Kiwification

photo credit: oskay
Kiwis, definitely more so than us South Africans, are into DIY. Perhaps it’s because there’s a lower barrier-to-entry, since Kiwi houses are generally made of wood, and not brick.
(It may also have to do with the high cost of labor - the minimum wage is $12/ hour)

Turns out we stumbled across our first truly disparate cultural experience: the game of 8-ball, or pool.

We played pool with some “mates” (kiwispeak for friends) at the Taradale Club last weekend. There was some initial confusion, as we claimed “stripes” as our balls, and they claimed “unders”.

“Under-what”, I asked?

“Stripes?”, they asked?

In South Africa, it’s common sense to keep your car doors locked at all times. I was in the habit of getting into the car, starting the engine, and locking the doors (with my elbow).

I’d feel vulnerable driving around with unlocked doors.

Why I stopped : It just feels unnecessary here. (And the locking mechanism in our current car requires more than an elbow!)

Here’s an amazing display of accents, courtesy of actress Amy Walker.

You might think it’s a little ridiculous, until you hear your OWN accent portrayed, very convincingly :)

Look out for the New Zealand accent, in between the two Aussie ones - it’s very well done, even the cud-chewing “tcht” of hesitation..

“Tā Moko” is the Māori word for the art of tattooing. The finished product, the tattoo, is simply called a “Moko”.

More effective and long-lasting (plus less maintenance!) than face-paints, a moko is more than simply asthetic.

It’s also, contrary to popular opinion, not simply to “look intimidating”. It’s a statement of one’s identity and genealogy, as a Maori. A moko is designed to enhance facial structure and expressions, so no doubt a moko would make an intimidating wearer look more intimidating.

There are a broad range of phrases and expressions that are unique to New Zealand. Here are 8 essential phrases you’ll need to know for Kiwi-to-non-Kiwi communication.

According to UltraCrepidate, New Zealand has a unique, uncomplicated “truthful” smell. I haven’t noticed a overwhelming smell of “truth” myself. “Politeness” and “friendliness” are in abundance, however.

New Zealander’s cultural immaturity, sensitivity, and poor self esteem have stunted photographic art, because of the lack of professional, critical feedback in the industry.

The beautiful and videogenic Miss-Verständnis runs a “Germification” sort of blog. She’s a Kiwi, relocated to Germany, and trying (like myself here in New Zealand) to get to grips with the local language and culture. In fact, we’re both Antipodeans. (I learned a new word today!)miss_verstaendnis_beer_wench.jpg

Miss V presents this educational and entertaining clip explaining the origins and oddities of the Kiwi accent. She has a collection of videos on YouTube, to which I am now subscribed. Enjoy!

photo credit: barto
Here’s an odd kiwi quirk I’ve noticed.. when responding in the very affirmative, it’s common for a kiwi to nod a few times, saying “yip, yip”. (Maybe it’s “yup yup”, but it sounds like “yip”…). I think it’s done as a preemptive way to answer a question, without waiting for the “full [...]