Yup, I think that’s a nice thing! But I (Nick) have just found USA and NZ kinda to the extremes on returns/exchanges. For example, my rain coat is truly 100% faulty. If I was in America, I would bring it into the store and they would instantly give me a new one in exchange for the faulty one. In NZ, I’ve been working with this company’s return department and they said they wanted to do tests on my jacket before they make a decision and it should take less than 10 days... they have now had my jacket for almost 60 days, rarely respond to my emails when I ask for an update, etc... I’m sure that isn’t every company here in NZ, but that’s the only exchange I’ve tried to make so I guess my only experience to make my judgement on 🤷🏻♂️
@@GoandLove Try inland Oamarama -Twizel region too around summer at canal area. Oamaru is cheap, weather mild and best as it's central to everywhere in South island. Gore and Southland is pretty cool open country. Maniatoto, Wipiata, Ranfurly not bad but from Macraes to Middlemarch is nice but cold in winter. Population very low.
@conmanumber1 aw yea, thanks!!! We’ve done a fair amount of exploring around but haven’t been to all of those places! But I’ve now done a bunch of fishing at the Twizel/Tekapo Canals and that’s one of my better viewed videos if interested: th-cam.com/video/HKzKqr41yMQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JyWQ4aJ4n-AvII4A
Good and interesting video! I love the way you reply to every comment, and are so 'understanding' about those that are sometimes a little contentious! What many people seem to forget is that even though we share a common language we are still a foreign country, as foreign in some ways as many non English speaking countries.
Really appreciate the kind comment!!! Yes, similar in SO many ways, and SOOOO different in other ways. Today, I learned what a “ladybird” was 😂😂 I always thought people were actually talking about a girl bird 😂 We call them LadyBugs in America 🥰
Word on the street is that the NZ boarders won’t be open until late 2022/2023, but we’ll see! I’m sure you’ll love it here, it’s pretty hard to complain 😍
New Zealand is overrun with crime and the police are slow, soft, incompetent and the prison terms are short & sweet for the bad guys!… There are lots of videos on TH-cam about crime in New Zealand and a lot of it by Pacific Islander gangs!
I spent 12 years living in the USA. To this very day I cannot understand why American's want to make video's about the differences of our 2 countries. Every country has their differences. Why talk about it. While your here have a good time, is what it is all about.
@@mauricebrown9094 Nick is American 🇺🇸 Naomi is a Kiwi 🇳🇿 and we live in both countries so it’s fun to compare the differences. Thanks for commenting and watching!
Thank you guys for your comments on differences of 2 countries. USA is not my dream country but its NZ & i wanna migrate in NZ so bad soon once borders are open. NZ is very nice, very open, very friendly & perfect work life balance unlike USA. Thank you again guys & great job Love NZ forever 🇳🇿💖😎✌️
Hey guys, nice video. There is a real mexican food restaurat in Auclkand named Besos Latinos It's run by a mexican couple. Her owner has a TH-cam channel named Latin kiwi.
New Zealands' govt institutions are certainly nicer to deal with, compared with their American counterparts, for sure. Although I'll add that local councils in NZ have become increasingly authoritarian against the people that they are supposed to serve. One of my sisters built a house there and a compliance nerd from the council didn't like that he could see her white louvers from the street. Now, bear in mind that the street was across a harbour and he was looking through binoculars! God bless Americas' return policies! My wife bought a $US1,000 elliptical trainer 3 years ago and hardly used it. Now, we are moving her elderly mother in to live with us and we need the room. She called Costco and said that we need to return it and they said no problem, we'll send a truck in about a week to retrieve it and give you a full refund. Fabulous!
Oddly, the best gov't department to deal with is the scariest: Inland Revenue Department (provided you can get a human to answer the phone). Have a problem with your taxes? Give 'em a call, they'll give you reasonable advice, even sort out the problem over the phone.
I love your video!!! I’m in the process of moving there but I’m a little scared about the slow pace even though I want the work-life balance. I’m hoping everything won’t be just too slow for me🤦🏾♀️😩😂
Oh it definitely won’t!!! Honestly, you are going to LOVE it here!! And things are a little different depending on what area you live in also. If you live in Auckland, it’s a vastly different world compared to where we live in Queenstown
@@GoandLove I’m going to be in Wellington and I currently live in Los Angeles and field is CyberSecurity, which is very fast pace so we’ll see. Thank you
Nau Mai Haere Mai: Welcome..In Maaori..So glad that you guys are enjoying your guys new life here..I hope NewZealand does not disappoint you guys👍✝️🙏🇳🇿🇺🇸..Yes some services are So slack🤔 40 days what A disappointment concerning your jacket..You should have pushed them, customers are always first & usually in the right..Don't let businesses/people here, screw you around..
Kia ora Naomi, a quick question your accent kept breaking, so I'm assuming you are an ex kiwi who has been living in the US for a very long time. Can you give us some time-frames around living in Aotearoa and the US and your return. Would bring things into perspective. Nga mihi
Nick here :) You have a great ear for accents!!! She left NZ when she was 19 and lived in Australia for 6 years, and then lived in America for 6 years, and now back in NZ for the past half year. Throughout the time away, she’s always come back for a few months here and there to be with family 🥰
@@GoandLove Kia ora Nick and the rest of the whanau. Kiwis always recognise other kiwis, I think its a natural instinct :-) If you and the family are still in Aotearoa, I hope you are all safe my friends. Kia kaha.
Thank you so much! Yup, we’re still here :) We actually just moved to a new place on the the outskirts of Queenstown and should be posting a new video about our new home tomorrow 🤗
Kudos to you guys for camping with a little one! Well done. I've spent a lot of time living in the USA. With my American lady partner. Mainly in California but we travelled around and visited almost every State. (Not Alaska nor Hawaii) I also showed her around much of New Zealand, so I got first hand comparisons of the same things you discussed. Meaning I can confirm that almost every point you made was "right on the button". However, you were far too kind when describing NZ Housing. LOL. The huge lack of insulation etc, particularly down South where you are, makes them horrible places in the winter. We had many "discussions" about how she was "freezing her ass off". LOL. My only gripe is about the whole tipping culture in the US. Personally I find it disgusting that people doing service type roles are forced to grovel and beg for tips. If they received a decent hourly rate they wouldn't need to. But then that would affect the price charged for the actual goods or services. If the companies paid higher hourly rates they would also pay higher tax to the IRS. Currently, how much tax is paid on the Tips received by the service employees? The whole thing is a rort. Yes, I know other issues come in to play but it really is just demeaning to employees. My good lady was constantly berating me for not providing an adequate tip for staff. Plus in NZ it is actually illegal to present prices on goods/services that do not have ALL the taxes included. (Fair Trading Act) I was constantly getting caught out by the "price not being the final price" when in the US. With local state/federal/compulsary gratuaty etc still to be added. Then they still wanted a tip on top. Jeez, I'm sounding like an old grouch. LOL. Enough of my rant. Glad you are enjoying the place. Have fun. Cheers.
Lol, I loved reading this comment!!!!! Yea, I (Nick) haven spent a winter here yet, so we’ll see how it goes!!! And yea, it does really frustrate me how you literally never know the actual final price of things until you’ve already paid for it. Doesn’t make any sense at all. And I totally get the whole tipping issues. I’m curious to see how I feel about it when I head back in the future.
Not at all 🤔 We’re just talking about the differences. We absolutely love it here!! I hope it comes across in the video how amazing NZ is (and 2/3’s of us are NZ citizens, and potentially 3/3 will be some day). America is amazing as well in its own right, but pretty horrible in a lot of ways that we talk about also.
Honestly, I watch a lot of these type of you tube vids, on comparing our beautiful NZ to other countries, Really, if you choose to go to another country, then by all means it would be different, how can it be the same. Tipping for example, I hope we never have that system here, as most cafe/restaurants/bars,worker's in the USA, expect to make there money that way, where the customer chooses how much he thinks you are worth, here, there are assurance's at the end of your 40 week working hours what you will receive and not what you might receive. Also here, which is one of the biggest gifts we have is our holidays are mandated, public holidays, annual leave holidays, days n lieu, where as the USA, no holidays are mandated, which means you are not entitled to holidays if your employer chooses not to give them, employers have no choice here, and in fact it is encouraged by a lot of employers here. again of course each country is different.......NZ has work/life balance, not in the USA. so I am proud of our kiwi Island,
We are SO proud of the Kiwi culture!!! My wife (Naomi) grew up in NZ and I did not realize what she gave up when she moved to America to be with me 😱 And to clarify, there are some 100% work-off for everyone public holidays in America. Just not nearly as much.
@@GoandLove Thank you for your reply, even though you have them, there are no set rules that employers in the USA have to give you a day off on those particular P-hdays, cause a lot of the companies in America can just fire you when it pleases them, so people become fearful in losing their jobs, again not all, but most, as with a lot of the bigger countries, and yes indeed I am aware of your wife being brought up in NZ, she didn't give up anything, she just followed her heart, so watching some of your vids, it seems that you are a fun loving family man. Correct kiwi's are way chilled, perhaps some instance's tooooooooooo chilled, but that's just who we are...love it, or not...we are who we are, one of the safest countries in the world...not the greatest, but top in the safest...and most trusting to do business with, a little too much on the comment, just I am passionate about my country...But anyhow, safe travels for you and your whanau, all the best.
I agree! It's not the greatest country on earth, only americans think that it is! Lol I lived in the USA and some of my workmates didn't even know where NZ is on the map. 🤣 and i tell you, life in america is very complicated.
I can 100% verify the vast majority of Americans have never heard of New Zealand, much less know where it would be on the map....... and I know this because I was one of them at one time 😂🤦🏻♂️
Culture of generosity? You have got to be kidding. The US system of tipping emphasizes the gap between the haves and have nots. I've watched Americans boost their own ego by tipping large at the expense of the self-esteem of the person receiving the tip and also the self-esteem of others in their own group. Look at me, aren't I better than all of you because I can afford to tip large and I'm such a great, generous person. Yuk! Kiwis aren't perfect by any means, but at least they're more genuine in their generosity, and wealth alone doesn't make you a celebrity here.
Very cool!!! And to clarify, I definitely do not like tipping 😂 But I do feel like it has had an effect on people as they are more used to giving. That might just be my circles though 🤷🏻♂️
About the conversation style - I found it very hard to participate in conversations at all in the US because it seemed like everyone was talking over the top of everyone else. In NZ you wait until the other person is finished before you reply so probably what you perceive as an awkward pause you have to fill is just the other person making sure you've finished what you wanted to say. It probably takes some getting used to. People are waiting for a gap in the conversation before they start speaking.
1000% yes. I’m not working in e us but working overseas with North Americans and it took months to deal with what was happening. I found conversations very stressful, coworkers constantly talking over each other, and sometimes 2 people having conversations with each other about 2 different tropics seemingly not listening to one another. Honestly, I avoided getting into conversations because I never got to finish what I was saying. Things I never knew were cultural differences! I prefer someone to give eye contact, listen, and then actually respond to what I said with a comment or sort and I always try to do the same back. It’s much more the kiwi culture to listen, and even if you don’t care or were half listening to try and give a response before changing the topic or expressing your own opinion. It sounds like a slow awkward conversation, but I don’t think so, it’s based on respect, respect for the other person and what they’re saying and giving them your time. Anyway, nice video and lovely seeing the beach! 😀
Nah, Americans seem to have a culture where poor buying decisions are the responsibility of the retailer or manufacture. In NZ if you buy a faulty product, no problem it gets sorted. If you buy a green tee shirt and take it back and say you don't like the colour, the retailer has the right to say no, they may not, but they can. Sometimes though you are dead right the actual service you get can be rubbish.
'Hampton' might be an Australian expression. It's definitely not Kiwi. I only heard it for the first time last year on one of those Aussie amateur renovation shows.
You didn’t say that the US needs to tip because they don’t pay their wait staff enough. It is shameful the low wages that are paid to US hospitality workers
It might sound strange if you haven’t experienced it, but 99% of American hospitality workers would prefer the tip method over getting minimum wage. If you do a good job, you get tipped and make a really good living. There’s a reason to have great service. Of course, the downside is if you don’t do a good job, you sometimes won’t get a tip (honestly, you have to do a pretty horrible thing to not get a tip. I actually don’t ever remember ever not giving a tip. Maybe once I gave a 10% tip instead of the usual 20%, but can’t actually remember doing that).
The USA is much richer than New Zealand and the average American has much more disposable income so when they see good service & hard work, they tip generously and that’s why many younger workers like high school & college students prefer minimum wage+tips over an hourly pay rate that’s above minimum wage but does not include tips!
Lol I guess we each have unique personal experiences, and that’s cool :) I mean absolutely no disrespect and actually am really attracted to the slower place that I’ve experienced.
Thank you :) Obviously sharing differences that we’ve experienced doesn’t sit well with everyone, but I really don’t mean any negativity when I say “slow talking” 🤷🏻♂️ Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
@@GoandLove here is a quick fact for you... The TV show "Shortland Street" which is mumble mumble years old now... When it was first made they hired American writers for the first season... the first few shows had to be rewritten and extra dialogue put in because the Kiwis talk so fast... (but as some one who has traveled) My observation on this is ... It is usually only when they are talking to another kiwi... go figure considering our layed back attitude...
Hello. Nick & Naomi. I love your video but I love that you guys are a believer in Christ Jesus. I really love that about you guys continue to share Jesus christ with others as you guys travel around the world with the little one stay safe while you tell others about our Lord and saviour Jesus christ. Viewing your video from Canada.
Tipping is not 'a culture of generosity' if that's what I heard. You are paying people well below a living wage, and topping it up. It's not generosity at all.
Agreed, tipping is definitely not a culture of generosity!!! ...But it’s created a culture of generosity. How much do you tip? 1%? 10%? 15%? 20%? 25%? This is an actual daily conversation in American culture and it’s a thing most Americans take great pride in on how much they tip. And when you’re used to giving, it carries over into other parts of your daily life. All of this is obviously subjective based on personal experiences. But from our personal experience, as well as just about every couple that is in a multi-cultural marriage that we are friends with, the majority of us would agree that for some reason Americans do walk a generous lifestyle.
@@GoandLove I appreciate the reply. My point is you aren't actually tipping, you are paying wages. It's only a tip if it's above and beyond a decent wage level. In NZ we pay a living wage and then you can tip extra if it's warranted for good service. In the US tips aren't tips, they are wages. It also sounds a little like you are treating servers like some sort of charity, deserving of charitable generosity. It should be just like any other job, paid what it's worth by the employer, minimum wage or above, with the same benefits anyone else gets, and given more dignity.
Oh I 100% agree with you! I absolutely LOVE the way that NZ pays actual wages!!! I’m not saying it’s a good thing that America doesn’t pay actual wages for waiters/waitresses. What I am saying is that we have realized that a good thing has come out of a broken system. Out of the broken tipping system, it has made us more attune to give regardless if we see it as charity or not. Again, this is our personal experience. I’m not saying NZ people aren’t generous. But we have certainly seen and experienced some crazy weird generosity from Americans, and I think it stems from tipping 🤷🏻♂️
I just did a quick google search “most generous countries” and Google (which is obviously truth 😂🤦🏻♂️) says that America is in fact the most generous country in the world. With that said, it says that New Zealand is the #3 most generous country in the world!!! No idea where they stem those stats from, but just sharing what we’ve experienced. Thank you so much for watching and commenting!!!
The difference for me is that tipping culture i think its sad that America being one of the most richest countries in the world dont have a high pay rate for workers so they have to be tipped to make ends meat so nz we dont tip because we are paid a pretty good rate health care is free just about having been to hawaii and talked to a waitress who explained it to me i was just saddened bu that i asked her how much she would earn in a week and she told me between $120-$150 😯so i tipped her 2weeks worth if her wages 👏🏽
I was born in England in 1984 and in 1995, I moved to New Zealand. Moving to New Zealand was the hardest thing I ever had to. It really affected me. It took me a long time to adjust to living in New Zealand. New Zealand is so different from England. New Zealand is a beautiful country. I am really fond of Palmerston North. I don't know if I will ever go back to the UK. I hear it's now overcrowded and with COVID-19, going back will now be impossible.
There are some camping grounds and on the longer national park hikes there are DOC (Department of Conservation) huts free to use BUT the freedom camping was brought into law due to tourists traveling around the country in vans and sleeping in vans wherever they stopped in parks, beside rivers, carparks in towns, playgrounds etc and they dedicated and desposed of toilet paper, sanitary napkins and rubbish wherever they where parked so over the last few years they made it illegal to park/camp anywhere, it had to be a designated camp site with toilet facilities. They called themselves Freedom Campers. NOT ALL FREEDOM CAMPERS WERE that irresponsible but alot were.
Great video, guys, thank you very much! Although at times the loud volume of the background music made it difficult to hear you speaking. I've noticed this as a general feature in your videos. The natural sounds of the places you visit are nice to hear too. Just a suggestion for your consideration. Your videos are fantastic regardless. Thanks!
Very true! And every state and country actually does it a little different in the states. Some areas require what’s called a Road Emissions Test every year and you car has to pass that test. But MOST areas don’t require that
Main produce growers in NZ are required to keep spray diaries and retailers conduct spray residue analysis testing so with washing your fruit and vegetables as a precaution you can eat main stream NZ grown produce with confidence or you can choose certified organics if that is your preference
Interesting video guys. Now I really want to visit New Zealand. Reminds me of my first visit to Italy with my wife (our belated honeymoon when she was five months pregnant). We went out to dinner and when we finished we were waiting for the check (in the US as soon as they see you finished they're coming by with the check). We waited for almost 30 minutes before I finally asked the waiter and found out that they won't bring you the check until you ask for it as they don't want to seem as if they're trying to push you out the door.
Lolll it’s those little things that do make a huge difference! Over here in NZ, it’s very rare for a waiter/waitress to bring you the check. You almost always go up to the register to pay
Interestingly the major difference between New Zealand and America is that NZ is not very religious and secular yet people are friendly and decent, going about their lives unconcerned with unsubstantiated claims of the religious. If you have good credable evidence for the existence of God let's hear it. (Probably a different show I enjoy the show. Thanks for making it. Cheers
Yea, my guess is that is all depends on who you’re hanging around with. All of my kiwi friends here seem to be pretty radical and passionate about Jesus and I’m the tame one 😂🤷🏻♂️ But I will say, there is certainly a lot of “characters” in American society 😂 Evidence of God is certainly a long discussion and maybe for another video, and there’s far smarter and more interesting people debating this topic. But a few quick points: When you see a building, how do you know that someone built it? Because it exists. You don’t know the builder, you don’t know when it was built, but you know it’s there and trust that someone built it because it’s there. It’s a scientific impossibility for nothing to create something. When I look at the trees, ocean, dirt, etc… I know there was a builder for this all, because it exists. And I’d love to meet you in person one day and explain this more and hear your thoughts on it all, but to take it further than just “existing”, I know God exists because I have a real and personal relationship with him. Anyways, thanks so much for watching and commenting man!
That was funny listening to your impressions of Kiwi life. I take it all for granted but I expect I would have culture shock if I moved to the US to live.
Lol, I have been known to give the worst accent impressions 😂 You should hear my British… 😳😂 Thank you for watching and commenting!! We have SO been loving it here more and more everyday!
we definitely do have great return policies, we have the consumer guarantee act that prevents any company from screwing us over. you're right, just no one really bothers to return things.
John 3:16-21 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. 21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
I’m pretty sure they never ran tests and chucked it out. I can imagine it just being a work joke, like “someone actually sent this to us just expecting a new one hehe. “ if you return something it’s usually with the tag still on with a receipt and within 30 days. It can suck tho. My partner and I brought a new Xbox controller so our son could play with a friend and we forgot to keep the receipt so when we found it turns off every five mins we couldn’t return it. We were so gutted, he still can only play with one. So the new one is just Lying around now.
I followed up again today and they actually responded a few minutes ago! They told me nothing is wrong with the jacket and I can pay to have them send it back 😂🤦🏻♂️ I’m thinking I just send it to my parents back in the states and they just bring it into the store and they’ll instantly get a new one (and if they share this story, they will surely get a discount on whatever else 😂🤦🏻♂️)
Thank you so much 🥰🥰🥰 Everyone is so nice here, we’ve felt so blessed to be here!! My wife (Naomi) grew up in New Zealand and I didn’t quite realize what she gave up when I brought her to the states...
Request is received! I’m pretty new to editing so I’m slowly learning! My latest video does have pauses with no music 😂 But I’m definitely getting more comfortable without the music all the time. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!!!
Just my (unintentionally extended) thoughts on a bunch of the stuff you mentioned: *Cars:* You presumptions about convertibles are pretty much spot on. The weather in most of the country makes them quite impractical, and even where there's less rain there's still often wind (we don't want to feel the wind in our hair, cos usually it comes from the ocean or Antarctica so it's freezing). Consequently, most convertibles are only in the price range of people who can afford to be so impractical, which also makes them less popular because wealth symbols are quite shunned due to our Tall Poppy Syndrome. As we lack our own car manufacturer but have access to basically every market, NZ has the highest diversity of car brands and models in the world, but Japanese cars are the most popular because they're cheaper thanks to the reduced shipping costs that come with Japan's proximity. In recent years, there's also been a growing preference for them because replacement parts are cheaper and often readily available, whereas parts for other (especially European) brands are notoriously expensive and might even need to be shipped over especially. Unlike the DMV, the AA isn't a governmental department but rather an incorporated society that began as a social club for motoring enthusiasts. Over its nearly 120 year history, it's expanded to provide nearly every service a motorist could want or need, including some that might be handled by a government office in other countries, and caters to 1.7M members (probably nearly all the motorists in the country given there's only 5M people). *Commercialisation:* The commercialisation of nature is generally considered to be quite vulgar and repugnant in NZ, especially if it's done in a readily observable way. I think this probably originates from the Māori custom of _kaitiakitanga_ or "guardianship of nature", which has come to permeate wider Kiwi culture, in part because it's an aspect of traditional Māori culture that was easily transposable into post-colonial NZ society. A lot of early settlers were keen to preserve NZ's natural beauty (after they'd deforested half of it to create farmland, of course), many having escaped from the dirtiest parts of Britain and finding NZ to remind them of the prettiest parts, so it was an easy source of common ground for many settlers and Māori (who by this point had seen half their land be deforested). In the century since, this focus on guardianship and advocacy for nature gained increased emphasis in Māori culture as it was a means for Māori to retain an aspect of their traditional identity while participating in post-colonial society, which has generally embraced the idea as a means of reconciliation with Māori. This relationship is strengthened by the fact that Māori identity is heavily tied to the land, so protecting the land and protecting Māori go hand-in-hand, which has served to ensure that both are advanced when there is greater public interest in one or the other. In essence, respect for nature is part of the vital fabric that holds New Zealand society together, and most Kiwis of any ethnicity would agree that this respect and care for nature is a fundamental criteria of 'Kiwiness'. *Communication Style:* I might clarifying that Kiwis do typically _speak_ fast, they just don't _converse_ fast. When we have conversations, we're not in so much of a hurry to get to the point and wrap everything up. The actual pace of speech itself, however, can be quite fast unless we're slowing it down because we think someone might not be keeping up. The reduction of vowels that characterises the Kiwi accent is partly driven by our tendency to speak faster, as properly annunciating vowel sounds takes longer than just replacing them all with an "uh" (we keep stressed vowels, though). Having said that, most South Islanders do speak noticeably slower than North Islanders, for which they are sometimes given a bit of grief as we tend to equate slower speech with lack of education (I don't think Kiwis are alone in that regard). As far as awkward conversation pauses go, I might suggest trying to keep an ear out for our 'high-rising terminal' (the rising tone that most other accents only use for at the end of a question), which I'm sure, Nick, you've probably noticed and gotten annoyed at. Apart from denoting explicit questions, Kiwis (instinctively) use it for a number of related functions, most pertinently to elicit a response or acknowledgement that the sentence or speech thus far has been properly understood and followed. When we're talking about something that involves a series of more complex ideas or sentences, we'll often throw in an HRT to convey an implied question of "You know what I mean?" or "Are you following me?". Naturally, this can also appear when we have reason to doubt the person's comprehension, such as with a child or an American (not for the same reason, of course, we just assume that foreigners have trouble understanding our accent). Generally, when using HRT to elicit a response in this manner, we do actually expect a reply and typically pause to wait for one, hence you'll find that a conversation between two Kiwis often involves a lot of "uh-huh", "right", "mmm", "yeah", "oh", and plenty of other interjections or exclamations to provide audible feedback that we have understood and are still listening, especially when someone's saying something rather protracted. Sometimes non-Kiwis might exhibit this kind of back-and-forth discourse when talking on the phone, because you can't read the person's facial expressions to derive the same kind of information, but for whatever reason we Kiwis routinely do it in everyday speech as well. I would suggest trying to pick up on it and implement it yourself if possible, Nick, or at least the responses to it, as failing to offer the appropriate "I'm still listening" responses might lead people to false conclusions, such as that you aren't interested in the current topic of conversation (which will likely prompt them to shift the topic) or that you aren't comprehending them (which might cause them to speak slower). Most people, though, wouldn't think you're rude for missing the responses, it just might lead to awkwardness if they run out of topics that they think you're interested in (though they'll probably just presume you're not following for anyone with an accent). Perhaps confusingly, one of the other main ways that we use an HRT is to denote that a list isn't yet complete. For example, if someone is formulating a list of groceries that they want you to buy, or are recounting a list of activities that they did in the weekend, they'll often punctuate each list item with an HRT to denote that the list isn't finished and they're still thinking of what comes next. Similar to how a question begs a response, a list item with HRT begs another list item, so we use this to convey that we haven't finished speaking yet and are trying to figure out what to say next. This HRT might intrude into any situation involving suspense or indecision, such as when you're staring at a menu and the teller/server is waiting and staring at you expectantly, so you might say something like "I'm so sorry, I'm just not sure what I _want."_ The HRT at the end there, typically not rising as high as for an actual question, is meant to imply that we acknowledge the inconvenience of making them wait and that our decision is impending (even though it might still take some time). This actually ties into a deeper Kiwi culture of apologetic politeness and its accompanying conventions and mannerisms, but that's a whole different subject best left for another time.
