Talking Like a Native Kiwi

When you’re road tripping through New Zealand, you want to feel like a local—even if you aren’t. If you travelled thousands of miles to New Zealand for the biggest road trip of your life in a campervan hire, embrace the New Zealand culture.

The best way to do this is by speaking like a Kiwi. What’s a Kiwi, you ask? It’s a nickname for a New Zealander, inspired by the native bird of the same name. Pick up some local slang for your road trip, and you’ll be hanging with the Kiwis like a native.

Phrases for Sightseeing

Your New Zealand road trip likely focuses on the beauty of the country, so you’re sure to see plenty of spectacular sights. Get road trip ready with these Kiwi phrases that’ll fit well into your conversation when you’re exploring. If you catch a stellar sunset, it’s not awesome, it’s “sweet as” in Kiwi. When your next adventure calls for a dip in a waterway, ask your guide if you’ll need to bring your togs, also known as your swimsuit. Similarly, if you’re looking for the best hiking routes at your destination, ask a local where you can go tramping.

Travelling Slang

When you’re on the open road, you can incorporate some Kiwi slang into your conversation as well. If a car passes you that’s driving fast, you can say “That car is going flat out!” One that’s too slow is a Sunday driver. Hopefully you won’t need to say that your campervan is munted, which means not working, but it’s good to know the term just in case. If you’re servicing your campervan, you might be asked to open the bonnet or boot—that’s the hood and trunk of the vehicle. If you’re looking for your next destination, ask a local which motorway to take, which is the term Kiwis use for highways.

Handy Phrases

Whether you’re dining, shopping, or exploring, these terms can help you sound like a native Kiwi. Perhaps that souvenir that you have your eye on is expensive. If it is, you can describe it as “dear.” If you need to grab a quick meal before your next adventure, look for “takeaways,” also known as fast food. When you do stop for a takeaway, don’t be surprised if you’re asked, “Do you want hot chips with that?” That’s the term Kiwis use for French fries. Or, you might want crisps, which is what Kiwis call chips, to go with your sandwich. Additionally, a dairy is a convenience store that you might want to find for a quick pit stop.

Everyday Slang

Some words will easily incorporate into your everyday conversations with New Zealanders and fellow travellers. Bro is the universal term for a good friend. Tell your bro you’re all good, which means It’s OK; thank you. Ta is a short but sweet way to say thanks to anyone who helps you on your journey.

Conclusion

Embrace New Zealand culture and incorporate this Kiwi slang into your dialogue on your journey. You’ll feel like a local, and your fellow travellers will surely be impressed by your knowledge. Even if by the end of your road trip you’re feeling a little knackered—that’s tired in Kiwi—you’ll have the memories of a lifetime and a little Kiwi slang to bring home.