CULTURAL AND INTERCULTURAL MODES

OF COMMUNICATION IN
NORTH AMERICA AND OCEANIA
( WORDS, GESTURES, BODY LANGUAGE, CUSTOMS AND
ETIQUETTES )

SUBMITTED TO:
Dr. Priscilla F. Viloria
PURPOSIVE CUMMUNICATION INSTRUCTOR

SUBMITTED BY:
LEADER
LAMOSTE, DANIELLE JOY
MEMBERS
AJOC. ANNE MARIE
CLIMACO, LEISLY
FAMI, RACHELLE
HOSANA, RUBILYNE
SIONGCO, JOHN CARLO

COURSE & SECTION: BSBA HRM-1F DATE:

CULTURAL AND INTERCULTURAL MODES
OF COMMUNICATION IN
NORTH AMERICA

North America is the third largest continent on earth. On the continent, there are 23
counties and 9 dependencies with a total population of over 590 million people. In America,
English is the most commonly spoken language. Information is mainly conveyed by spoken
language in American culture, and guidelines are spelled out, indicating low-context
communication.

CULTURE (Communication)

 Americans are very direct communicators. They tend to convey their entire message
verbally, paying less attention to body language. People are expected to ‘get to the point’.
This does not mean courtesy is disregarded in communication, but it does mean that
Americans may sometimes miss nuances (such as understatement) in conversation or
some types of humor (for example, subtle sarcasm or ironic statements).
 Americans are generally quite enthusiastic, assertive and persuasive in their speech.
 Americans are not very modest (by an Australian standard) as boasting is not cut down
by tall poppy syndrome in their culture. People are expected to speak on their own behalf
instead of waiting for someone to tell of their achievements or success for them.
 Americans may speak at higher volumes in public spaces, however they generally do not
appreciate loud or emotional outbursts.
 Americans sometimes grow uncomfortable when social chat is punctuated with long
period of pause or silence and often try to fill the gap in conversation.

BODY LANGUAGE

Personal Space
 Most Americans have what they call “personal space “. This invisible space around a
person has an invisible boundary. Crossing it can make the American very
uncomfortable. Depending on your country of origin you may think nothing of bumping
 shoulders with someone in a crowded market or leaning in close to hear what a person is
saying. It may make the most sense to you to sit next to someone in an uncrowded theater
or a doctor’s waiting room. But Americans will go out of their way to give people space.

The OK symbol
 The OK hand gesture is a commonly misunderstood form of body language common in
the U.S. It involves making a circle with the thumb and pointer finger while allowing the
other 3 fingers to fan out. To Americans the OK hand gesture means “this is good”, “no
problem”, “I agree” or even “That’s a great deal” if they’re buying something. But to
some of us, this may seem to be the opposite. The same symbol is used to mean
“worthless” in the body language of many other cultures. In some cultures, it’s very
offensive. 

The Thumbs Up
 Curling the fingers into a fist and extending the thumb upwards is known as a “thumbs
up”. To Americans, this means, “I approve” or “good work”. In some countries, this can
be a very offensive way to tell someone to leave you alone.

Eye Contact
 Eye contact should be maintained directly. It demonstrates warmth, openness, honesty
and approachability. If you make eye contact with a stranger in passing (on the street, at a
shop, in a hallway, etc.) give a small smile or nod to acknowledge them. Continuing on
your way without doing so means your were simply staring or unfriendly, and is
considered slightly rude.

Physical Contact
 Generally, Americans are not very tactile outside of their families and close relationships.
However, cities that are more internationally exposed may adopt more physical contact in
their mannerisms. Touching someone of another gender – especially in the workplace –
can be misinterpreted as sexual harassment.
Nodding
 Nodding is used in many cultures and in those cultures it can mean many things — all of
which we can’t possibly cover here. But it’s important to realize that when you’re having
a conversation with an American, they will likely be shaking their head up and down
(nodding) very slowly. This does not mean “yes”, “I agree” or “I like what you’re
saying.” It is simply the way that Americans show that they are listening to you.

MANNERS AND CUSTOMS

 In general, Americans eat quietly with their mouths closed.

 Burping is seen as rude, not as a compliment to the cook.

 Americans like sweets!

