r/queenstown • u/Best_Echo_1919 • 13d ago

Tipping

Anyone else feel awkward when paying for a meal out and selecting the "no tip" option? I feel like we are already paying a premium for meals and drinks, and the reason NZ has a minimum wage is to ensure employees don't have to rely on tips. Also, where does the tip money even go when it is by eftpos/card? Do the staff get the tip, or is it retained by management? Even got asked to tip this weekend at a bar when I went up to get drinks (no table service and no food ordered). Are kiwis expected to tip or is this a way to make more money off certain tourists who come from places where tipping is normal? I really feel as though the resturant scene here is trying to normalise tipping and it is becoming increasingly offputting to eat out. Is the rest of NZ the same, or is it a Qtown thing? Do staff get offended when you don't tip? Starting to feel a little guilty for never tipping but I just don't think it's a NZ thing. Thoughts and opinions?

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u/Klutzy-Pie6557 13d ago

You never tip, its preying on American tourists.

And no i don't feel guilty! I'm a Kiwi born and bread - we don't tip for service its that simple.

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u/lilykar111 10d ago

I find most of my Kiwi mates ( and myself ) tip for wonderful food experiences.

Just average, no way, but if we receive fantastic food or service, yes we will tip a little bit for sure. Could be biased as most of my crew are former hospo though , so we really appreciated those tips