Did you know that New Zealand has three official languages? New Zealand English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language. However, Kiwis are also renowned for their New Zealand slang which is a language of its own. Before you embark on your journey to New Zealand, it is essential to prepare yourself so that you can understand what the locals are saying!
Back in 2019, New Zealanders won an award for having the sexiest accent in the world. This is combined with their unique sayings, and your trip to New Zealand should be 'sweet as'. This means no problem or no worries in Kiwi slang!
She'll be right - A classic way of saying that everything will be okay
Chur - A way to say thank you or show gratitude or appreciation
Bro - Like Aussie use the word mate, bro is used the same way to address a friend
I am pretty chocka - I am pretty full
Wop Wops - In the middle of nowhere
Stoked - Extremely happy
No sweat - Don't worry about it
He's a hard case - He is funny
Snag - A sausage
Togs - The Kiwi way to say swimmers or bathing suit
Yarn - A friendly chat
Dunny - Another way to say toilet
Far out - Oh wow that's awesome!
Dairy - The corner store
You right? - Is everything okay?
Yeah, nah - No
Ay - A word that Kiwis love to throw-in at the end of a sentence
Bugger all - There's nothing left
Fush and chips - Fish and chips
Jandals - Thongs
Chilly bin - Esky/ Cooler
As well as Kiwi slang words, there are many Māori phrases to learn before you embark on your trip to Aotearoa (the Māori name for New Zealand). Did you know that the Māori created the longest name for a place in any English-speaking country? Can you say, Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu? It is a mouth-full but this is the name of a hill near Porangahau, south of Waipulurau in southern Hawkes Bay.
Haera Ra - Goodbye
Mōrena - Good morning
Ka Kite Ano - See you later
Kia ora tatou - Hello everyone
Kei te pehea koe? - How's it going?
Kei te pai - Good
Nga mihi - Greetings to all
Haere Mai - Welcome/ enter!
Manuhiri - Guests/ visitors
Haka - A traditional chant with a dance
Koha - A gift or present given by guests to hosts
Mā te wā - See you next time
Kia ora is used as an informal greeting throughout New Zealand. This phrase is used to say hello, express gratitude, send love and make a connection. It is a good phrase to start with if you would like to practice the Māori language.
New Zealand's landscapes seem to capture the imagination of many directors.
New Zealand is a place with friendly locals, a diverse range of landscapes and scenery, pure natural beauty, and unique wildlife.
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 0900 until 2100. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