 Generally, Americans have a more casual form of hospitality.

 Burgers, sandwiches, and pizza are eaten with hands, instead of utensils.

BASIC ETIQUETTE

 It is often considered impolite to ask a direct question about someone’s salary, wealth,
weight or age.
 People do not generally wait to be introduced and will begin speaking with strangers as
they stand in a queue or sit next to each other at an event. Non-Americans can interpret
this informality as too direct or even rude, but it’s simply the level of friendliness that
they’re comfortable with.
 If someone coughs while you are smoking, it is an indication that you should extinguish
the cigarette.
 It is impolite to pick your teeth without using a toothpick in public.
 It is acceptable to be a ‘fussy eater’ in America and refuse some foods without
explanation.
 Americans place a big importance on time, often saying, “time is money” to be spent and
saved like a commodity. Thus, punctuality is particularly important to them. Delay is not
easily tolerated in a country where everything is tailored to convenience as much as
possible.
TIPPING
 Hospitality wages in America are much lower than those in Australia, so waiters,
waitresses and service attendants depend on tips to make their living. Accordingly,
restaurants that offer table service do not include the service charge in the cost of the bill.

 Americans usually tip 15-20% of the cost of the meal as a general standard. Less or more
can be tipped depending on the quality of the service; if it was so awful that you would
never eat there again, you may leave a tip of 2 cents. Doing so shows that you did not
forget to tip and were bitterly unimpressed.

 Taxi drivers, hairdressers and barbers also expect similar tip percentages.

 Bell hops or valet parkers only expect about $1 as a tip.

GIFT GIVING
 Gifts are usually only given on special occasions and are almost always accompanied by
a card.

 People tend to open gifts in front of the giver, either upon receiving them or later along
with other presents.

 For occasions that require a gift (e.g. birthday, wedding, baby shower), a modest value of
about $25 is acceptable unless you know the recipient very well.

 Gifts that are given as a personal gesture outside of special occasions are often grander or
more heartfelt. For example, to reflect deep gratitude for a favor someone has done for
you, you may give them sports tickets or take them to an expensive restaurant.

 Token gifts may be given when visiting a house (e.g. wine, chocolate).

VISITING
 Arrange a visit before going to an American’s house. Do not arrive unannounced or bring
friends and family with you unless you’ve asked them beforehand.
  Call ahead if you will be arriving more than 10 minutes late to a small gathering of
people.

 People are generally expected to arrive to large parties 30 minutes to an hour late,
especially if they don't know the host well. It can be considered socially awkward to
arrive on-time to a large party where many people do not know each other.

 Being late is more acceptable to parties and large social gatherings.

 Avoid overstaying your welcome by remaining at an American’s home longer than

expected unless they urge you to stay.

Do's and Don'ts

Do’s
 It is okay to be open and proud about your success in America as Americans like to focus
on accomplishments and other positive things. This can sometimes make Australians
bashful or uncomfortable, but it is simply a way to encourage one another and is also a
part of sharing your life with others.
 If giving advice or criticism, be sure to emphasize one’s good points before and after
doing so.
 If looking to help someone, try to do so in a way that gives them the opportunity to help
themselves. Charity that is done indirectly or circuitously can imply that the person is a
burden on others.
Don’ts
 Avoid mentioning divisive topics such as gun control, the death penalty, abortion, civil
rights, etc. These conversations have rarely reached a resolve in the public sphere of
debate and can quickly become heated discussion. Similarly, talking about religion can
also be sensitive if you do not know everyone’s stance on faith. Some Australians can
underestimate the place faith has in people’s private lives.
 According to a recent Gallup poll, 9 out of 10 Americans are proud of their country.
Therefore, do not make fun of the United States. Many Americans would consider
themselves patriots, so mocking their country would very likely offend them.
 Never make racial slurs. Race relations in America are taken extremely seriously. See
‘Considerations’ on what is appropriate.
GREETINGS
 Greetings are usually informal, with first names often used in initial introductions.
 A handshake is the most common greeting when meeting someone for the first time or in
professional settings.
 Handshakes should be firm and accompanied with direct eye contact throughout the greeting,
especially in business contexts. Being the first person to offer your hand can reflect confidence.
However, be aware handshaking can seem overly-formal and awkward in casual settings.
 Many people hug in informal situations or to greet close friends and family.
 It is important to smile during greetings. Americans generally smile a lot and are likely to
appreciate when similar warmth is reciprocated.
 A formal introduction is not always necessary in social settings. It is sometimes assumed that
people will get to know each other as they mingle.
 If you are a newcomer, take the initiative to introduce yourself to those around you. Your
American counterpart may not always give individual introductions and expect you to do it
yourself.
 Many Americans greet by saying “How are you?”. This is usually a form of greeting rather than
an actual enquiry about your wellbeing. The common response is “I’m good, thanks. How are
you?”. Giving an answer that is deeply personal or less positive can make the situation
uncomfortable if you are not very familiar with the person.
 In opening deeper conversation, Americans often ask people about their occupation.

