New Zealand is known for its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and, more recently, its thriving coffee culture. Cafes across the country are often more than just places to grab a flat white; they are vibrant hubs where people work, study, or catch up with friends. If you’re a digital nomad or remote worker planning to set up shop in a Kiwi café, it’s essential to know the unspoken rules to ensure you’re a welcome guest. Here’s a comprehensive guide to café etiquette in New Zealand, along with tips on what not to do.
Why work in a cafe?
New Zealand’s cafes are renowned for their cozy atmospheres, excellent coffee, and free Wi-Fi. Whether you’re in bustling Auckland or a quiet town like Nelson, cafes provide an inspiring environment for productivity. Here are some reasons why working in a cafe might be the perfect choice for you:
- Great coffee: New Zealand takes pride in its coffee culture, offering everything from classic flat whites to specialty brews.
- Welcoming spaces: Most cafes are designed to be inviting, with comfortable seating and warm lighting.
- Free Wi-Fi: Many cafes offer reliable internet, making them ideal for remote work.
- Networking opportunities: Cafes can be great spots to meet like-minded professionals or even locals.
However, with these benefits comes a responsibility to respect the space and the people who frequent it.
Cafe Etiquette: The Do’s
1. Choose the right café
Not all cafes are created equal for remote work. Look for places with ample seating, power outlets, and a laid-back vibe. Avoid peak meal times at smaller cafes to ensure you’re not taking up valuable space.
2. Buy something—And keep buying
If you plan to work in a café, it’s courteous to make a purchase. If you sit at café seating (regardless if its indoors or outdoors) without purchasing anything, you will be asked to make a purchase or to leave as seating is reserved for customers only.
A good rule of thumb is to start with purchasing a coffee and a snack/meal to give you up to an hour of table time. Purchasing a coffee or other drink ever half hour after that would then be most courteous.
If you are not ok with doing this, then using a café for a workspace probably isn’t for you. Paying for food or goods justifies your presence and most importantly supports the business.
3. Be mindful of noise
Keep your phone on silent and use headphones for calls or listening to music. If you need to take a video call, step outside or find a quieter spot.
4. Clean up after yourself
New Zealanders value tidiness and respect for shared spaces. Dispose of your trash, return plates and cups to the counter and leave your table clean for the next customer.
5. Respect time limits
Some cafes have signage indicating time limits for table use during busy periods. Even if there’s no explicit rule, it’s courteous to move on if the café is crowded. Peak times would be around 9am, 12pm and 3pm.
What not to do: Common mistakes
1. Hogging tables
Avoid sprawling across a table meant for four people if you’re working solo, especially during busy hours. Choose a smaller table and keep your belongings compact.
2. Camping without buying
Working for hours without ordering anything or nursing a single coffee all day is a surefire way to irritate staff and fellow patrons.
3. Overstaying during peak times
If the cafe is packed and people are waiting for tables, consider moving to a less busy location or taking a break from work.
4. Excessive power use
While many cafes offer power outlets, using them excessively without purchasing enough or blocking access for others can be seen as inconsiderate.
5. Ignoring social cues
If staff seem to be tidying your table repeatedly or if the cafe turns off its Wi-Fi, it’s a sign they’d prefer you to leave.
Working in a cafe in New Zealand can be a delightful experience if you respect the space and adhere to local etiquette. By supporting the business, being mindful of your impact, and choosing the right locations, you’ll find cafes to be an excellent extension of your office. So grab your laptop, order a flat white, and enjoy the unique cafe culture New Zealand has to offer.
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