{"id":734,"date":"2024-10-17T09:44:30","date_gmt":"2024-10-17T08:44:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/?p=734"},"modified":"2025-05-02T17:46:09","modified_gmt":"2025-05-02T16:46:09","slug":"new-zealand-culture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/new-zealand\/culture-guide.htm","title":{"rendered":"8 Things You Should Know About New Zealand Culture"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Known for its breath-taking natural beauty and its commitment to the environment, New Zealand is also rich in culture. Blending M\u0101ori traditions, European heritage and modern multicultural influence, New Zealand has lots to offer expats.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether it\u2019s the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle, traditional M\u0101ori cuisine or the country\u2019s love for rugby and the haka that\u2019s drawing you to New Zealand, it\u2019s important to understand the New Zealand culture and any differences with the UK on a deeper level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Table_of_Contents\"><\/span>Table of Contents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#language\">1. Language<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#maori-culture\">2. M\u0101ori Culture<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#religion-in-new-zealand\">3. Religion <\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#alcohol-and-smoking\">4. Alcohol and Smoking<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#social-etiquette\">5. Social Etiquette\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#cuisine\">6. Cuisine<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-typical-new-zealand-traits\">7. New Zealand Traits<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#kiwi-slang-a-newcomers-guide-to-common-slang-used-by-new-zealanders\">8. Kiwi Slang<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#moving-to-new-zealand-from-the-uk\">Moving to New Zealand From the UK<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"language\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Language\"><\/span>1. <strong>Language<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three official languages in New Zealand; English, the M\u0101ori language (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.newzealand.com\/uk\/feature\/maori-language\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Te Reo M\u0101ori<\/a>) and Sign Language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealand English has a few variations and it may sound similar to an Australian accent, but there is a distinct difference to locals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Te Reo M\u0101ori is spoken by over 150,000 people in New Zealand who have a dedicated M\u0101ori television channel and an official M\u0101ori language week. Attempts to increase this native language have largely been successful and the number of people who speak Te Reo M\u0101ori is growing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The New Zealand Sign Language is comparable to British Sign Language but also includes M\u0101ori words and has an American influence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"maori-culture\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Maori_Culture\"><\/span>2. <strong>M\u0101ori Culture<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The M\u0101ori culture in New Zealand is an integral part of the country\u2019s history and identity. The M\u0101oris were skilled navigators, who travelled from Polynesia to New Zealand over 2,000 years ago. Upon arrival, they established a community-based culture that was deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs and traditions. They believed in the concept of Mana, which is the power and authority that comes from one\u2019s ancestors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This belief is still prevalent today, and many M\u0101oris hold on to their cultural practices and customs as a way to connect with their ancestors and maintain their sense of identity. The M\u0101ori language, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.newzealand.com\/uk\/feature\/maori-language\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Te Reo<\/a>, is also an essential part of their cultural heritage. It is a unique language that has its own pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. However, for many years, the language was on the verge of extinction due to the influence of colonialism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most recognisable symbols of M\u0101ori culture is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.newzealand.com\/int\/feature\/haka\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Haka<\/a>, a traditional dance that is performed during important events such as weddings, funerals, and sports matches. The Haka is a powerful display of strength and unity that has gained worldwide recognition through the All Blacks rugby team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another aspect of M\u0101ori culture that has grown in popularity in recent years is traditional M\u0101ori tattooing or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tepapa.govt.nz\/discover-collections\/read-watch-play\/maori\/tamoko-maori-tattoos-history-practice-and-meanings\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Ta Moko<\/a>. These tattoos are more than just body art; they tell a story about the wearer\u2019s identity and ancestry. Each design is unique and represents a specific aspect of the person\u2019s life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, the M\u0101ori culture has played a significant role in shaping New Zealand\u2019s history and identity. It continues to be celebrated and preserved by both M\u0101oris and non-M\u0101oris alike, making it an essential part of the country\u2019s diverse cultural landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"religion-in-new-zealand\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Religion\"><\/span>3. <strong>Religion <\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealand is a multicultural country with a diversity of religions. Around 40% of the population follows Christianity, which is divided into various denominations such as Anglican, Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist and Baptist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hinduism is the second most popular religion in New Zealand with about 2% of the population adhering to it. Buddhism and Islam are other significant religions in the country with around 1% of the population following each. New Zealand is also home to various non-theistic and spiritual belief systems like atheism, agnosticism and