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Queenstown, New Zealand | What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Queenstown? | Expat Exchange
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Queenstown?

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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.

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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.


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