations include pauses and calm pacing.
• Humour is dry and self-deprecating. Teasing is friendly, not rude.
• Small talk is brief. People tend to get to the point.
• Ask before photographing. Especially cultural events or private property.
• Respect privacy. Open spaces don’t imply invitation.
• Express genuine thanks. Gratitude is always appreciated.