So you’re off to New Zealand, take a moment and rejoice. Good for you. I’m sure you don’t need us to tell you what an amazing time you’re going to have, right?
You’ve seen the pictures, you’ve spoken to people who have already been and you’ve done your research to make sure you don’t miss out on the best adventures. So, now it’s time to brush up on what it really means to be Kiwi, here’s a light-hearted take on the ‘kiwisms’ you should perfect to blend in when visiting the land of the long white cloud.
DO YOUR MAORI RESEARCH
Maori culture is a hugely important part of New Zealand’s identity and it’s very much present in all areas of culture. If you’re heading to New Zealand make sure you spend some time in a well known Maori area such as Rotorua and embrace it.
DRINK BEER FROM A CHILLY BIN
You can probably guess what a chilly bin is… think of those big plastic coolers that you would take camping or on a picnic and that’s it. A staple of a Kiwi picnic.
SLURP A STEINY OR A MONTEITH’S RADLER
Two of the best bevies in the world, (say some, probably Kiwi, people), and both from New Zealand,Steinlager and Monteith’s Radler beer are both brewed in New Zealand and it’s kind of a right of passage that you while away an evening around the BBQ with a few cold ones in your chilly bin.
GO MENTAL AT BIG DAY OUT OR RHYTHM & VINES
Here in the states we have Coachella and South by Southwest, in New Zealand it’s all about Rhythm and Vines and Big Day Out. If you’re in New Zealand during festival season (which due to the seasonal difference is between December/January/February) then preempt your jealousy at missing out and book yourself a ticket.
SMASH SOME HOKEY POKEY
Get your minds out of the gutter; this is not what it sounds like – it’s better than that! Hokey Pokey is a New Zealand made ice cream with chunks of honeycomb.
GO BAREFOOT
In New Zealand, flip flops are called jandals seem to be everywhere, no matter what the weather was doing. According to STA Travel’s Global Marketing Manager, Ant, it’s actually more authentically Kiwi to go barefoot. So, basically lose the socks.
YES, BRO!
It doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from or what sex you happen to be – if you’re in New Zealand, you’re probably going to be referred to as ‘bro’… a lot. But, it’s a term of affection so embrace it and jump on that bandwagon!
BECOME A CONNOISSEUR
Get ready to get really picky about coffee…and pizza…and beer. Basically, nowhere on earth makes ‘em as good as New Zealand, according to our STA Travel Experts.
DEVELOP A L&P ADDICTION
L&P (Lemon and Paeroa) is a lemon flavored soft drink made in New Zealand and stocked everywhere on the North and South islands. It’s hugely popular and always delicious.
ADOPT THE PHRASE “SWEET AS”
Not sure what to say when asked just about anything? Then just reply “sweet as.” If New Zealand had a national catch phrase, this would most definitely be it!
Bonus tip: For extra authenticity, add “bro” at the end.
Take some time to perfect these tips with a working holiday visa for New Zealand. A working holiday allows you to fully integrate into a new society, sample a new culture and experience what life is like in a another country.
Plus, just in case you needed anymore persuading, taking a break between your travels will give you the opportunity to save while you travel and fund your next big adventure – sweet as, bro!
