Kiwi-Nutz

First some Do's (Well worth remembering)

1.

Watch the Sun Index warnings

Purchase and Use 30+ Sunblock, you'll still get a tan.

2.

Carry your Driving Licence

NZ Citizen's are expected to carry their driving licence whilst in control of a vehicle. There's a $500 on the spot fine, as a gentle reminder.

3.

Get used to Bugs

There's some real wierd ones, the bush-cockroaches are by far the ugliest. Nothing that bites though, except the 'White-back' spider, I haven't seen any of these yet and I'm told that they are very rare in NZ.

4.

Talk to strangers

Kiwi's are by far the most approachable people I have ever met, 'trusting' is up to you. :-)

5.

Bring your favourites with you

Items I have missed big-time, i.e. available 24/7 in the UK.

• Marmite
• Walkers Crisps
• McVities Chocolate Digestives
• Silk Cut

6.

Request Ketchup at Mc Donalds restaurants

If you like Ketchup with your Maccy D's then ask. It seems that the National Favourite dip is 'Sweet n'Sour'. You'll get it with everything you order, even if you ask for ketchup.

7.

Drive everywhere with a full tank petrol/diesel

I must have been nearly caught out 3 or 4 times now. Yes there are heaps of petrol stations but NZ operates a 'Never one when you want one' policy.

8.

Watch for the perks of being a 'family' in NZ

The Kiwi's have this very up-beat approach to families and young children. There is always a family-friendly 'thing' going on. i.e. Auckland airport has an arrivals passport control post, just for families with children, how welcoming.

And now some Dont's ('Avoid' might be better)

1.

Leaving your shoes on when you entering a Kiwi's house

There will be no reprisals but it is just simply common practice to remove shoes at the door. PS It becomes habitual.

2.

Tipping

I'm not saying 'Don't Tip' but be sure that when you are tipping, it is an expected custom. You'll be surprised at the amount of tips that get turned away with a smile

3.

Flashing your main-beams

I suppose that I shouldn't be surprised at this one, as it is not in the highway-code, but it's a hard UK habit to break. But... If you 'Flashing' your headlights at another car, in order to offer to 'Give-way' to that motorist will result in a very confusing mid-road situation occuring. In NZ it is considered as a 'warning' of a road hazzard, not as a friendly gesture.

4.

Waiting for the 'Red' utility bill

Utility companies provide only one bill for payment. Should you not pay in the prescribed time then penalties are added. Effectively then it is your 'Red' bill, get used to it.

5.

Lighting up in public premises

Assume that a restaurant or bar will have a 'Smoking-zone'.

6.

Parking you car facing into the traffic

This infringement 'will' be picked up on by police patrol cars, you have been warned.

7.

Pronouncing 'wh' in any word as 'wh'

I've been a failure at using the correct pronounciations in NZ. What I have found out is that 'wh' in any 'Maori-sounding' word is pronounced 'f'. For example written: 'Whakatane' pronounced: 'Fakatane'.