Yeah, this turned out to be so voluminous that I had to split it over two comments: *Communications:* As you pointed out, the approach to basically everything in NZ is very laid back, so usually the staff won't be in much of a hurry to sort out your issue, and it's taken for granted that you won't be in a hurry either. If you feel like something is taking too long, it is perfectly acceptable to chase people up so long as you're not too rude about it. In fact, if you _don't_ chase them up, it'll often be taken as confirmation that you aren't in any kind of hurry so they should just take their time. Obviously, in the US, it'd be offensive to suggest that the customer should have to chase up staff to actually do their job, but it's pretty much an accepted fact of life in NZ, even if it tends to annoy us as much as it would any American. Nobody's really that surprised when it happens, and businesses aren't too concerned about losing customers over it because nearly everyone does it so customers don't often have another option. And, for the most part, people don't get too aggravated about it because we're supposed to all be laid back, so without anything to make the matter truly urgent, people usually won't get as indignant over it as might be the case in the US. *Housing:* You're right about the regional variance in rental terms. In the big cities, most of the landlords are "career landlords" with large rental portfolios that are often managed by a property management company. In order to minimise the time spent tenant hunting, these landlords or their property managers almost always expect you to sign a 1-year lease agreement (the rent is still paid weekly) so that they don't have to bother with finding new tenants a few months down the line. This is also important for their ability to assure the bank that the mortgage payments for their houses are stable, thereby facilitating the procurement of further loans to purchase additional houses because you can never own too many houses (or rather, you can never profit off of too many houses that the bank owns). On the other hand, the smaller a location is, the less of these leeches there are, and instead most of the landlords are nice old people who bought the house next door several decades ago and rent it out for a modest price to supplement their pension. These are the best landlords, even if some of them can be a bit "eccentric", and they're generally not as concerned about how long you commit to the rental (or if you even fix it with a lease) as they have plenty of time to find new tenants for their one or two houses and aren't using the rent to perpetuate a parasitic property investment scheme. I think it's probably obvious which of these two landlord types I suffer under. *Organic Food:* Your analysis here is spot on. It's also worth noting that, unlike the word "natural", the label of "organic" is highly and strictly regulated in NZ (I believe the USDA is similarly strict), which means most growers here aren't inclined to bother with something that there isn't much of a market for anyway. I believe it takes quite a bit of time to procure an organic certification, especially if the land you're using has been previously subjected to pesticides, so most existing growers would have to operate for some time as though they were organic without actually having the benefits of being certified as organic (in regards to the small sector of the market that actually cares). *Camping:* Yeah, designated camping sites is such a norm in NZ that I hadn't even considered the possibility of just camping wherever you please until you guys mentioned it. Like, obviously you can camp wherever you want on private land (that you have lawful access to), but in terms of public land, you're required to use (and often pay for, at a modest price) a designated camping space. And if the land is administered by the Department of Conservation, which basically all the best and most beautiful camping locations are, you can _bet_ that they'll enforce it. If you're outside a designated area, DoC will absolutely find out about you (whether from zealous locals or spy satellites), track you down, and fine you mercilessly. If you're _lucky,_ they'll give you a warning the first time, though only if they think you were being careful and considerate enough about the environment; if you've got a dog, there's rubbish lying around, your campfire isn't safe enough (or is currently prohibited), or you've got enough food for several days but haven't brought anything to contain your "deposits", they will most likely smack you with a fine. And they absolutely do monitor the designated sites no matter how remote they are, so sneaking into a place you're supposed to pay for will also, most likely, result in a fine even if there's nobody there to dob you in. Local councils are less vigilant at managing their land and the campsites on it (they mostly only have angry locals to worry about, not the conservation of protected environments), but you're still likely to get found out and fined before too long, especially if it's a popular location as the locals are often so fed up with people being a nuisance that they'll ring the council on anyone. So yeah, it's really not a good idea to flout the designated camping rules; DoC is also known to casually hand out brutal bans to people who they've had to fine more than once or twice, and they really don't care much about the "we're from overseas and didn't know any better" excuse, as that just means the potential for environmental damage was even greater. Because that's ultimately what the designated camping rules are about: protecting the environment. Those campsites are chosen very carefully, to avoid known habitats of endangered wildlife and other sensitive areas, to minimise fallout from accidental fires, to contain and moderate the environmental impacts of human activity, and to facilitate institutional support that ranges from the provision of environmentally appropriate toilet facilities to keeping track of your whereabouts so that people will actually notice if you have an accident and go missing (especially given, as you mentioned, cell service can be unreliable). It's actually a very fine example of how Americans and Kiwis think very differently; in the US, our measures would be seen by most as an encroachment by the government on personal liberty, while in NZ we see it as the government expectedly and responsibly looking after people and the environment. I seem to have gotten quite carried away with this comment, so I don't really expect you to have read this far, but if you do, I hope my small essay was at least somewhat interesting. Also, I've made sure to subscribe because apparently I forgot to do so even though I've watched and enjoyed a few of your videos now. 😅
Tipping is generally a NO NO in N Z as employers must pay a living wage to employees, unlike the US where so many jobs rely on tips to meet a living wage.
NZ is awesome to do that :) Strangely, the employees in America actually make more due to tips though so I don’t think tipped employees are complaining. Hey; thanks so much for watching and commenting!
I always imagined USA were the World Series Champions, and NZ were in the Minors. The only thing we were good at was sport. Which reminds me, can you teach us American Football? Please lol
My goodness, where have you been? Almost everything you said is the opposite in the north island. Never heard term Hamptons in relation to NZ. Thought that is a place in America with the style of a country white washed look. I had real difficulty camping off the beaten track in the US, signs informing you do not park or stop here etc, heavy handed officialdom everywhere, here in nz’s north island no problem - you can go nearly anywhere. Must be a South Island thing with all the tourists there councils trying to stop random campers polluting the area. Never heard of renting a place for less than 3 months, nearly 6months or more standard. Hardly ever find a furnished rental here. Doc visits $60 here not $30. Fibre in main areas only but not rural. Cell phone reception can be blocked by mountainous regions here too though. People outside cities & suburbia live rural on lifestyle blocks. Eg. A house and barn/workshop on 10 acres, only then would you find any animals/sheep unless you are a farmer. Returning goods extremely easy in all main stores, Briscoes, m10, bunnings, farmers, warehouse, spotlight, Bbnb, etc etc. No problem, but occasionally they may ask for your receipt to prove you got it there. Think you guys need to visit the north and see how different it is.
Nice!!!! Yea, we’ve only spent about 2 months up in the north island, but we’re also not big city people so I guess that would change our experience quite a bit. And the “Hampton style” thing was first introduced to me by someone in the north island 🤷🏻♂️ Anyways, north island sounds really nice!!!
So interesting! It actually reminded me a lot of the differences in culture from the US to the UK. I used to work in retail so I kind of like NZs mindsets - returns used to stress me out 🤣 so crazy about Target! My jaw dropped! I also like less commercialized places, spending the holidays in the UK was so cozy and quaint- so different from what I’m used to. I also like the minimalist design. I definitely can see what you mean about different culture work life balance - when I fist met Chris I couldn’t believe he literally had months paid vacation lol crazy! We do have fiber optic internet - but that was p selling point for our neighborhood 🤣 That’s so cool that rentals are fully furnished. I love decorating, but that would be so convenient. It’s nice that NZ seems to care more where food comes from - so crazy about grain fed meat 🥩. So interesting about the healthcare. When Chris moved to the state’s he just couldn’t believe how much it costs but was blown away with how quickly he was seen for everything here. Loved this so much guys! So fun to celebrate differences and learn about NZ! 💕❤️
Yep, the Consumer Guarantee Act here in NZ specifically states that the business does not have to give you a refund if you change your mind. You are, however, protected if the goods are faulty, and many companies will grant a refund if you change your mind if you have proof of purchase provided the goods are in original condition and therefore can be re-sold. We kind of assume you wouldn't buy a thing if you didn't want it.
Yeah, I wanted the jacket. It was just a faulty jacket and just a horrible customer service experience :( Here's the full story of that experience. It was just a mess: th-cam.com/video/9cBXpmHRowk/w-d-xo.html
America’s the land of plenty and lots of choices hence the consumer is the king!… The USA developed with innovations, work ethic, entrepreneurship and industries whereas a country like New Zealand, or should I say a monarchy like New Zealand, is still developing and whatever development it achieved so far, it was under a paternalistic socialist society where the citizens/subjects looked upon their government so solve all or most of their problems/issues!… That’s why it’s not the cultural norm down under to work hard to succeed (tall poppy syndrome) or put in an extra effort to satisfy a customer!
@@GoandLove out of curiosity what's your other favorite state? In terms of states I do love oregon, but I think I need a more equal and fair society to live in where corruption is not rampant!~
Yea, we had good friends in Medford where it was apparently a bit less one-sided with everything (at least that’s what our friend told us 🤷🏻♂️), but we fell in love with North Carolina!!!! Almost as beautiful as Oregon and pretty amazing in just about every category there is.
Plenty of bullying by bureaucrats. NZ is embracing communism at an alarming rate. The white colonialist are all evil mentality is rampant. Housing laws have been terrible for decades. The housing "crisis" is entirely government created. The media is practically state owned propaganda. These are not insurmountable problems but they suit the powers that be so are unlikely to get better.
Welcome to NZ ,we work hard so we wanna play it's a natural play ground,You cannot expect it to be like the states, We are known for being laid back ,yes sometimes customer service sucks (except for TCB SKI & Board, Ohakune ) Just take it in and adapt or don't. We are not perfect but pretty close !! Enjoy our country !!
Ohhhh yea! Amazing, right?! I’m from Chicago and would easily pay $300+ in the title transfer + taxes. We were very shocked and a little confused when we bought our first car here
Buying and selling a motor vehicle is even easier than you suggested. All you need to do is log onto the NZTA website and enter some basic details - like the license plate and the names of both parties. There are different options for the seller and the buyer. It takes 2 minutes!
