Poll: Should tipping become common practice in New Zealand?

Tipping is common practise overseas but is not as popular in New Zealand. Photo / File.

Should tipping be common practice in New Zealand? It's an issue stirring up a bit of debate around the country.

Deputy Prime Minister Paula Bennett recently said: "Overall I think the service in New Zealand is good, I always tip for excellent service and encourage others to too if we want standards to continue to improve."

"Great waitstaff can make a good meal an excellent experience - say thank you with your wallet."

Tipping can be good incentive for staff but it is a practice that many New Zealanders are unfamiliar with.

However, Hospitality New Zealand advocacy and policy manager Dylan Firth said tipping was becoming more common in New Zealand, and customers should be encouraged but not obliged to tip for good service.

What do you think? Have your say in our poll below: