Local culture in New Zealand is influenced by both British colonial heritage and traditional Māori practices. English is one of the country’s official languages, which makes adjusting to life on the islands significantly easier for many expats. Māori cultural heritage is important in New Zealand – learning local customs is a great way to make friends and get settled.
Cultural differences in New Zealand
Although locals are largely warm, courteous, and laid back, they can also be reserved, which may feel isolating at times. Families and communities play an important role in New Zealand culture – it can be difficult for expats to ‘get a foot in the door’ and not feel like an outsider.
That said, the Kiwis take the safety and upbringing of children very seriously, and you might be pleasantly surprised by how helpful and generous strangers can be, especially when families or children are in need.
Māori culture in New Zealand
The Māori people are a minority in New Zealand, but their connection to their ancestors, nature, the land, and their language, te reo Māori, defines the cultural landscape of the country. Originally hailing from what today is French Polynesia, the Māori are a tight-knit but welcoming people.
If you follow rugby, you’ll probably have encountered the Haka – a war dance that shows strength and communicates cultural pride. Other notable customs are the Hongi, a type of greeting that involves the pressing of noses and ‘sharing of breath’, and the practice of tā Moko, a type of symbolic tattooing that communicates a Māori’s heritage and personal history.
Outdoor lifestyle and sports in New Zealand
The country’s pleasant climate and beautiful scenery make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Fortunately, New Zealanders are passionate about sports, fitness, and nature, meaning you’re likely to have something in common with many locals.
While sports such as cricket, netball, and soccer are popular, rugby is decidedly the favourite national pastime. The national team, the All Blacks, is one of the strongest sides in the world, having won the Rugby World Cup several times.
LGBTQ+ community and rights in New Zealand
New Zealand is a LGBTQ+ friendly country. It is illegal to discriminate against anyone based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, and all individuals, LGBTQ+ or otherwise, share the same rights and freedoms. Same-sex marriage is legal, and it is possible to change your gender on your birth certificate, citizenship record, and any other form of official identification.
LGBTQ+ communities thrive in the bigger cities like Auckland and Wellington, and host frequent parades and festivals. It is worth keeping in mind that public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, regardless of your sexual preference or identity.
Women in New Zealand
Women in New Zealand are treated as equals – around half the seats in parliament are occupied by women, and the country has consistently ranked in the top 10 of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index.