Do New Zealanders not wear shoes?

People go barefoot. People go barefoot everywhere in NZ. And I mean everywhere. From the supermarket to restaurants and bars. During the summer months, shoes are just simply not a requirement.

Can you walk barefoot in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, it’s how people connect with nature. From the time they can walk, they do so without shoes. You’ll see people walking barefoot in supermarkets and around town, but mostly, you’ll see them in nature. When you come here, try to ditch your shoes as much as possible.

Why do Maori take shoes off inside?

Shoes sit in front of the door to the wharenui (meeting house). One explanation for this is that the dust from the marae ātea (courtyard), which is the domain of Tūmatauenga, the god of war, should not be brought into the wharenui, the domain of Rongo, the god of peace.

Can I wear jeans to a marae?

Stand at the gate or entrance of the marae. Depending on the formality of the occasion it is usual for women to dress modestly, skirts that are not too short and males to wear long pants. It is polite to arrive early and wait for hosts to acknowledge your arrival by sending forth the first karanga, the call of welcome.

What are Māori protocols?

Generally speaking, tikanga are Māori customary practices or behaviours. The concept is derived from the Māori word ‘tika’ which means ‘right’ or ‘correct’ so, in Māori terms, to act in accordance with tikanga is to behave in a way that is culturally proper or appropriate.

Is it safe to go barefoot in New Zealand?

Barefoot is more casual than wearing “Jandals” (kiwi for flip-flops/thongs). It is also generally safe to go barefoot in New Zealand. Venomous creatures or parasites are not a concern and public places are usually well enough kept to avoid broken glass, needles, etc.

Why don’t people wear shoes in New Zealand?

Many of the people don’t wear shoes in New Zealand. It’s not just the kids, but grown adults as well. They walk down the sidewalk and across paved streets and into shops completely barefoot. This isn’t because the weather is particularly warm. I would understand going barefoot in the hot climes of the tropics, but it’s winter here in New Zealand.

What does it mean to go barefoot in Maori culture?

Culture: In Maori culture, going barefoot means that you connect with nature. A wharenui (meeting house) in a marae (Maori meeting place) is considered a tapu (sacred) place. Wearing shoes inside a wharenui is an act of desecration to the tapu of the wharenui.

Is it bad to be barefoot all the time?

Being barefoot you can pick up a lot of dirt, especially on the soles and people think it is disgusting. People think shoes give you stability but in actuality, it decreases stability of the tiny muscles and ligaments in the ankle. For instance, it is very rare for a person who is barefoot all the time to sprain an ankle.