Oh yea, I forgot there is an online way to do it!!!! We didn’t have NZ licenses when we bought our car, so we decided to go to the Post to make sure it was all done right 🤷🏻♂️
They essentially celebrate the same thing, but also the opposite… The 4th of July is called “Independence Day” because it’s the day the 13 colonies declared their independence from England, which started the Revolutionary War. Waitangi Day is the day the treaty was signed to not go to war and instead live in dependence/peace with each other.
In practice, that’s not true though. I wish it was! Or at least it’s much harder to return things compared to the States. Ask any American and they will confirm this 🤷🏻♂️
Tipping is required in the US because the staff are not making enough from their wages to live on. In other parts of the world, tipping isn't ingrained as the staff are earning a much higher wage that allows them to afford basic living requirements.
Thanks for watching and commenting!! So it might sound strange if you haven’t experienced it, but 99% of American hospitality workers would prefer the tip method over getting minimum wage. If you do a good job, you get tipped and make a really good living (a much better living than a lot of other professions). There’s a reason to have great service. Of course, the downside is if you don’t do a good job, you sometimes won’t get a tip. Honestly, you have to do a pretty horrible thing to not get a tip. I actually don’t ever remember ever not giving a tip. Maybe once I gave a 10% tip instead of the usual 20%, but can’t actually remember doing that. And tipping is never required. It’s done out of appreciation for great service, but never required (though it is expected).
I am in Dunedin just up the road... and the Catlins is my playground when I take the Ducati on a day trip... We also sometimes go camping down there as well... A few years back they opened the market on imports for second hand cars and a lot came from Japan... but there are also European vehicles as well... and the odd American ...
Coastal Taranaki (Surf Highway SH45) has a speed bridge that replaced a one-way bridge in the 70s for construction of Maui Gas Field. I think it was the first, besides may be Auckland.
@@GoandLove yea this one's been a beaut. Some stats Hamilton where I grew up gets on average 3m 10 of f rain annually. Westland in the south island gets up to 7 m 23 feet of rain a year. That rivals the Amazon rain forest and is only slightly behind the wettest place on earth which is a small hill station in India which gets absolutely drenched during the monsoon
Right?!? My wife has been out of NZ since for the past 12 years though, so it has been awhile. The main reason my wife was kinda “forced” to adapt her accent was because she was working as a Registered Nurse in the states and it was very hard for the patients to understand her and she wanted to give them the best care possible, so worked on pronouncing things so her patients would understand.
Okay, so I now I wanna go live in NZ! It's so beautiful, wow! I think I like the NZ side of the equation on just about everything except store returns, but certainly that's not a big deal. (Really, my heart is so in Africa that I think of your NZ stay as a detour on your way to Madagascar 😂 ... Just sayin'. I look forward to those posts one day!) Thanks for posting.. so nice to see you three! Oh, did you make a housing decision yet? Been praying...♥️
Thank you SO much for praying!!! Yes, we made a decision :) Well let everyone know soon! And we think the exact same as you in regards to this amazing detour :)
freedom camping is illegal to protect our environment. without it, tourists would decimate our forests and reserves. we have very strict environmental policies and will even sometimes close a natural attraction to prevent people from visiting if it gets too polluted, and major warnings and fines are put out for offenders.
@@GoandLove it hasn't always been this way. unfortunately, a lot of what you see is not native forest, but planted non native pine forests after almost all of our native land was destroyed for animal agriculture. the famous rolling hills we have are actually man made, all that green was alpine forest and hilly sub tropical forest. a lot of replanting is going on, the south island is a bit better because the larger mountains don't make great pasture land, but yeah. so, it looks beautiful, but it used to look a lot more amazing before european mass industrialisation :( so we fiercely protect what little we have left
Thanks for this informative video! I’m in the US now, will be an empty nester in about a year, am pondering a move to NZ. The more I research, the more impressed I am. One question: could you elaborate on the weather? I’ve read things about the weather (rainy, windy, unpredictable), but most videos I see shows otherwise. Perhaps it varies depending on where in NZ you are?
In regards to the weather in New Zealand its a very narrow country and the weather is fickle, places I've lived Waikato/unpredictable, BOP(Tauranga) Predictable, Northland/unpredictable. now some of the Southisland looks very predictable. Major range of hills/mountains play a huge part.
Waitangi day in 2021 wow it's July the 7th 2022 now. I experienced Waitangi day that day, when I came back from Australia when I was away for 38.5yrs. It was my first experience of a Waitangi day myself. I lived in Australia since I was 8yrs old. I'm back for good. I know what you are saying, I'm Maori and experience N.Z for the first time too. So I know how you are feeling. It's such a difference in experience. I boondock myself in New Zealand it's called freedom camping in translation. Been doing it ever since.
Kiaora to our ex kiwi whanau, welcoming you back to your root's. Just reminder,most of Americans that l have met throughout my journey. Have this mind concept Kiwi's are part of Australia 🤦🤦... That is an insult to us Kiwi's 😉🤣... Australian has nothing on our beautiful country. Australia is dried with hot humidity weather (24/7)lot of sufferings. Welcome back home ex kiwi whanau 🙂🇳🇿✊💚🖤🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿 it's good to have you back.
NZ is pretty much better than Australia in every way!!! Our experience when we lived in the States was the majority of people have never heard of New Zealand 🤷🏻♂️ I say let them visit Australia 🤠😜
Love the work life balance. That is why we moved here. You can take an extra 2 weeks off without pay and they don't care.
The real fruit ice cream is the best! 🍦
Amen!!!! 😂😍😍
You definitely are a true American 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸Love you man!
Aw gotcha. Where do you live now?
Awesome!! I went to Fordham University in NYC and lived in NYC for 6 years 🤩
your wife is getting a new zealand accent already...true
She grew up in NZ and lost her accent when she was living in America for 6 years. Her NZ accent is slowly coming back though! 🥰🥰
NZ has quite strict consumer quarantee laws about returns if the product is not in working order.
Yup, I think that’s a nice thing! But I (Nick) have just found USA and NZ kinda to the extremes on returns/exchanges. For example, my rain coat is truly 100% faulty. If I was in America, I would bring it into the store and they would instantly give me a new one in exchange for the faulty one. In NZ, I’ve been working with this company’s return department and they said they wanted to do tests on my jacket before they make a decision and it should take less than 10 days... they have now had my jacket for almost 60 days, rarely respond to my emails when I ask for an update, etc...
I’m sure that isn’t every company here in NZ, but that’s the only exchange I’ve tried to make so I guess my only experience to make my judgement on 🤷🏻♂️
There is an awesome truck museum in Invercargill. Lots of American trucks in there.
Ahhh dang!!! We’ll have to stop by there next time!! Very cool, thanks for letting us know!
There's another one in Paraparaumu in the Kapiti Coast Wellington 👍
Nice! We head up to the north island from time to time so maybe we’ll be there before heading down south again
Welcome to N.Z. that's the surfing and Cod fishing paradise.
Gore is my favourite place. Cool cafe culture there.
Ah very cool, we haven’t been to Gore yet
@@GoandLove Try inland Oamarama -Twizel region too around summer at canal area. Oamaru is cheap, weather mild and best as it's central to everywhere in South island. Gore and Southland is pretty cool open country. Maniatoto, Wipiata, Ranfurly not bad but from Macraes to Middlemarch is nice but cold in winter. Population very low.
@conmanumber1 aw yea, thanks!!! We’ve done a fair amount of exploring around but haven’t been to all of those places! But I’ve now done a bunch of fishing at the Twizel/Tekapo Canals and that’s one of my better viewed videos if interested: th-cam.com/video/HKzKqr41yMQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JyWQ4aJ4n-AvII4A
Good and interesting video! I love the way you reply to every comment, and are so 'understanding' about those that are sometimes a little contentious! What many people seem to forget is that even though we share a common language we are still a foreign country, as foreign in some ways as many non English speaking countries.
Really appreciate the kind comment!!! Yes, similar in SO many ways, and SOOOO different in other ways. Today, I learned what a “ladybird” was 😂😂 I always thought people were actually talking about a girl bird 😂 We call them LadyBugs in America 🥰
The work life balance and safety are my main reason for planning to move out to nz. Hope someday next year i will make it out 😁
Word on the street is that the NZ boarders won’t be open until late 2022/2023, but we’ll see! I’m sure you’ll love it here, it’s pretty hard to complain 😍
New Zealand is overrun with crime and the police are slow, soft, incompetent and the prison terms are short & sweet for the bad guys!… There are lots of videos on TH-cam about crime in New Zealand and a lot of it by Pacific Islander gangs!
When I was looking for property in QT our realestate agent picked up at the airport and drove up around all the properties over a weekend.
Wow, you found a gem!!!
I spent 12 years living in the USA. To this very day I cannot understand why American's want to make video's about the differences of our 2 countries. Every country has their differences. Why talk about it. While your here have a good time, is what it is all about.
