We have been here for nearly two months so I feel it appropriate to note some observations on things that are uniquely Kiwi. I am certainly not an authority but have logged enough hours on the roads and in an amongst the locals that I have developed a well-founded and easily substantiated opinion.
What Sign?
I am learning that it is just assumed that everyone in New Zealand knows exactly where they are going. Even the GPS gives you a seconds’ notice that you need to turn. Nothing is properly marked so you are literally doing loops trying to sort out where to get into parking lots and how to enter buildings. Not. Exaggerating.
Itty Bitty Parking Spots
ITTY. You can barely open your door once you are parked and I can assume the same for those next to me. WHY, parking Gods, can’t you give me a little more room?!?
Wanna be Friends?
Kiwis are among THE most friendly and inclusive and welcoming people I have ever met (John Fisher Public School family aside). I attended a school dinner on my own as Dave was travelling last week and people went out of their way to reach across the table to welcome me to the community. At pick up and drop offs for playdates, it is an instant social – parents come on in and will stay as long as they can. None of this ‘at the door’ kid collection.
Race Relations
So this is one I may never understand or warm up to as Canadians HAVE to be among the most politically correct lot on the planet but Kiwis are very loose lipped about racial stereotypes and slurs. Yikes. I was at that dinner last week and the fellow across from me dropped the N-word without flinching. And real estate agents will tell you to your face whether or not you are the right race for the house you are looking at – in front of others who may be of a race that is not welcome in the neighborhood.
Sizing it Up
You know how in the US, someone who is probably a true size 8 can squeeze into a US 2 because the American marketing machine is a hot mess of lies? Well…it is honest engine in New Zealand and Australia. Guess what? An 8 IS AN 8 here. It sits somewhere between a small and a medium dependent on the make. They don’t even have a 2. Sizing starts at 6 and goes to 14 in most shops – which would be a extra large. I think it is refreshing. Lying to yourself DOES NOT change your size.
Language!!!
They love to swear. Love it. And crass, heavy swearing. Lots of four letter words – some beginning with letters that are not s or f. Hard core.
I Hate Real Estate Agents (except Susan Bandler)
This is less observation and more fact.