Drinking Etiquette

New Zealand's drinking culture can be troublesome. Previously, the government sought to enforce good behavior by closing the bars at 6 o'clock. As a result, there developed a culture of binge drinking, when individuals would consume as many alcoholic beverages as possible between work and closing time.

Even though the regulated hours are long gone, binge-drinking continues. This issue is made worse by a casual attitude toward drunk driving, especially in smaller communities without access to public transportation. Don't accept a ride with someone you suspect has been drinking if you have any doubts about it.

Additionally, drinking isn't just a problem for men. On a night out, women are almost as likely to overindulge. In social settings, you might sense some pressure to keep up with the heavy drinkers. In these cases, use your best judgment. Your drunken buddies might tease you for being a "lightweight," but they probably won't remember the night in any case.