Many Maori have adopted western-styled clothing with the arrival of the Europeans and missionaries, but even for those who have clung to the traditional dress, changes have been made, most noticeably with the addition of clothing. Women began to dress more conservatively, for example the pari became a common piece of clothing and the maro has become larger and covers more skin. Likewise, men have added garments to their wardrobe and tend to dress more conservatively, although at certain ceremonies men often go shirtless.
The ethnic Europeans dress in a style not unlike that of Australia, Europe, or North America as western-styled clothing dominates and everyone seems to have their own individual style. Due to the weather and geographic variations in New Zealand the people dress in a huge number of ways depending on the season, their location, and numerous other factors.
As a visitor to New Zealand you are welcome to dress in nearly any style you desire, although nudity, even on beaches, is usually illegal. Try to dress for the setting as business situations may call for a jacket and tie, the beach will demand a swimsuit, and wearing long-sleeved pants and shirts to protect yourself from the cold, rain, wind, and sun in the mountains is the best way to go.