NAMING
 American names follow western naming conventions: [personal name] [middle name] [family
name]. For example, Jacqueline Casey SMITH.
 Most American personal names are chosen for aesthetic appeal. Many popular names have
biblical roots (e.g. Daniel, Michael, David, James, Matthew). Others are influenced by popular
culture. For example, female names like Tiffany and Crystal gained popularity as certain luxury
items with similar names did.
 French names are particularly popular among black American families (e.g. Monique, Chantal,
André).
 It is common for a person’s middle name to be the person name of a close relative.
 Some Americans address each other by their last name alone. For example, a friend may call a
man named John Smith just ‘Smith’ without including ‘Mr.’. A boss may also address an
employee in this way depending on their relationship.
 Americans may form nicknames for each other by picking out a trait or characteristic of a person
and using it as their social identifier. For example, if everyone in the room is from New York and
only one man in the room is from Iowa, he may be addressed lightheartedly as ‘Iowa’. Such
nicknames are only used if it is clearly in jest and the situation is casual. Improper use can be
interpreted as condescending. what do you do?”).
CULTURAL AND INTERCULTURAL MODES
OF COMMUNICATION IN OCEANIA
( WORDS, GESTURES, BODY LANGUAGE, CUSTOMS AND
ETIQUETTES )

In terms of landmass, Oceania is the world's smallest continent. Oceania is also

part of a continental region that comprises the Pacific Islands and Australia and consists
of 14 countries. While Australia is often referred to as a continent, this excludes several
islands and countries that are not part of Australia. The majority language in Oceania is
English.

“AUSTRALIA”

The People
Home to nearly five million immigrants from 160 countries, Australia is rich in cultural
diversity. Australians, or "Aussies," enjoy an easy-going lifestyle and are generally friendly and
relaxed. Modesty and equality are valued.

CULTURE (Communication)

 In Australia, one’s status or position in a conversation is not easily distinguishable by

their appearance. Therefore, communication is more direct and functionally-purposed to
convey one’s message with clarity. Criticism can be delivered vaguely in order to remain
polite and avoid conflict, but an Australian’s intention and meaning is usually apparent
through their precise word choice. They tend to speak very honestly, yet with reasonable
sensitivity.
 Most Australians have the unique ability to swap quite easily from a strong Aussie accent
to speech that sounds more refined. For example, foreigners may be surprised to hear
Australians talk to them in quite polished, well-pronounced speech, but fall into using a
strong locker accent around other Australians or when drinking.
 Australians speak with slang spattered throughout their speech. The relevance or
understandings of certain slang words varies between age groups and areas, but
Australians frequently shorten any words that seem overly complicated by using
 diminutives. Sometimes these are spontaneous inventions that are not commonly known,
but many are commonplace (e.g. “arvo” – afternoon, “uni” – university).
 Australians are quite self-deprecating in conversation in an effort to come across as
humble, honest and relaxed about themselves. Feel free to join in with the jokes by
criticizing yourself in a similar manner. That being said, avoid finding jokes too funny,
adamantly agreeing to their self-deprecating comments, as this can become insulting.
 Humor is used in much Australian communication, so expect some light-hearted joking
in most conversations. Jokes about situational circumstances are often used to lighten
moods or approach difficult topics in an indirect way. Australian sarcasm can be very
dry, witty and direct. It is sometimes difficult for foreigners to detect when people are
kidding as Australians do not always break from a joke to clarify.
 Swearing is more common in Australia than in many other cultures. Television
programmes are less censored and mainstream society is largely desensitized to words
that foreigners may find vulgar. It is normal to hear an Australian swear at some point
during a conversation. Doing so yourself is unlikely to hurt your chances with them – the
informality of it can actually make them feel more comfortable around you.
 Australians sometimes grow uncomfortable when social chat is punctuated with long
periods of pause or silence and will therefore try to fill the gap with conversation.”.
 When responding to a basic question (such as How are you?), Australians sometimes give
multiple answers with immediately conflicting meanings. If this happen, take the last
word they answered with as they mean. For example, “Yah, nah” means “no”, “Nah,
yeah” means “yes” and “Yeah, nah, good” means “good”.