@@mauricebrown9094 Nick is American 🇺🇸 Naomi is a Kiwi 🇳🇿 and we live in both countries so it’s fun to compare the differences.
Thanks for commenting and watching!
next visit is Mount Te Aroha to watch the Sunrise,
love it...
Thank you!!! Miss you guys 🥰
Thank you guys for your comments on differences of 2 countries.
USA is not my dream country but its NZ
& i wanna migrate in NZ so bad soon once borders are open.
NZ is very nice, very open, very friendly & perfect work life balance unlike USA.
Thank you again guys & great job
Love NZ forever 🇳🇿💖😎✌️
Very solid choice!! NZ is pretty amazing!
true! I agree with you 🇳🇿😎✌️
Hey guys, nice video. There is a real mexican food restaurat in Auclkand named Besos Latinos It's run by a mexican couple. Her owner has a TH-cam channel named Latin kiwi.
LETS GOOOOOOOO!!!! Thank you!
New Zealands' govt institutions are certainly nicer to deal with, compared with their American counterparts, for sure. Although I'll add that local councils in NZ have become increasingly authoritarian against the people that they are supposed to serve. One of my sisters built a house there and a compliance nerd from the council didn't like that he could see her white louvers from the street. Now, bear in mind that the street was across a harbour and he was looking through binoculars!
God bless Americas' return policies! My wife bought a $US1,000 elliptical trainer 3 years ago and hardly used it. Now, we are moving her elderly mother in to live with us and we need the room. She called Costco and said that we need to return it and they said no problem, we'll send a truck in about a week to retrieve it and give you a full refund. Fabulous!
Oddly, the best gov't department to deal with is the scariest: Inland Revenue Department (provided you can get a human to answer the phone).
Have a problem with your taxes? Give 'em a call, they'll give you reasonable advice, even sort out the problem over the phone.
I love your video!!! I’m in the process of moving there but I’m a little scared about the slow pace even though I want the work-life balance. I’m hoping everything won’t be just too slow for me🤦🏾♀️😩😂
Oh it definitely won’t!!! Honestly, you are going to LOVE it here!! And things are a little different depending on what area you live in also. If you live in Auckland, it’s a vastly different world compared to where we live in Queenstown
@@GoandLove I’m going to be in Wellington and I currently live in Los Angeles and field is CyberSecurity, which is very fast pace so we’ll see. Thank you
@@rahmajallow2861 Have you arrived in Wellington yet? Hope you're enjoying it. As a Wellingtonian I can advise you on the best spots :)
Fairlie Pies are great not that I eat pies. My wife (American) lives them.
Ahhh yes!!! We've recently stopped there and definitely agree!
Nau Mai Haere Mai: Welcome..In Maaori..So glad that you guys are enjoying your guys new life here..I hope NewZealand does not disappoint you guys👍✝️🙏🇳🇿🇺🇸..Yes some services are So slack🤔 40 days what A disappointment concerning your jacket..You should have pushed them, customers are always first & usually in the right..Don't let businesses/people here, screw you around..
Ah good to know. And thank you so much!!!
Kia ora Naomi, a quick question your accent kept breaking, so I'm assuming you are an ex kiwi who has been living in the US for a very long time. Can you give us some time-frames around living in Aotearoa and the US and your return. Would bring things into perspective. Nga mihi
Nick here :) You have a great ear for accents!!! She left NZ when she was 19 and lived in Australia for 6 years, and then lived in America for 6 years, and now back in NZ for the past half year. Throughout the time away, she’s always come back for a few months here and there to be with family 🥰
@@GoandLove Kia ora Nick and the rest of the whanau. Kiwis always recognise other kiwis, I think its a natural instinct :-) If you and the family are still in Aotearoa, I hope you are all safe my friends. Kia kaha.
Thank you so much! Yup, we’re still here :) We actually just moved to a new place on the the outskirts of Queenstown and should be posting a new video about our new home tomorrow 🤗
Kudos to you guys for camping with a little one! Well done. I've spent a lot of time living in the USA. With my American lady partner. Mainly in California but we travelled around and visited almost every State. (Not Alaska nor Hawaii) I also showed her around much of New Zealand, so I got first hand comparisons of the same things you discussed. Meaning I can confirm that almost every point you made was "right on the button".
However, you were far too kind when describing NZ Housing. LOL. The huge lack of insulation etc, particularly down South where you are, makes them horrible places in the winter. We had many "discussions" about how she was "freezing her ass off". LOL.
My only gripe is about the whole tipping culture in the US. Personally I find it disgusting that people doing service type roles are forced to grovel and beg for tips. If they received a decent hourly rate they wouldn't need to. But then that would affect the price charged for the actual goods or services. If the companies paid higher hourly rates they would also pay higher tax to the IRS. Currently, how much tax is paid on the Tips received by the service employees? The whole thing is a rort. Yes, I know other issues come in to play but it really is just demeaning to employees. My good lady was constantly berating me for not providing an adequate tip for staff. Plus in NZ it is actually illegal to present prices on goods/services that do not have ALL the taxes included. (Fair Trading Act) I was constantly getting caught out by the "price not being the final price" when in the US. With local state/federal/compulsary gratuaty etc still to be added. Then they still wanted a tip on top. Jeez, I'm sounding like an old grouch. LOL.
Enough of my rant. Glad you are enjoying the place. Have fun. Cheers.
Lol, I loved reading this comment!!!!! Yea, I (Nick) haven spent a winter here yet, so we’ll see how it goes!!! And yea, it does really frustrate me how you literally never know the actual final price of things until you’ve already paid for it. Doesn’t make any sense at all. And I totally get the whole tipping issues. I’m curious to see how I feel about it when I head back in the future.
You really need to get out of the South Island as alot of that is not a true representation of NZ lololol
lol, that is very true! We do love the south island so much though!! We're going up north to visit our brother in March though :)
Don't listen to this northie. The mainland is where its at.
Lol 😂
More outside of Auckland. Auckland a the outlier North and South aren't that different except for terrain.
Where do you live in NZ?
We live down in Queenstown :)
@@GoandLove best place in NZ. Lake Hayes myself.
Ah so cool! We’re over by Moke Lake on the other side of town
@@GoandLove you might know Gino then?
For sure, he’s the man!!! Takes care of us and our neighborhood well!
There are no farm animals in national parks. Just too many wild introduced pests.
oh gotcha, interesting 🤔
Funny when I lived in USA I was always told I spoke too fast as a Kiwi.
Lol funny how that works!!
Where was that cliffside road?! My goodness. I agree with most of your video - I love just calling "the government" when I need help. :)
Lol it’s just the best!!!!!
And we were down near Kaka Point 🥰
To me it looks like Skippers Canyon, not far from Queenstown, in the South Island.
Ohhhhhh, that part is Skippers Canyon!!! th-cam.com/video/x3j_A6FQ89A/w-d-xo.html
@@GoandLove 🙄🤣
Yeah in some respects you could view NZ as one giant farm lol
A sheep farm 😬
you will get elective surgery free but you will definitely have to go on a waiting list.
Ah interesting!
Hi dear Your help me i am going to NZ my wish my job in New zealand. Can you help me get a visa?
I can’t help with that, but just go to the New Zealand website and apply for a visa there 👍🏻 Good luck!
@@GoandLove Sir, Can you help me get a visa? sir plz help i more love NZ....
Lol, just go to the New Zealand website and apply! That’s how you get a visa :)
@@GoandLove Ok Sir, your help me. Sir i am cricketers man but i am a poor man 😘😚😘
@@GoandLove Sir, i love NZ my wish my job in New Zealand😘😘
Generosity? You mean entitlement.
Thanks for watching and commenting 🥰
So you came to nz and expected American stuff ok.
Not at all 🤔 We’re just talking about the differences. We absolutely love it here!! I hope it comes across in the video how amazing NZ is (and 2/3’s of us are NZ citizens, and potentially 3/3 will be some day). America is amazing as well in its own right, but pretty horrible in a lot of ways that we talk about also.
They didn't say that.
THANK YOU 😂🥰
@@GoandLove how close to Dunedin are you guys?
Honestly, I watch a lot of these type of you tube vids, on comparing our beautiful NZ to other countries, Really, if you choose to go to another country, then by all means it would be different, how can it be the same. Tipping for example, I hope we never have that system here, as most cafe/restaurants/bars,worker's in the USA, expect to make there money that way, where the customer chooses how much he thinks you are worth, here, there are assurance's at the end of your 40 week working hours what you will receive and not what you might receive. Also here, which is one of the biggest gifts we have is our holidays are mandated, public holidays, annual leave holidays, days n lieu, where as the USA, no holidays are mandated, which means you are not entitled to holidays if your employer chooses not to give them, employers have no choice here, and in fact it is encouraged by a lot of employers here. again of course each country is different.......NZ has work/life balance, not in the USA. so I am proud of our kiwi Island,
We are SO proud of the Kiwi culture!!! My wife (Naomi) grew up in NZ and I did not realize what she gave up when she moved to America to be with me 😱
And to clarify, there are some 100% work-off for everyone public holidays in America. Just not nearly as much.