pantheism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The indigenous M\u0101ori people of New Zealand have a unique religion called Polytheism. It is a belief system that recognises multiple gods and goddesses, each representing different elements of nature such as land, sea and sky. Although Christianity has had a significant impact on M\u0101ori culture over the years, many M\u0101ori people still practice their traditional beliefs and customs alongside their Christian faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, there has been an increase in religious diversity in New Zealand due to immigration from countries with different religious backgrounds. As a result, there has been a growing interest in interfaith dialogue and understanding among different religious communities in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The government also recognises the importance of religious freedom and promotes tolerance and respect for all religions through policies and initiatives aimed at promoting social harmony and inclusion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"alcohol-and-smoking\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Alcohol_and_Smoking\"><\/span>4. <strong>Alcohol and Smoking<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Influenced by its European heritage, New Zealand boasts a diverse alcohol culture. Locally produced alcohol is celebrated in New Zealand, with a strong craft beer scene as well as wine tastings. One of the renowned wine regions, it is heavily respected in New Zealand and plays an important part in social settings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar to the UK, pubs are seen as social hubs and drinking at sports matches is common. There is however an emphasis on encouraging responsible drinking in the country, by adopting strict drink driving laws.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In recent years, there has been a significant shift away from smoking in New Zealand, with less than 15% of the population smoking. There is increasing social pressure on smokers to quit, and it\u2019s viewed as outdated and harmful, especially in social settings. The government aims to be a smoke-free country by 2025 and with changing social attitudes, they are on track to do this.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"social-etiquette\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Social_Etiquette\"><\/span>5. <strong>Social Etiquette&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kiwis are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. They are generally open to meeting new people, engaging in conversation, and offering assistance if needed. Although New Zealanders tend to be laid-back and friendly, they do value personal space, especially at first meetings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Greetings are similar to the UK, with a simple \u201chello\u201d or \u201chi\u201d met with a smile or a handshake being the norm. In M\u0101ori culture, &#8220;Kia ora&#8221; is commonly used as a greeting. The hongi is another common traditional greeting where noses are pressed together. This is a sign of respect if you are greeted this way.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many social customs are influenced by M\u0101ori culture. New Zealanders, M\u0101ori or not, are expected to remove their shoes when entering someone&#8217;s house. It\u2019s also important in the culture to not sit on tables or desks or anything that\u2019s connected to food to respect the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iponz.govt.nz\/get-ip\/maori-ip\/concepts-to-understand\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">concept of Tapu<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cuisine\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Cuisine\"><\/span><strong>6. Cuisine<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealand\u2019s cuisine is a delectable fusion of fresh and diverse ingredients, drawing inspiration from its bountiful land and coastal treasures. With a rich culinary heritage rooted in Indigenous M\u0101ori traditions and influenced by its multicultural population, New Zealand offers a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the country\u2019s unique flavours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealand is famous for its flourishing agricultural industry, which is reflected in its cuisine. The country\u2019s focus on using fresh, locally sourced, and high-quality ingredients is evident in its farm-to-table delicacies. You can enjoy grass-fed beef and lamb, free-range poultry, and farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. The farmlands\u2019 pristine condition contributes to the pure and natural flavours of the food.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The M\u0101ori culture also holds a significant place in New Zealand\u2019s culinary landscape. M\u0101ori cuisine, known as \u201ckai,\u201d celebrates traditional cooking methods and indigenous ingredients. Immerse yourself in a M\u0101ori feast called a hangi, where food is cooked in an underground oven using heated stones. Savour the flavours of succulent meats, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all cooked to perfection. Experience the unique taste of k\u016bmara (sweet potato), rewena bread, and earthy flavours that pay homage to the M\u0101ori ancestral traditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-typical-new-zealand-traits\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_New_Zealand_Traits\"><\/span><strong>7. New Zealand Traits<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>New Zealanders, or Kiwis, have a range of typical traits that are often associated with their culture and way of life. Here are some common characteristics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Relaxed Attitude<\/strong>: New Zealanders tend to have a laid-back and relaxed approach to life. They value work-life balance and prioritise leisure time, outdoor activities, and spending time with family and friends. This attitude contributes to the overall sense of tranquillity and enjoyment of life in New Zealand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Humility<\/strong>: Kiwis are often modest and down-to-earth, displaying humility in their interactions. Bragging or excessive self-promotion is generally frowned upon. Instead, New Zealanders appreciate modesty, sincerity, and a willingness to work collaboratively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Love for the Outdoors<\/strong>: With its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, New Zealand offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. Kiwis have a deep connection with nature and tend to have a strong affinity for outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, surfing, skiing, and