In January we will travel to New Zealand to speak truth and reap a harvest for the glory of God. Please enjoy some interesting facts about this captivating country.
GREETINGS
Formally men greet men with a handshake. Less formally they greet with a nod.
Formally women greet women with a handshake. Less formally they greet with a light hug.
Formally men and women greet with handshakes. Less formally, depending on intimacy level they greet with a hug or handshake.
The traditional greeting involved people touching and lightly rubbing noses together. This is known as the Hongi, a formal Maori event.
GREETINGS
Formally men greet men with a handshake. Less formally they greet with a nod.
Formally women greet women with a handshake. Less formally they greet with a light hug.
Formally men and women greet with handshakes. Less formally, depending on intimacy level they greet with a hug or handshake.
The traditional greeting involved people touching and lightly rubbing noses together. This is known as the Hongi, a formal Maori event.
Haere mai – come foreword, welcome
Kia Ora- hello, thank you
Kapai- Good
Kei te pehea koe? How are you?
Tino pai-very good
Kei te pai-I am good
Haere ra- Farewell
Ka kita ano- See you again soon
Morena-Good morning
Pomare- Goodnight
COMMUNICATION STYLE
Great emphasis is placed on manners and politeness. People “hint” at what they mean if there is a risk that they may offend somebody. Younger generations seem to be less versed in these practices, perhaps stemming from a greater influence from American media. Overall, New Zealanders are very friendly and open-minded.
PERSONAL SPACE AND TOUCHING
When holding a conversation, people speak at arm’s length. They do not touch opposite sex collegues for it can be seen as a pass.
VIEWS OF TIME
Generally people are on time. Tardiness is seen as rude. It is possible that buses and trains will be 5-10 minutes late. People will call or text if they will be late.
GENDER ISSUES
Maori culture gender roles are clearly defined. Women cannot perform the haka (a war dance featured in video below) and generally will not speak in welcoming ceremonies but will perform the waiata (song) to welcome guests.
GUESTURES
Raising of eyebrows, accompanied by tilting the back of the head is an informal sometimes distant across the road greeting. As in America, pointing is not done with the index finger. Beckoning is done by curling up the index finger. A thumbs up shows something is good. The middle and index fingers are used to express anger or irritation at something. This may also be used between frineds as a way of saying whatever.
TABOOS
Extending the middle finger is rude. Swearing or making sexist/racist jokes is highly offensive.
LAW AND ORDER
The leagal drinking age is 18
MAJOR RELIGION
Angelican- 14.9%
Info gathered from…