@@GoandLove Thank you for your reply, even though you have them, there are no set rules that employers in the USA have to give you a day off on those particular P-hdays, cause a lot of the companies in America can just fire you when it pleases them, so people become fearful in losing their jobs, again not all, but most, as with a lot of the bigger countries, and yes indeed I am aware of your wife being brought up in NZ, she didn't give up anything, she just followed her heart, so watching some of your vids, it seems that you are a fun loving family man. Correct kiwi's are way chilled, perhaps some instance's tooooooooooo chilled, but that's just who we are...love it, or not...we are who we are, one of the safest countries in the world...not the greatest, but top in the safest...and most trusting to do business with, a little too much on the comment, just I am passionate about my country...But anyhow, safe travels for you and your whanau, all the best.
Thank you!!! The research we’ve done... I think we actually did see New Zealand rated as as the “#1 greatest country in the world” 😍
@@GoandLove lol, I know that, I just didn't want to boost more then I already had. All the best.. I wanted to even out my convo lol...
😂😂😍
I just love how American's coming to NZ suddenly realise that the USA is NOT the greatest country in the world.
😂😂😂 shhhhh, don’t tell any other Americans that
don't tell every one that...
😂
I agree! It's not the greatest country on earth, only americans think that it is! Lol
I lived in the USA and some of my workmates didn't even know where NZ is on the map. 🤣 and i tell you, life in america is very complicated.
I can 100% verify the vast majority of Americans have never heard of New Zealand, much less know where it would be on the map....... and I know this because I was one of them at one time 😂🤦🏻♂️
Not many convertibles here in NZ because you can get four seasons in one day lol . .thanks for sharing :-)
Haha that is SO true 😂
"Four Seasons in One day..."
Americans call it 'boondocks' but Kiwis say 'wopwops'
Ahh good to know! I’m learning!!
Culture of generosity? You have got to be kidding. The US system of tipping emphasizes the gap between the haves and have nots. I've watched Americans boost their own ego by tipping large at the expense of the self-esteem of the person receiving the tip and also the self-esteem of others in their own group. Look at me, aren't I better than all of you because I can afford to tip large and I'm such a great, generous person. Yuk! Kiwis aren't perfect by any means, but at least they're more genuine in their generosity, and wealth alone doesn't make you a celebrity here.
Amen! Thanks so much for watching and commenting!!! Have you ever been to America and experienced that tipping ego, or just heard about it???
@@GoandLove I've visited the USA several times, and hope to go again. I like a lot of things about the USA, but tipping is not one of them.
Very cool!!! And to clarify, I definitely do not like tipping 😂 But I do feel like it has had an effect on people as they are more used to giving. That might just be my circles though 🤷🏻♂️
@@GoandLove More used to giving with strings attached. From my observation Americans expect something in return for their 'generosity'.
@@margaretp1465 Gotcha, it’s interesting how we have different experiences. I appreciate you sharing yours!!!
About the conversation style - I found it very hard to participate in conversations at all in the US because it seemed like everyone was talking over the top of everyone else. In NZ you wait until the other person is finished before you reply so probably what you perceive as an awkward pause you have to fill is just the other person making sure you've finished what you wanted to say. It probably takes some getting used to. People are waiting for a gap in the conversation before they start speaking.
YESSSS!!!! Finally someone who understands!!! That is EXACTLY my wife (Naomi’s) thought process about the conversation differences
true
1000% yes. I’m not working in e us but working overseas with North Americans and it took months to deal with what was happening. I found conversations very stressful, coworkers constantly talking over each other, and sometimes 2 people having conversations with each other about 2 different tropics seemingly not listening to one another. Honestly, I avoided getting into conversations because I never got to finish what I was saying. Things I never knew were cultural differences! I prefer someone to give eye contact, listen, and then actually respond to what I said with a comment or sort and I always try to do the same back. It’s much more the kiwi culture to listen, and even if you don’t care or were half listening to try and give a response before changing the topic or expressing your own opinion. It sounds like a slow awkward conversation, but I don’t think so, it’s based on respect, respect for the other person and what they’re saying and giving them your time. Anyway, nice video and lovely seeing the beach! 😀
Awww very well worded!!!
Lol it is actually called manners. Plus knowing us kiwis we will say dont butt in🤣🤣🤣
Nah, Americans seem to have a culture where poor buying decisions are the responsibility of the retailer or manufacture. In NZ if you buy a faulty product, no problem it gets sorted. If you buy a green tee shirt and take it back and say you don't like the colour, the retailer has the right to say no, they may not, but they can. Sometimes though you are dead right the actual service you get can be rubbish.
Appreciate you watching and your input!!!
You might have to explore the north island - its a vast difference lol
Man, we can’t wait to explore up there at some point some more!! We’ve spent a little less than 2 months up there, but not nearly enough time 🤩
'Hampton' might be an Australian expression. It's definitely not Kiwi. I only heard it for the first time last year on one of those Aussie amateur renovation shows.
Oh, interesting 🤔 Good to know, thanks!!
I’ve worked in the NZ design and building industry. Hamptons style is a well known thing. More like a rich persons boat house style. 😂
Yea I hear “Hampton style” from pretty much every Kiwi I know who is building a house (which is most people)
Not Australian Hampton is American
Ask any American that and they will confirm that is not a term Americans use for a style of house 🥰
The whole damn country is a farm, lol 🤣
Lolllll tell me it’s not true!!?!?? 😂😂😂
You didn’t say that the US needs to tip because they don’t pay their wait staff enough. It is shameful the low wages that are paid to US hospitality workers
It might sound strange if you haven’t experienced it, but 99% of American hospitality workers would prefer the tip method over getting minimum wage. If you do a good job, you get tipped and make a really good living. There’s a reason to have great service.
Of course, the downside is if you don’t do a good job, you sometimes won’t get a tip (honestly, you have to do a pretty horrible thing to not get a tip. I actually don’t ever remember ever not giving a tip. Maybe once I gave a 10% tip instead of the usual 20%, but can’t actually remember doing that).
The USA is much richer than New Zealand and the average American has much more disposable income so when they see good service & hard work, they tip generously and that’s why many younger workers like high school & college students prefer minimum wage+tips over an hourly pay rate that’s above minimum wage but does not include tips!
@@aheat3036 ok, patriot😂
Sorry???? I don't know what u mean by slow talking!? Dude, kiwi's talk fast and you americans speak slow..... also 'tipping' is not a thing here in NZ
Lol I guess we each have unique personal experiences, and that’s cool :) I mean absolutely no disrespect and actually am really attracted to the slower place that I’ve experienced.
Thank you :) Obviously sharing differences that we’ve experienced doesn’t sit well with everyone, but I really don’t mean any negativity when I say “slow talking” 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks so much for watching and commenting!
@@GoandLove here is a quick fact for you... The TV show "Shortland Street" which is mumble mumble years old now... When it was first made they hired American writers for the first season... the first few shows had to be rewritten and extra dialogue put in because the Kiwis talk so fast... (but as some one who has traveled) My observation on this is ... It is usually only when they are talking to another kiwi... go figure considering our layed back attitude...
Gotcha, makes sense!
Hello. Nick & Naomi. I love your video but I love that you guys are a believer in Christ Jesus. I really love that about you guys continue to share Jesus christ with others as you guys travel around the world with the little one stay safe while you tell others about our Lord and saviour Jesus christ.
Viewing your video from Canada.
Aww thanks so much for your encouragement!!!! We could always use prayer if it comes to your mind 🥰 Thank you so much for watching and commenting!
Tipping is not 'a culture of generosity' if that's what I heard. You are paying people well below a living wage, and topping it up. It's not generosity at all.
Agreed, tipping is definitely not a culture of generosity!!! ...But it’s created a culture of generosity. How much do you tip? 1%? 10%? 15%? 20%? 25%? This is an actual daily conversation in American culture and it’s a thing most Americans take great pride in on how much they tip. And when you’re used to giving, it carries over into other parts of your daily life.
All of this is obviously subjective based on personal experiences. But from our personal experience, as well as just about every couple that is in a multi-cultural marriage that we are friends with, the majority of us would agree that for some reason Americans do walk a generous lifestyle.
@@GoandLove I appreciate the reply. My point is you aren't actually tipping, you are paying wages. It's only a tip if it's above and beyond a decent wage level. In NZ we pay a living wage and then you can tip extra if it's warranted for good service. In the US tips aren't tips, they are wages. It also sounds a little like you are treating servers like some sort of charity, deserving of charitable generosity. It should be just like any other job, paid what it's worth by the employer, minimum wage or above, with the same benefits anyone else gets, and given more dignity.
Oh I 100% agree with you! I absolutely LOVE the way that NZ pays actual wages!!! I’m not saying it’s a good thing that America doesn’t pay actual wages for waiters/waitresses.
What I am saying is that we have realized that a good thing has come out of a broken system. Out of the broken tipping system, it has made us more attune to give regardless if we see it as charity or not. Again, this is our personal experience. I’m not saying NZ people aren’t generous. But we have certainly seen and experienced some crazy weird generosity from Americans, and I think it stems from tipping 🤷🏻♂️
I just did a quick google search “most generous countries” and Google (which is obviously truth 😂🤦🏻♂️) says that America is in fact the most generous country in the world. With that said, it says that New Zealand is the #3 most generous country in the world!!! No idea where they stem those stats from, but just sharing what we’ve experienced.
