Doing business in New Zealand is a fairly easy process, thanks to a friendly yet professional corporate culture. New Zealand’s openness to international trade, lack of corruption, free-market economic reforms, and positive attitude to foreign investment mean that it is recognised as one of the most business-friendly countries in the world.
Its stellar reputation for business does, however, mean that there is a high degree of competition. Having an awareness of New Zealand’s business norms will give you an added advantage in the corporate environment.
Fast facts
Business hours
8.30 or 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Business language
English
Business dress
The business dress code in New Zealand is difficult to pin down, although appearing well groomed and presentable is highly valued. In more formal business settings, men tend to wear traditional dark suits, while women wear business suits or conservative dresses. A more casual approach may be taken in some industries.
Greeting
Greetings in New Zealand are fairly informal and consist of a firm handshake and direct eye contact.
Gifts
Gifts are not often exchanged during business meetings. That said, if invited to a colleague's home, be sure to take along wine, chocolates, or flowers to say thank you. Gifts are usually opened in the presence of the giver and should not be overly expensive.
Gender equality
New Zealand workplaces treat women as equals. As a result, women are well represented in senior and leadership roles across the country.
Business culture in New Zealand
In some ways, the business culture in New Zealand conforms to a typically British model in that it is formal, reserved, and conservative. That said, characteristically South Pacific warmth and friendliness creates a relaxed yet professional atmosphere.
Hierarchy
Although the general approach to management in New Zealand is hierarchical, with decisions being made by senior-level executives, ideas, input, and collaboration from all members of the organisation are highly valued. Formal titles such as Mr and Mrs are not commonly used in New Zealand, but you may wish to use them unless you’re told otherwise.
Work ethic
Business etiquette in New Zealand will be familiar to expats who have worked in Western corporate environments before. New Zealand businesspeople tend to favour forthrightness, honesty, and hard work over self-promotion and big promises. They are more interested in what someone actually does, rather than what they say they can do.
Communication
Although Kiwis can initially be reserved, they are generally friendly, hospitable, and helpful. Rewarding personal relationships are often developed between business associates.
When raising a point or responding to someone else's ideas, be direct and include supporting facts and figures. While a friendly atmosphere is prized in the New Zealand workplace, business decisions remain broadly unemotional and are motivated by the company's best interests.
You should expect some informal conversation before getting to 'the agenda' at business meetings. Sport is a massively popular topic of conversation, and you may want to have one or two complimentary things to say about New Zealand’s national rugby team, the All Blacks.
Meetings and punctuality
Business meetings should be scheduled at least a week in advance. They should then be confirmed a few days before they are due to take place.
Be punctual. Lateness can be seen as a sign of unreliability or even indifference. If possible, avoid scheduling meetings in December and January, as many New Zealanders will be on leave for the holidays.
Māori culture in the New Zealand workplace
If you want an added advantage when doing business in New Zealand, you should keep in mind that the indigenous Māori culture plays a significant role in the lives of many residents.
As such, while it may not be necessary to learn the intricacies of traditional protocol, displaying cultural awareness is sure to go down well with Māori business associates. Māori culture emphasises the importance of building relationships and of showing special respect for elders.
Dos and don'ts of doing business in New Zealand
- Do be polite and reserved
- Do get involved in 'team-building' exercises
- Don't try to prove your credentials by talking about them
- Don't make comparisons between New Zealand and Australia
- Do be prepared to form personal relationships with colleagues