Speaking NZ English
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Even native English speakers have trouble understanding the New Zealand accent sometimes! Here’s why Kiwis have such a unique way of talking. Learn about New Zealand slang and some words and phrases in New Zealand English that will help you understand our culture better.
The New Zealand accent
English is one of three official languages in New Zealand, along with Te Reo Māori (the Māori language) and New Zealand Sign Language. However, the way we speak English sounds very different to the way it's spoken in the USA or the United Kingdom.
Sometimes referred to as a ‘colonial twang’, the New Zealand accent really is special. Some people mistake it for the Australian accent but it's not quite the same – it's a little softer sounding and is said to be based on the accent of south-east England, where a lot of the first European settlers to New Zealand came from.
We've also got a lot of words in English that are our very own that even our Australian neighbours don't recognise!
Kiwi English
Here are some things you might notice about the way Kiwis
speak English:If you’re talking to someone and you’re not sure what they’re saying, don’t be afraid to get them to repeat themselves slowly. Remember, Kiwis are super friendly and are happy to help.
Kiwi slang
Kiwi slang is made up of sayings and phrases that have been passed down from generation to generation and often from different parts of the world. Popular with Kiwis, sometimes they don’t make much sense to people new to New Zealand! Don’t worry – with a little practice, you’ll sound like a Kiwi too.
Throughout NauMai NZ (this website) you'll see words or phrases with a dotted line underneath them. These are words or phrases that are either specific to New Zealand or potentially confusing if English is your second language. Hover over these words and phrases and you'll see an explanation of what they mean.
Common Kiwi words and phrases
Here are some other common Kiwi words you're likely to hear:
Common New Zealand phrases
Here are some phrases you’ll probably hear in New Zealand and what they mean:
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