NZ customs

[Bugsyjnr]

Hi all,

I have just moved into my house in a new neighbourhood. My closest neighbour is very nice. One day, she came with some food on a plate for me as she had cooked excess. I have accepted the plate and ate it (delicious!). I have washed the plate and about to return to her. I would like to know what is the NZ's custom in such situation. How should I "return the gift"? Kind of odd for me to return an empty plate to her???

[dbonnett]

It would be considered nice to bake some biscuits, scones or something sweet or savoury to return on the plate - we have done that in the past for friends who shared their cooking.

[JandM]

Or maybe you have something from your garden to give - fruit/vegetables/flowers?

[Sun777]

You got some really nice neighbors ! Reminded me of one of our Korean neighbors in Greenlane, they bought a house besides ours (rental property) and first day dropped by with cake. We sent them home made cookies back

[Bugsyjnr]

Err....I can't bake, just moved into my house....there is nothing in my garden.....can I just buy some fruits?????

[girlwithanewf]

Err....I can't bake, just moved into my house....there is nothing in my garden.....can I just buy some fruits?????

Invite your neighbours round for a drink maybe. Tea, coffee, alcohol, whatever suits.

[tea drinker]

Mow the grass?
Walk the dog?

I'm sure your neighbour probably isn't expecting a 'return' favour but I understand your wishes to

Big smile and sincere thanks go a long way

Thank you note - for being so neighbourly and welcoming

Make sure the returned plate is clean