Diplomats tell us what Kiwis need to know about their homelands.

The thing you probably know about my country is:

Halloumi cheese.

But the thing you really should know is: That it is an attraction for millions of tourists every year.

Over there, we think Kiwis are: Friends of Cyprus, due to the Cypriot Community of New Zealand.

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On a short visit, you should: Try the amazing cuisine and visit the beachfront cities of Cyprus.

On a longer visit, you should: Take a cultural dive and explore the archaeological wonders.

Our national sport is: Football.

The one food thing you really should try is: Grilled halloumi cheese and souvlakia (kebabs).

Grilled halloumi is a Cypriot speciality. Photo / 123RF
Grilled halloumi is a Cypriot speciality. Photo / 123RF

Make sure you avoid:

Entering Cyprus via illegal ports of entry. The legal ports of entry by air are the international airports of Larnaca and Paphos.

The weather is: Almost always perfect.

Best way to get around: By car.

A handy phrase you should know is: "Ttha ithela" ("I would like").

• Vakis Zissimos is the Deputy Head of Mission/Consul General High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus.