At dinner parties, it is customary for guests to bring a bottle of wine. It is also quite common, but not obligatory, to ask 'Is there anything I can bring?' Often, the hosts will decline the offer, but sometimes they will suggest that you bring pre-dinner snacks, a salad, a dessert or perhaps after-dinner mints. Sometimes guests will be asked to 'bring a plate'. This is a local phrase that means 'bring some food'. It does not mean that you give a plate to the hosts. If you are asked to 'bring a plate', it is best to ask what sort of food is expected, since this will vary depending on the event.
Parties and the 'do'
If someone says "We're having a 'do', and hope you can come", this means you are invited to a party. If it is a 'do' for your workplace, then it is customary for the management to supply food and drink. If it is a party organised by a club or a group of friends, then it is likely that everyone will bring a share of the food and drink, or will 'chip in' (contribute their share to pay for it). If you are unsure what is expected, do ask - New Zealand customs are very flexible, so 'the locals' often have to ask questions as well.