BODY LANGUAGE
Eye Contact
 Eye contact should be maintained directly as it translates sincerity, trustworthiness and
approachability. However, it is important to break eye contact intermittently as holding it
for prolonged periods can make Australians feel uncomfortable. When talking to a group,
be sure to make equal eye contact with all people present. Conversely, Aboriginal
Australians are more likely to divert their eyes during communication. Direct eye contact
can be interpreted as disrespectful or confrontational in Indigenous cultures, especially
when it is made to someone older than one’s self. This may also apply to Australian
residents from cultures in which direct eye contact is similarly perceived.

Personal Space
 Australians usually keep about an arm’s length distance between one another when
talking, and sometimes a little extra between men and women depending on how well
they know each other.
Physical Contact
 People tend not to touch one another much during communication unless they are close
friends. Touching someone on the shoulder or arm to emphasize a point is generally
acceptable, but can otherwise be seen as a sexual advance. Women tend to be more
physically affectionate with one another than men.

Pointing
 Australians point with their index finger, however it is considered rude to point directly at
someone. Instead, they should be indicated to verbally.

Obscene Gesture
 Raising one’s middle finger or making the ‘V’ sign with one’s palm facing oneself is
considered very rude in Australia.

Beckoning
 Australians beckon people by waving them over with their palm facing up.

ETIQUETTE
 People are rarely criticized if someone fails to observe formal etiquette (e.g. forgetting to
dress smartly). Commenting on someone’s poor manners can be seen as overly formal.
 Moderate swearing is common among friends and is not always considered rude.
 Women are seen as capable individuals who can help themselves. Therefore, it is not
considered wholly necessary for men to open car doors (etc.) for women. Doing so is
recognized as very polite and courteous, but can also sometimes be seen as patronising
depending on the circumstance.
 When out to eat or for a drink, split bills equally by having people pay only for the food
and drink they’ve ordered. It is a common practice to buy ‘rounds’ of drinks while out
with a group. If it is your round, you are expected to buy drinks for everyone you are
with. Each individual who receives a drink will be expected to pay for at least one round.
 Being reluctant to part with cash or share food or drink is seen as ‘stingy’ if other people
have paid their share. Furthermore, asking friends to pay for you on more than one
occasion is seen as ‘scabbing’ and creates a bad reputation.
  Being overdressed for a gathering is sometimes considered more embarrassing than being
underdressed.
 It is considered impolite to ask a direct question about a person’s salary or wealth.
Inquiring about someone's weight or age is also highly inappropriate in many situations.
 Spitting in public is rude.
 If there is a line for something, always queue and wait for your turn.
 To call over a waiter or person of service, do not wave or yell. Instead, keep an eye out
for them until they make eye contact, and then nod or raise your hand. You can also
gently say “excuse me” as they pass by.
 Tipping is not necessary in restaurants or places of service in Australia. People rarely
leave tips or only do so if they received service that was exceedingly excellent.
 Always say please when asking someone for help or a favor or you will come across as
rude.
 Punctuality is important in Australia, and people stick to the appointments, engagements
and meetings they schedule. If someone expects they will be more than 10 minutes late,
they usually text or call the person to let them know in advance. That being said,
punctuality has more importance in professional settings than in social ones. Friends will
forgive tardiness so long as it is not a reoccurring pattern.

