Footwear. New Zealanders are notorious for going around barefoot, but even we need to wear shoes occasionally. National favourites are gumboots - just kidding. You won't need these unless you visit a farm.

In New Zealand, the cultural approach to footwear is quite unique and varies significantly depending on the setting. In a domestic context, it is a near-universal social rule to remove your shoes before entering someone's home; leaving them at the front door is a sign of respect for the host's cleanliness. However, in a more casual or public sense, New Zealand is famous for its "barefoot culture." It is not uncommon to see "Kiwis" walking through supermarkets, local shops, or along suburban streets completely barefoot, especially during the summer months. This reflects the relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle of the country. In formal settings, workplaces, or upscale restaurants, standard footwear is expected. Additionally, when visiting a Marae (Māori meeting grounds), removing your shoes before entering the Wharenui (meeting house) is a mandatory sign of respect. For travelers in 2026, the best rule of thumb is to wear easy-to-remove shoes like "jandals" (flip-flops) and always check the threshold of a house for a pile of shoes before stepping inside.