What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Queenstown?
We asked people in Queenstown if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"In Queenstown, it's important to respect the natural environment, as New Zealanders take great pride in their country's beauty. Littering or damaging the environment in any way is considered a serious faux pas. It's also considered rude to not wait your turn in line, as New Zealanders value fairness and equality. When interacting with the local Maori population, it's important to respect their customs and traditions. For example, it's considered disrespectful to touch someone's head, as it's seen as sacred in Maori culture. Avoid making loud and boisterous displays in public, as New Zealanders generally appreciate modesty and humility. It's also considered impolite to be overly direct or confrontational in conversation. New Zealanders tend to be quite polite and may not respond well to aggressive behavior. Lastly, tipping is not customary in New Zealand, so you may offend someone by leaving a tip. It's best to simply pay the amount on the bill," remarked another expat who made the move to Queenstown, New Zealand.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Queenstown?
- What do I need to know before moving to Queenstown?
- How do I find a place to live in Queenstown?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Queenstown?
- What is the average cost of housing in Queenstown?
- How do I meet people in Queenstown?
- What should I pack when moving to Queenstown?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Queenstown?
- Will I be able to find a job in Queenstown?
- What is life like in Queenstown?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Queenstown?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Queenstown?
- What is the social scene like in Queenstown?
- What advice to expats in Queenstown have about housing?
- What are medical services in Queenstown like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Queenstown?
- Is the cost of living in Queenstown high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Queenstown?
- Why do people move to Queenstown?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Queenstown?
If you live in Queenstown, newcomers to Queenstown would love to hear your answer to this question.