VISITING
 People usually visit one another simply for the company and conversation with the
primary purpose being socialization, not feasting. Thus, Australians sometimes find it
awkward and overly-formal when people prepare a large amount food for their visit or
are extreme in their hospitality during the visit. For example, they don’t naturally expect
a tour of someone’s house.
 Arrange a visit before going to an Australian’s house. Do not arrive unannounced or
bring friends and family along unless you’ve asked them beforehand.
 Ask the host ahead of time whether or not they would like you to bring a contribution
(i.e. food or drink). It is common to bring a carton of beer or some other alcohol when
visiting a friend.
 Avoid arriving early to one’s house.
 It is usually okay to be 10 to 15 minutes late to a small gathering of people. However, if
you are meeting at a restaurant, it is important to be punctual as people will wait for you
to order their food.
 Being late is more acceptable to parties and large social gatherings.
 Australians often host barbeques (BBQs) in which they dine informally in their outdoor
areas (e.g. verandas, patios, gardens) and cook meat on their BBQ. When multiple people
are invited it is sometimes expected that guests will contribute a dish to compliment the
meat (e.g. a fresh salad). This is sometimes referred to as ‘bringing a plate’.
 For parties or large gatherings, the host will tell guests whether they will supply the
alcohol or if guests should bring their own drinks (BYO).
  If you visit an Australian home, you may not always receive a tour of the house, and
many of the doors may be closed out of privacy.
 Avoid overstaying your welcome by remaining at an Australian’s home longer than they
expected unless they urge you to stay.
 To indicate that you have finished eat your meal, lay your knife and fork down on the
plate together. You may leave a small amount of food on your plate or clear it as neither
should offend your host.
 If someone ask if you would like more food, it is okay to decline or accept depending on
how hungry you are. Neither is considered rude.
 Offer to help clean up the meal with your host.

GIFT GIVING
 Gifts are usually only given on special occasions (e.g. birthdays, Christmas)
 People tend to open gifts in front of the giver, either upon receiving them or later along
with other presents
 Recipients do not usually expect to receive gifts of a high monetary value, but rather that
the gift will reflect their interests.
 Token gifts may be given when visiting a house (e.g. beer, wine, chocolate).

NAMING
 Australian naming conventions arrange names with the given name before the family
name.
 Most Australian given names are chosen based on aesthetic appeal, but many popular
ones still have biblical roots. More recently, it has been the trend for Australians to
choose names that they find uncommon. These are usually names that are unconventional
to Western society and are thus seen as ‘exotic’, or sometimes they are variations of a
western name with a different spelling.
 Australians form nicknames for each other by abbreviating the name to a minimal
amount of syllables (e.g. Barry becomes Baz, Michael becomes Mike). However,
Australians also create ‘Australianised’ nicknames that are not purposed for abbreviations
(e.g. Andy becomes Ando). These are often used within close friendships to emphasize
mateship.
 Older Australians may refer to others as “mate” or “love” without knowing them very
closely.

TABLE MANNER/CUSTOMS

 Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right
while eating.
  Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate
with the handles facing to the right.
 Keep your elbows off the table and your hands above the table when eating. 

MEETING AND GREETING

 Shake hands with everyone present upon meeting and before leaving. Allow women to
offer their hands first.
 Women generally do not shake hands with other women.
 Use titles, Mr., Mrs., and Miss when first introduced.
 Australians generally move to a first-name basis quickly. Still, wait to use first names
until invited to do so.
 Academic or job-related titles are downplayed.

“NEW ZEALAND”

CULTURE (Communication)

 New Zealanders are relatively indirect communicators; they do their best not to create
conflict and take careful measures to remain polite throughout discussion. This usually
involves making hints that vaguely communicate their message without ‘rocking the
boat’. Nevertheless, communication is not so indirect that one has to decipher it. New
Zealanders tend to speak openly enough that the intention and meaning of their words are
easily apparent.
 New Zealanders are quite self-deprecating in conversation in an effort to come across as
humble, honest and relaxed about themselves. Feel free to join in with the joking by
criticizing yourself in a similar manner. That being said, avoid finding such jokes too
funny or adamantly agreeing to these self-deprecating comments. This can become
insulting.
 Swearing is more common in New Zealand than in many other cultures, so it is normal to
hear people cuss at some point during a conversation. Television programmes are less
censored as well, thus mainstream society is largely desensitized to many words that
foreigners may find vulgar.
 New Zealanders sometimes grow uncomfortable when social chat is punctuated with long
periods of pause or silence and may try to fill the gap with conversation. On the other
hand, Māori tend to be quite comfortable with it and feel less of a need to create filler
conversation.
BODY LANGUAGE

