Tipping
Sep 7th, 2011, 10:22 AM
#1
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Tipping
I understand that tipping in general in Australia and NZ is unnecessary. However, my group of 4 will be having a private day long wine tour in the Barossa Valley and a 5 day private tour in New Zealand. Is tipping anything above the tour cost recommended in either of these cases? Thank you
Sep 7th, 2011, 02:10 PM
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Although tipping is not particularly widespread in either NZ or Australia there is a tendency to regard Americans as cheapskates if they do not tip for tours such as the ones you are doing and also in up market restaurants for good service, especially in larger cities.
Sep 7th, 2011, 04:12 PM
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It is really up to you and the quality of the service. You are already paying extra for the personalised service. If you feel they have done an extraordinary job, then a tip would be appreciated, as to how much - no idea. I don't think it would be expected. They may well give hints.
How rich are you and what can you afford would be more of a guide. Your guides will be on a reasonble wage (nothing flash but not poverty striken either)
How rich are you and what can you afford would be more of a guide. Your guides will be on a reasonble wage (nothing flash but not poverty striken either)
Sep 7th, 2011, 06:12 PM
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I think Australia and New Zealand are different around the tipping issue, in restaurants at least. In Australia in urban centres for good service in a good restaurant, 10% is typical.
New Zealand friends suggest tipping is not as common even in urban areas like Wellington or Auckland.
New Zealand friends suggest tipping is not as common even in urban areas like Wellington or Auckland.
Sep 8th, 2011, 04:19 PM
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I'm with Geordie - it seems like you're paying a pretty fair price and I wouldn't be tipping. The tour operator is probably in for some kickbacks anyway from the wineries and I doubt very much that they would be expecting any tips.
The wineries will be expecting some sales though!
The wineries will be expecting some sales though!
Sep 10th, 2011, 05:35 PM
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We understand from our family who lives in Western Australia that employees in the service and tourist industry are much better paid than the norm in North America, so tipping is not part of the culture to the same extent. Their higher wages mean higher prices for meals, etc. so if you do tip, don't go overboard and spoil it for the rest of us.
Sep 12th, 2011, 05:34 AM
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I just returned from Australia a couple of weeks ago, and none of the guides solicited, hinted at, or expected tips. In fact, I did ask several tourism reps I met with, and all of them said no one really expected tips except in fancy restaurants (and then really only in big cities). Double that for New Zealand; no one there expects a tip, even from an American.
Sep 15th, 2011, 08:44 PM
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I totally agree with you Melnq8, when in Rome and all that. But I guess what so often happens is that Americans tip where it isn't customary and that sets a precedent and then unfortunatley an expectation.
Oct 3rd, 2011, 01:41 PM
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tipping in Australia...I agree with the other posts. Definatley not expected. I used to work in the hospitality sector. Although not expected its was a lovely surprise when it did happen, I worked mainly in casual restaurants (not upscale or five star) and deli-style cafes as well as clubs. Although I can not comment on tour operators. A 'thank you' or a praise will be a nice 'tip' and if you feel strongly that the tour operator has 'made you day' even better then do remember the driver as well and make mention of this or perhaps advise as a 'team tip'. or post a review on their website - write a letter etc this will help the employee even more!!
no percentage but depending on the service and/or the time spent with you a few gold coins to $5 to $10 would be appropiate. reme,bering to take into account exactly how that person has influenced you holiday and your mood.
no percentage but depending on the service and/or the time spent with you a few gold coins to $5 to $10 would be appropiate. reme,bering to take into account exactly how that person has influenced you holiday and your mood.
Oct 4th, 2011, 03:23 AM
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surprisealot stated, "or post a review on their website - write a letter etc"
Hear Hear! One could also post a review here or some other travel fora.
About the amount: I feel that no tip but grateful thanks is better than a small tip. [I do not mean just saying not to worry about the change, which I think is different as it may be as much for my convenience as that of the service provider.] My experience is that service industry people in Australia do not give extra service with the aim of a tip but because it gives them job satisfaction. A miserly tip is an insult.
Hear Hear! One could also post a review here or some other travel fora.
About the amount: I feel that no tip but grateful thanks is better than a small tip. [I do not mean just saying not to worry about the change, which I think is different as it may be as much for my convenience as that of the service provider.] My experience is that service industry people in Australia do not give extra service with the aim of a tip but because it gives them job satisfaction. A miserly tip is an insult.
