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There are many aspects to the Kiwi way of life, from our relaxed attitude
to our vast array of different ethnic societies, there is literally
something for everyone. There are of course some things that are typically
Kiwi such as…
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| Sailing on Auckland Harbour |
• The Americas Cup ( Boat racing )
• Jandals ( Thongs, Sandals )
• Silver Fern ( National symbol )
• Pavlova, kiwifruit, anzac biscuits & hokey pokey ice cream
(typical kiwi foods )
• Sheep! ( 39 million in fact )
Here is a good site with a list of typical Kiwiana things and their
description:
http://www.newzealand.com
Don’t forget to go to the official KIWIANA festival in March
2006 in Otorohanga!
Lifestyle is of course the number one factor for people migrating
to New Zealand, particularly from major European centres. There is
something very special about the way Kiwi’s do things, and of
course the safety and benefits for families and children. Lifestyle
is not necessarily a group of things, but rather it will mean different
things to different people. We have picked out some of the things
that will help you identify the kiwi way of life.
Food
New Zealand is known for its freshness in food. Due to its large country
landscapes, there are many farms and vineyards, which produce some
world recognized wines and fresh organic products. Most food is purchased
either through a super-market or locally at specific retailers or
fresh food markets.
In New Zealand you are almost guaranteed to buy the freshest fruit
and recently cropped vegetables, as well as some of the most creamy
cheeses and full bodied milk. We have very strict quality controls
on our produce and almost all retail food outlets will have a safe
food policy.
As well as super-markets and fresh food markets, there are numerous
service stations which sell petrol and food products (largely packaged)
on a 24-hour basis. While most of the larger retail outlets supply
alcohol (beer and wine), this has yet to become part of the small
retail and dairy (off licence) chains. There are of course dedicated
liquor stores across the country. Alcohol can be sold on Sunday.
Kiwi’s love restaurants and have a plethora of fine dining restaurants
with a large range of international culinary delights.
Standards in food
http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/
Food Show
http://www.foodshow.co.nz/
For an overview of some of New Zealand's restaurants or to find somewhere
to eat close to you, check out the following website. Remember it
is not compulsory to tip in New Zealand, although we do provide a
gratuity for great service!
http://www.time2dine.co.nz/
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| Waterskiing |
Sports
Kiwi’s are sports mad!! The All Black’s rugby team is
almost the trademark of New Zealand. You will find All Black’s
merchandise almost everywhere. To find out more about our national
heroes you can visit http://www.allblacks.co.nz/
We are also very passionate about sailing and have some very competitive
teams, as well as sailing for pleasure. As well as professional sports,
there are also recreational sports such as indoor snow slopes, indoor
rock climbing, swimming and soccer in the park. New Zealand has the
most spacious park grounds and sporting fields so get out there and
experience the outdoors.
Many people living on or by the water generally love the water and
the beach and this reflects in their lifestyle. You will often find
many yachts and motor boats cruising in the water as well as kayakers
and rowers in the quieter areas.
A lot of kiwis love the environment and want to spend as long as possible
outside and also take pride in recycling and taking care of their
environment and have a holistic community view. Family values take
a large place too!
For more information on parks and recreation facilities, visit the
website of your local regional council, who will be able to provide
specific and current information on local facilities in your area.
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| Maori Pa |
Language
The two nationally identified languages spoken in New Zealand are
Maori and English. However due to the expanding range of cultural
backgrounds within New Zealand, there are a number of different languages
spoken on a day to day basis.
In general business, official communication, public announcements
and schooling, the two main forms of communication are English and
Maori. There may also be translations in to some Asian languages as
well as German for particular tourist spots.
It takes a while to get used to the local terms and slang in any new
country, so here's a few phrases to get you started.
Jack up = to arrange something
Kneeknocker = small child
Sticking plaster = bandaid
Dreaded lurgy = cold / flu
Hard case = comedian
Wopwops = isolated area of land
Culture
There are a number of different religions practised in New Zealand,
by varying cultures. New Zealander’s are generally very accepting
of an individual’s choice in spiritual beliefs. If you are interested
in a particular faith or a member of a specific religion, you may
want to discuss this with other members in our forum. Please note
however that we will not tolerate and form of discrimination in any
of the forum’s from any member. |
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