Eye Contact
 Eye contact should be maintained directly and intermittently broken. People often make
enough eye contact to show their sincerity, but do not hold it for long a duration as this
can seem scrutinizing. However, be aware that for some older Pacific Islanders and
Māori, direct eye contact can be considered disrespectful and confrontational. Therefore,
if you notice that they are diverting eye contact with you, take it as a signal that you
should do the same.

Physical Contact
 People tend not to touch each other much during communication unless they are close
friends. Touching someone on the shoulder or arm in order to emphasize a point is
generally acceptable, but can otherwise be seen as a sexual advance. That being said,
women tend to be more tactile with one another than men. The traditional Māori greeting,
the hongi, involves both persons briefly pressing their noses together.

Personal Space
 New Zealanders usually keep about an arm’s length distance between one another when
talking. Men tend to maintain more space from each other during conversation than do
women. People in rural areas tend to stand a little further apart.

Head
 The head is considered tapu (sacred) in Māori culture and should not be touched. For
example, affectionately patting someone’s head can be interpreted as disrespectful.

Obscene Gesture
 Raising one’s middle finger or making the V-sign with one’s palm facing towards oneself
is considered very rude.
ETIQUETTE
 People are rarely criticized for failing to observe formal etiquette (such as forgetting to
dress smartly), so commenting on someone’s poor manners could be seen as pretentious
or stuck up.
 When out to eat or for a drink, split bills equally by having people pay only for what they
ordered.
 It is a common practice to buy ‘rounds’ of drinks while out with a group. If it is your
round (also called ‘your shout’), you are expected to buy drinks for everyone you are
with. Each individual who receives a drink will be expected to pay for at least one round.
 Being reluctant to share cash, food or drink is seen as ‘stingy’ if others have paid their
share. Furthermore, asking friends to pay for you on more than one occasion creates a
bad reputation.
 It is often considered impolite to ask a direct question about someone’s salary, wealth,
weight or age.
 Spitting in public is considered rude.
 Calling someone over by yelling “Oi” can be interpreted as rude or even antagonizing.
 To call over a waiter or person of service, do not wave or yell. Instead, keep an eye out
for them until they make eye contact, and then nod or raise your hand. You can also
gently say “excuse me” as they pass by.
 Though you may hear New Zealanders swearing often, it is safest only to do so in private
with family and/or friends.
 Punctuality is expected, so being more than 5 to 10 minutes late without giving someone
forewarning is seen as disrespectful.

VISITING
 Arrange a visit before going to a New Zealander’s house. Do not arrive unannounced or
bring friends and family along unless you’ve asked them beforehand.
 Ask the host ahead of time whether or not they would like you to bring a contribution
(i.e. food or drink). For parties and large gatherings, the host will tell guests whether they
will supply the alcohol or if guests should bring their own drinks (BYO).
 It is usually okay to be 10 to 15 minutes late to a small gathering of people. However, if
you are meeting at a restaurant, it is important to be punctual as people will wait for you
to order their food.
 Being late is more acceptable when attending parties and large social gatherings.
 Unless told otherwise, shoes should be removed before entering a wharenui, a traditional
Māori tribal meeting place.
 To indicate that you have finished your meal, lay your knife and fork down on the plate
together.
  You may leave a small amount of food on your plate or eat everything on it. Neither
choice should offend your host
 If someone asks whether you would like more food, it is okay to decline or accept
depending on how hungry you are. Neither is considered rude.
 Offer to help clean up the meal with your host.

GIFT GIVING
 Gifts are typically only given on special occasions (e.g. birthdays, Christmas).
 People tend to open gifts in front of the giver, either upon receiving them or later along
with other presents.
 Recipients do not usually expect to receive gifts of a high monetary value, but rather
expect that the gift will reflect their interests.
 Token gifts may be given when visiting someone (e.g. wine, chocolate).

