Interactions with the opposite sex might also be threatened.
"For example, whenever somebody came near a highly fragrant female and started to sneeze their head off then they cannot kiss properly," Dr Liang said.
It could also distract people from work and cause sleeplessness.
The Auckland Allergy Clinic said about 40 per cent of Kiwis were estimated to suffer from the condition.
Dr Liang said "hay fever" usually referred to a variety of allergens. People could react to pollen, dust mites and animal dander - not only hay, he said.
"It should be called allergic rhinitis, which means the allergic reaction of the lining of the nose.
"This actually is a body defence to try to wash out the things that irritate the body."
Sufferers should see their GP and, if needed, a specialist to ease symptoms, he said.
Fees for a specialist consultation vary widely among practices, but most people should expect to pay around $300, Dr Liang said.
Follow-up appointments would normally range between $120 to $150.
Victims should also beware of "cheap traps" offering a quick and easy cure for allergies.
"There are some people who claim to be able to test everything under the sun for allergies if you send a specimen of hair to an overseas laboratory.
"It is a charlatan-type of territory."