sailing. Exploring the outdoors and appreciating the environment is an integral part of the Kiwi way of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Resilience and Ingenuity<\/strong>: New Zealanders are known for their resilience and resourcefulness. The country\u2019s remote location and diverse geography have fostered a culture of self-sufficiency and problem-solving. Kiwis often display innovation and adaptability in overcoming challenges, whether it\u2019s in business, sports, or everyday life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Environmental Consciousness<\/strong>: New Zealand has a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. Many Kiwis actively participate in conservation efforts, and there is a collective sense of responsibility towards protecting the country\u2019s unique flora, fauna, and ecosystems. You\u2019ll find a widespread emphasis on recycling, renewable energy, and eco-friendly practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Multiculturalism and Inclusivity<\/strong>: New Zealand is a multicultural society that embraces diversity. Kiwis generally value inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for different cultures and backgrounds. They appreciate learning about other cultures and often celebrate diversity through various festivals, events, and community initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Love for Sports<\/strong>: Sports, particularly rugby union, holds a special place in New Zealand\u2019s culture. Kiwis are passionate about rugby and proudly support their national team, the All Blacks. Cricket, netball, rugby league, and football (soccer) are also popular sports in New Zealand. Participating in sports and supporting local teams is a common way for Kiwis to connect and bond<strong><em>.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"kiwi-slang-a-newcomers-guide-to-common-slang-used-by-new-zealanders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Kiwi_Slang\"><\/span><strong>8. Kiwi Slang<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re planning to visit New Zealand, it\u2019s important to familiarise yourself with the local slang. Kiwi slang is a unique blend of M\u0101ori, British and Australian English, and includes words and phrases that may be confusing for newcomers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Every day phrases:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sweet as<\/strong>: This phrase is commonly used to mean \u201call good\u201d or \u201cno problem.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Chur<\/strong>: This is a versatile slang term that can be used to express agreement, thanks, or appreciation. It\u2019s similar to saying \u201ccheers\u201d, \u201cthanks\u201d or \u201ccool\u201d.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eh?<\/strong>: This is a tag question used to seek agreement or confirmation. It\u2019s similar to \u201cright?\u201d or \u201cisn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dairy<\/strong>: In New Zealand, a \u201cdairy\u201d is a convenience store or a small shop where you can buy everyday items.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>M\u0101ori influence:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kia ora<\/strong>: This means \u201chello\u201d, \u201chi\u201d or \u201cthank you\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Haere ma<\/strong>: This can mean \u201ccome here\u201d or \u201cwelcome\u201d and is used commonly as a greeting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kai<\/strong>: This refers to \u201cfood\u201d or a \u201cmeal\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wh\u0101nau<\/strong>: Wh\u0101nau means \u201cfamily\u201d but tends to be also used to describe a close-knit group<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Related article &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/best-places-to-live-in-new-zealand\">Best Places to Live in New Zealand<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"moving-to-new-zealand-from-the-uk\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Moving_to_New_Zealand_From_the_UK\"><\/span><strong>Moving to New Zealand From the UK<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are considering <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/new-zealand\/moving-to-new-zealand\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/new-zealand\/moving-to-new-zealand\">moving to New Zealand from the UK<\/a>, 1st Move International provide faster, safer and smarter packing and shipping services. Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/removals-to-new-zealand\">international removals to New Zealand<\/a> service will see your personal belongings shipped to your destination of choice. We\u2019ll also take care of the customs process, getting your shipment through safely with our Fast Track customs clearance.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To get a tailored quote for your New Zealand move, fill out our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/new-zealand\/culture-guide.htm#quote-me\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/guides\/new-zealand\/culture-guide.htm#quote-me\">quick and easy quote form<\/a> and we&#8217;ll give you a free personalised quote. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Known for its breath-taking natural beauty and its commitment to the environment, New Zealand is also rich in culture. Blending M\u0101ori traditions, European heritage and modern multicultural influence, New Zealand has lots to offer expats.&nbsp; Whether it\u2019s the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle, traditional M\u0101ori cuisine or the country\u2019s love for rugby and the haka that\u2019s drawing [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":114221,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[20,19],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-734","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-new-zealand","8":"category-guides"},"modified_by":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/734","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/10"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=734"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/734\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":118991,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/734\/revisions\/118991"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/114221"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=734"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=734"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shipit.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=734"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}