MAORI ETIQUETTE

 Do not sit on countertops or any other surfaces that are used for food preparation.
 Similarly, do not sit on a pillow on which a person will rest their head during sleep
 Sites or objects that Māori regard as tapu (sacred) are not to be tampered with or touched.
 Always seek permission before entering a place that is a marae, a traditional Māori
meeting ground.
 Do not eat inside a traditional Māori meeting house (wharenui).
 The plural of Māori is still ‘Māori’, not ‘Māoris’.

VISITING A MARAE (Traditional Maori Meeting Ground)

 When visiting a marae, Māori hosts may perform a pōwhiri welcoming ceremony, which
involves a traditional challenge to test whether guests are friends or foes. It is usually
followed by a call to welcome, speeches and songs, and it is respectful to join in singing
where you can.
 After a pōwhiri, visitors are usually seated to eat at long tables. Seating is mixed up so
that guests and hosts can mingle and talk with one another more.
 Do not begin to eat until the food has been blessed or a speech of acknowledgment has
been made.
 Younger people often serve the guests while older people cook, and all who are working
in this way have usually done so voluntarily. Thus, towards the end of the meal, it is
appreciated that the guest gives a speech that praises the food provided and thanks all
who served in any way for their time and hospitality.
 You may be asked to sing, in which case it is considered respectful to sing a song from
your home country.
NAMING
 New Zealand naming conventions arrange names with the given name(s) before the
family names: [first name] [middle name] [last name] (e.g. Travis Sam WILSON).
 Naming is patrilineal, whereby children adopt their father’s surname.
 Many women also adopt their husband’s surname at marriage, however this practice is
becoming less of a traditional requirement.
 It is common for a person’s middle name to be the person name of a close relative.
 Many names have a British origin, while others may be drawn from the Māori language
(e.g. Nikau, Tiare, Ariki).
 As of 2019, Amelia, Charlotte and Oliver were the most popular English names. Nikau
and Mia (female) as well as Mikaere and Aria (male) were the most popular Maori
names.

MEETING AND GREETING

 Greetings are casual, often consisting simply of a handshake and a smile.
 Never underestimate the value of the smile as it indicates pleasure at meeting the other
person.
 Although New Zealanders move to first names quickly, it is best to address them by their
honorific title and surname until they suggest moving to a more familiar level or they call
you by your first name.

“PACIFIC ISLAND”
Religion
 Religious beliefs are an important aspect of life for many Pacific Island people and
numerous faiths and beliefs are represented across the region. Christianity is the most
widespread, and Christian beliefs and practices exert a strong influence in many Pacific
Island communities. Staff should be respectful of personal beliefs and community
structures relating to religion. In many Pacific Island communities, saying grace before
meals and offering a prayer at the start and end of meetings are normal practices.

Dress
 Most Pacific Island societies have modest standards of dress. These standards may not
apply or may not be strictly followed in urban areas or tourist resorts, but this varies
 according to the country. Across the region, a certain standard of formality is expected
when attending meetings, ceremonies and church services.

The following rules commonly apply:

Dress standards
 Dress is generally casual and informal, although somewhat conservative.
 Informal wear includes a sarong, also called a lavalava (Samoa), sulu (Fiji), pareo or
pareau (Cook Islands) or tupenu (Tonga).
 Men typically wear shirts and long shorts or pants. Women wear a skirt or dress (below
the knee) or a lavalava. Women in some countries may also wear pants or long shorts. If
wearing shorts in rural areas, it is advisable for women to carry a lavalava to cover their
legs when entering a village. Very short shorts and miniskirts are generally frowned on
across the region.
 Blouses or dresses typically cover the upper arms, though this may not apply in urban
areas.
 When meeting villagers it is polite to remove your sunglasses as the eyes should be seen.

Communication

 Expectations around gender roles and norms, cultural status and age are important factors
to be aware of as these vary across the Pacific. Learn the correct term or reference for
people with titles or chiefly status in communities.
 Pointing at someone, or pointing in general, is often considered rude.
 Pay close attention to both verbal and non-verbal communication cues and expectations.
These cues include tone and volume of voice, gestures used and body language, and
indications of what is considered appropriate or inappropriate behavior
 Obtaining pointers on cultural diplomacy, e.g. how to politely express a different opinion
or viewpoint is recommended.
 Learn how to pronounce commonly used words and terms, e.g. bula (mbula), Kiribati
Kiribas), and Samoa (Sāmoa).

