I'm not going to write about how cute my cat is being. He's being hideously sooky after his little holiday at Blarney's place. Making it even more fun, he's decided it's cold enough to sleep with me again. I woke up this morning with him cuddled up next to me and Manky Mouse (his aptly named favourite toy) on my pillow. Thanks, mate.
No, I'm going to provide a few of my observations about New Zealand. Not that I'm unaware of this place. I've been over "The Ditch", also known as the Tasman Sea, ten or twelve times - but mostly to the South Island. Geetangeli lives in Christchurch. I make a point of visiting. There's a difference between the North and South Islands
In saying this, New Zealand is not really a foreign country, even if it is classed as one thanks to the use of my passport. I mean, so much is familiar. The electricity sockets are the same. They drive on the same side of the road. The food is similar, if not the same, coming from, similar British roots. Yet, there are some differences that I saw, and rather liked from my short stay in Auckland.
1) People seem to be universally nice
Sure, people are nice all over the world, but as Canadians are known as the nicer cousins to Americans, New Zealand seems to have similar relationship. People appear to be universally welcoming. Maybe a little quieter, but welcoming. I'd heard some things about people from Auckland - akin to how people from Melbourne view people from Sydney. It didn't make a difference.
2) Walking through groups of people
Maybe it's a big city thing, but randos seem to walk right through groups of people. How rude? It was noticeable while walking down Queen Street.
3) Their National Anthem is much, much nicer than ours
Have a listen to this. It's sung in both Maori and English, and it doesn't contain the word 'girt'. It goes to show that a National Anthem can be both stirring and lovely.
4) The incorporation of the Maori language around the country
Another great thing New Zealand does better than Australia. We're about 50 years behind them. I really like the way signs and words are in both languages. It gives a sense of belonging for all.
And they've got some great words, like whanau (Friends and family), kia ora (g'day) and my favourite, whakeparu (toilet). It's great being a part of this.
5) The food and coffee punch above their weight
Kiwis like their food and coffee and it's lovely to be a part of the culture. Saying this, a lot of my eating was done in the refectory of a Freemason's hall where and excellent CWA (Country Women's Institute) spread was provided. Asparagus rolls! I'm happy.
6) Petrol prices are worse than here
And don't get me started on what they do with diesel cars and the extra tax they have to pay. If they had a scheme like this over here there would be civil war.
7) Feijoas
They are everywhere. Wherever you go, there seemed to be a box of feijoas in a cardboard box in the lobby. They must be in season. I love the soda you used to be able to get.
8) Whittaker's Chocolate
Have some spare New Zealand dollars at the airport. Spend it on Whittaker's chocolate. My favourite is Jelly Tip - Geetangeli always brings me some over when she's about. it's addictive.
Okay, I best be off - the cat wants to go to bed.
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