If you’re a regular traveler and wish to explore more about the rich culture and history of New Zealand, or you’re curious to know about the land’s culture, you are in the right place. This article has information about the essential aspects of New Zealand’s rich culture.
Value, attitude, and lifestyle
New Zealand is among the most visited tourist attractions in the world because of the people’s welcoming nature. As a country, the people of New Zealand value tolerance, friendship, and kindness. The country upholds the freedom of religion and is open-minded to all religious beliefs, cultures, and values. Also, New Zealanders treat everyone fairly and respectfully in homes and public places.
The country’s people are generally positive and hard-working yet relaxed and love spending time with their family and friends. New Zealanders are also known as Kiwis who often indulge in the rich beauty of the country and love to explore their national sport – rugby.
Language and accent
Kiwis generally speak English or Te Reo Maori (the Maori language) and New Zealand’s sign language. They have a strong accent and speak quickly and, sometimes, a mix of English and Maori languages, which can confuse travelers. So if you’re planning to travel to the country, make sure to watch country movies, or soap operas, to get the hang of the language.
The Te Reo Maori is an essential part of New Zealand’s culture which is respected by everyone across the county, spoken primarily by the Maori community.
The Maori culture
The Maoris are the indigenous people who migrated to New Zealand centuries ago and established their culture there. If you’re a traveler living there for a short time, you need to know and respect their culture.
Tikanga is an official way people do things in the community, which, when analyzed deeply, helps understand them better. It is essential to heed attention to that as a majority of people in New Zealand are a part of the culture or hold great respect for it. Some of them are:
- Removing shoes before entering a residence
- Not putting hats on food tables
- Not touching another person’s head
- Not passing food over a person’s head; etc
A welcome ceremony called Powhiri is conducted in Maori meeting grounds called Marae, which is done to invite a group of visitors formally. Then, they follow a challenge sequence that determines the result of the person in the community.
Generally, speeches (whaikorero) are made in English and the official Maori language by older men of the two different groups, addressing the entire set of audience. After the ceremony, the visitors also present a koha (gift) to the hosts, who are then greeted by pressing noses – also called hongi. This is because they have strong traditions and value hospitality.