Meetings, ceremonies, church services

 Dress is more formal.

 Men wear pants (not shorts) or a formal lavalava and a buttoned shirt.
 Ties are not usually worn at regular church services or most meetings.
 Women wear long skirts or dresses, as above.
 Hats are customarily worn in some countries.
In the home

All Pacific Island cultures are welcoming of visitors, and invitations to visit people at
home are not uncommon in most societies. These invitations may be informal and issued on the
spur of the moment, or they may be more formal, in which case it may be appropriate for a guest
to bring a small gift. Be aware, however, that in some societies reciprocal gift giving is the norm
– by giving a gift you may obligate your host to respond. Check the Country Guidelines, and if in
doubt, ask a local contact what is appropriate.

The custom of removing your shoes when entering a home is almost universal. Removing
hats or caps is also a sign of respect in certain cultural spaces or homes. Seating may be on chairs
or mats. Your host may need to unroll a mat, so follow their cue as to when and where to sit.
When seated, your legs should generally not be stretched out. It is polite for men to sit cross-
legged and for women to sit with their legs tucked beneath them or to one side. Women should
also take care not to expose their thighs when seated (a lavalava is useful for this). In many
countries, it is considered rude to stand above people who may be seated or to walk over them.
Check the Country Guidelines for an appropriate apology or other way of handling this type of
situation.

In many societies, it is common for drinks (and often food) to be offered to visitors as a
matter of course, even if the visit is brief or casual. In some societies, you may decline politely,
but in others it may be considered rude (see the Meals section below).

Greeting

Across the Pacific, friendliness and respect for others are highly valued, and a friendly
demeanor will smooth your way. When you interact with others, offer a greeting and a smile
before anything else. Always be polite and respectful, and include elderly people and children in
this approach.

Forms of greeting vary across the region, but in all countries using the local language to
greet someone is appreciated.

In many Pacific Island societies, looking directly into the eyes of the person you are
meeting or speaking to is considered rude. Try to be conscious of this when interacting with
others.
Meals

In some Pacific societies, an offer to share food may simply be an expression of

hospitality. In countries where this is the case, the offer may be declined courteously. If your
host is serious in inviting you for a meal, they are likely to insist and then it is appropriate to
accept. Refusing such an invitation may be considered rude, so tread carefully. Raw seafood,
such as fish, clams and occasionally octopus may sometimes be served – in many countries,
these are considered delicacies.

Meals in many communities begin with a prayer. In general, you should not begin to eat
until everyone has been served and you have been invited to start. If in doubt, follow the lead of
others present.

Practices regarding finishing the food on your plate (whether to eat all that is offered, or
leave a small portion) vary from country to country, but picking at food or obviously wasting it is
universally considered ill-mannered. Make sure you express appreciation to your hosts for the
food and their hospitality.

In most countries it is considered impolite to eat while standing or when walking through
a village.
REFERENCES:

https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/american-culture/american-culture-
americans-in-australia
https://www.pronunciationpro.com/5-american-body-language-tips-need-
know/
https://harrisburg.psu.edu/international-student-support-services/guide-
american-culture-etiquette
https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/australia-guide
https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/australian-culture/australian-culture-
religion#australian-culture-religion
https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/new-zealand-
guide
https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/new-zealand-culture/new-zealand-culture-
other-considerations
https://spccfpstore1.blob.core.windows.net/digitallibrary-
docs/files/4f/4f5c696b6b72f4ec50d33268cee3e8a1.pdf?sv=2015-12-
11&sr=b&sig=CLK2oj8BG%2FJ3bLSHgCyAE7wx9gjY61sAdUo1b8mLdII
%3D&se=2021-05-15T07%3A24%3A01Z&sp=r&rscc=public%2C%20max-
age%3D864000%2C%20max-stale%3D86400&rsct=application
%2Fpdf&rscd=inline%3B%20filename%3D
%22Cultural_Etiquette_in_the_Pacific_Islands.pdf%22