Different lifestyles and cultures
Watch the video on how studying in New Zealand is unique.
Some Malaysian students made a list of interesting characteristics of the Kiwi lifestyle. Here is their list:
- Kiwis eat rice with a fork instead of a spoon. They brush their teeth after breakfast. They don’t rinse their cutlery after scrubbing it in hot water filled with soap. (Note: detergents are biodegradable in New Zealand. You won’t die from them!).
- Marmite/Vegemite does NOT taste like chocolate.
- The 21st birthday is celebrated as a big event by kiwis.
- Kiwis like to hassle each other, and that usually forms the basis for friendship. (Teasing someone is often a way of being friendly!). They walk barefoot (without shoes) around town, but they wear their shoes indoors.
- Kiwis are interested in rugby, tramping, cricket, reading, TV, music, and movies.
- Most kiwis are shy and prefer it if you approach them first. And, finally, space and privacy are important to most Kiwis.
