Etiquette:
Meeting Etiquette
-Not too formal/greetings are casual and relaxed.
-Handshake and smile is great.
-Prefer to use first names, even at initial meeting.
Gift giving etiquette
-Small gifts commonly exchanged among family members and close friends on birthdays and Christmas
-If invited to someon’s home for dinner, it is polite to bring a box of cholocate or flowers to the hostess.
-Good quality wine is also appreciated.
-Gifts are opened when received.
Dining etiquette
-Guests to a barbeque typically bring wine or beer for their personal consumption. Very formal barbeques may suggest that you bring your own meat.
-Arrive on time if invited to dinner; no more than 15 minutes late if invited to a barbeque or large party.
-Contact hostess ahead of time to see if she would like you to bring a dish.
-Offer to help the hostess with preparation or clearing up after a meal is served.
Table Manners
-Table manners are continental: hold fork in left hand and knife in the right while eating.
-Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with handles facing the right.
-Keep elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating.
Etiquette:
Greeting
-Casual greeting smile and handshake.
-Never underestimate the value of the smile as it indicates pleasure in meeting the other person.
-Best to address by their honorific title and surname until they suggest moving to a more familiar level or call you by your first name.
Gift Giving
-If invited to a kiwi’s home, bring flowers, chocolates, or a book about your home country to the host.
-Gifts should not be lavish.
-Gifts are opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
-The more formal the occasion, the more strict protocol.
-Wait to be told where to sit.
-Meals are often served family style.
Relationships and Communication
-Somewhat reserved, especially with people they do not know.
-Do not appear too forward or overly friendly.
-Respect people who are honest, direct and demonstrate a sense of humor.
-They trust people until given a reason not to.