Unemployment, which rose quickly in the wake of the reforms, peaked in the mid-1990s and has since declined gradually but remains a major problem in some parts of the country. Overall, New Zealand is a prosperous Western-style economy and is set to remain so. Australia is New Zealand's largest trading partner, and the two governments have recently established a completely free trading regime between them. Japan, the USA and the UK are the other major trading partners. Business wear is generally conservative and both sexes tend toward tailored suits.
Appointments are necessary and punctuality is appreciated.
Calling cards are usually exchanged. The business approach is fairly conservative and visitors should avoid the period from Christmas to the end of January. The best months for business visits are February to April and October to November. Many hotels also have facilities. The organisation is also known as Conventions New Zealand.