Thank you so much for watching and commenting!!!
@@GoandLove funny enough I was looking up the same thing by the look of it USA is only holding onto to spot with the skin of their teeth.
The difference for me is that tipping culture i think its sad that America being one of the most richest countries in the world dont have a high pay rate for workers so they have to be tipped to make ends meat so nz we dont tip because we are paid a pretty good rate health care is free just about having been to hawaii and talked to a waitress who explained it to me i was just saddened bu that i asked her how much she would earn in a week and she told me between $120-$150 😯so i tipped her 2weeks worth if her wages 👏🏽
Awww yea man, things have been really rough for a lot of people
You're a legend mate.
Good on you :)
I was born in England in 1984 and in 1995, I moved to New Zealand. Moving to New Zealand was the hardest thing I ever had to. It really affected me. It took me a long time to adjust to living in New Zealand. New Zealand is so different from England. New Zealand is a beautiful country. I am really fond of Palmerston North. I don't know if I will ever go back to the UK. I hear it's now overcrowded and with COVID-19, going back will now be impossible.
Wow thanks for sharing! How have you adjusted now that you’ve been here so long?
@@GoandLove Yes. Life in NZ hasn't been easy and still isn't.
@@danielwilliamson6180 😩 You’re always welcome to visit and stay with us in Queenstown if you need some time to get away man 😕
@@GoandLove I don't know you and it's difficult at the moment especially with COVID-19.
Lol I don’t mean like tomorrow, I’m just saying in general if you need a break and need to get away. You’re always welcome to message us man 👍🏻👍🏻
Very interesting and cheers 🥰🙏🤩🙏😍🙏🧞♀️
Thanks!!
There are some camping grounds and on the longer national park hikes there are DOC (Department of Conservation) huts free to use BUT the freedom camping was brought into law due to tourists traveling around the country in vans and sleeping in vans wherever they stopped in parks, beside rivers, carparks in towns, playgrounds etc and they dedicated and desposed of toilet paper, sanitary napkins and rubbish wherever they where parked so over the last few years they made it illegal to park/camp anywhere, it had to be a designated camp site with toilet facilities. They called themselves Freedom Campers. NOT ALL FREEDOM CAMPERS WERE that irresponsible but alot were.
Very sad 😞 Good to know!
Interesting vedio dear😍😍😍.thanks for sharing.👍👍👍❤❤
Thanks for watching!
Great video, guys, thank you very much! Although at times the loud volume of the background music made it difficult to hear you speaking. I've noticed this as a general feature in your videos. The natural sounds of the places you visit are nice to hear too. Just a suggestion for your consideration. Your videos are fantastic regardless. Thanks!
Awww wow!!! Thank you so much for letting us know! We’ll make sure to fix that 🥰🥰
Yeah, gotta admit, NZ is pretty cruisy...the ol' whats all the fuss about attitude...😂
Yeah but you have to do Warrant of Fitness, US we can drive a rusty old clunker, not in NZ it wont pass WOF. Not AA but NZTA.govt.nz
Very true! And every state and country actually does it a little different in the states. Some areas require what’s called a Road Emissions Test every year and you car has to pass that test. But MOST areas don’t require that
Main produce growers in NZ are required to keep spray diaries and retailers conduct spray residue analysis testing so with washing your fruit and vegetables as a precaution you can eat main stream NZ grown produce with confidence or you can choose certified organics if that is your preference
Very cool!!!!
Interesting video guys. Now I really want to visit New Zealand.
Reminds me of my first visit to Italy with my wife (our belated honeymoon when she was five months pregnant). We went out to dinner and when we finished we were waiting for the check (in the US as soon as they see you finished they're coming by with the check). We waited for almost 30 minutes before I finally asked the waiter and found out that they won't bring you the check until you ask for it as they don't want to seem as if they're trying to push you out the door.
Lolll it’s those little things that do make a huge difference! Over here in NZ, it’s very rare for a waiter/waitress to bring you the check. You almost always go up to the register to pay
Interestingly the major difference between New Zealand and America is that NZ is not very religious and secular yet people are friendly and decent, going about their lives unconcerned with unsubstantiated claims of the religious.
If you have good credable evidence for the existence of God let's hear it. (Probably a different show
I enjoy the show. Thanks for making it.
Cheers
Yea, my guess is that is all depends on who you’re hanging around with. All of my kiwi friends here seem to be pretty radical and passionate about Jesus and I’m the tame one 😂🤷🏻♂️ But I will say, there is certainly a lot of “characters” in American society 😂
Evidence of God is certainly a long discussion and maybe for another video, and there’s far smarter and more interesting people debating this topic. But a few quick points:
When you see a building, how do you know that someone built it? Because it exists. You don’t know the builder, you don’t know when it was built, but you know it’s there and trust that someone built it because it’s there. It’s a scientific impossibility for nothing to create something. When I look at the trees, ocean, dirt, etc… I know there was a builder for this all, because it exists.
And I’d love to meet you in person one day and explain this more and hear your thoughts on it all, but to take it further than just “existing”, I know God exists because I have a real and personal relationship with him.
Anyways, thanks so much for watching and commenting man!
That was funny listening to your impressions of Kiwi life.
I take it all for granted but I expect I would have culture shock if I moved to the US to live.
Lol, I have been known to give the worst accent impressions 😂 You should hear my British… 😳😂 Thank you for watching and commenting!! We have SO been loving it here more and more everyday!
we definitely do have great return policies, we have the consumer guarantee act that prevents any company from screwing us over. you're right, just no one really bothers to return things.
John 3:16-21 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
20 For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Amen brother!
I’m pretty sure they never ran tests and chucked it out. I can imagine it just being a work joke, like “someone actually sent this to us just expecting a new one hehe. “ if you return something it’s usually with the tag still on with a receipt and within 30 days. It can suck tho. My partner and I brought a new Xbox controller so our son could play with a friend and we forgot to keep the receipt so when we found it turns off every five mins we couldn’t return it. We were so gutted, he still can only play with one. So the new one is just
Lying around now.
I followed up again today and they actually responded a few minutes ago! They told me nothing is wrong with the jacket and I can pay to have them send it back 😂🤦🏻♂️ I’m thinking I just send it to my parents back in the states and they just bring it into the store and they’ll instantly get a new one (and if they share this story, they will surely get a discount on whatever else 😂🤦🏻♂️)
Kia ora. Enjoyed your views. I know you’ve been here awhile already but welcome, nice to have you here.
Thank you so much 🥰🥰🥰 Everyone is so nice here, we’ve felt so blessed to be here!! My wife (Naomi) grew up in New Zealand and I didn’t quite realize what she gave up when I brought her to the states...
Gentle request. Lose the background music please. Hard to concentrate with elevator music on ALL THE TIME> Thanks.
Request is received! I’m pretty new to editing so I’m slowly learning! My latest video does have pauses with no music 😂 But I’m definitely getting more comfortable without the music all the time. Thanks so much for watching and commenting!!!
Just my (unintentionally extended) thoughts on a bunch of the stuff you mentioned:
*Cars:* You presumptions about convertibles are pretty much spot on. The weather in most of the country makes them quite impractical, and even where there's less rain there's still often wind (we don't want to feel the wind in our hair, cos usually it comes from the ocean or Antarctica so it's freezing). Consequently, most convertibles are only in the price range of people who can afford to be so impractical, which also makes them less popular because wealth symbols are quite shunned due to our Tall Poppy Syndrome.
As we lack our own car manufacturer but have access to basically every market, NZ has the highest diversity of car brands and models in the world, but Japanese cars are the most popular because they're cheaper thanks to the reduced shipping costs that come with Japan's proximity. In recent years, there's also been a growing preference for them because replacement parts are cheaper and often readily available, whereas parts for other (especially European) brands are notoriously expensive and might even need to be shipped over especially.
Unlike the DMV, the AA isn't a governmental department but rather an incorporated society that began as a social club for motoring enthusiasts. Over its nearly 120 year history, it's expanded to provide nearly every service a motorist could want or need, including some that might be handled by a government office in other countries, and caters to 1.7M members (probably nearly all the motorists in the country given there's only 5M people).
*Commercialisation:* The commercialisation of nature is generally considered to be quite vulgar and repugnant in NZ, especially if it's done in a readily observable way. I think this probably originates from the Māori custom of _kaitiakitanga_ or "guardianship of nature", which has come to permeate wider Kiwi culture, in part because it's an aspect of traditional Māori culture that was easily transposable into post-colonial NZ society. A lot of early settlers were keen to preserve NZ's natural beauty (after they'd deforested half of it to create farmland, of course), many having escaped from the dirtiest parts of Britain and finding NZ to remind them of the prettiest parts, so it was an easy source of common ground for many settlers and Māori (who by this point had seen half their land be deforested).
In the century since, this focus on guardianship and advocacy for nature gained increased emphasis in Māori culture as it was a means for Māori to retain an aspect of their traditional identity while participating in post-colonial society, which has generally embraced the idea as a means of reconciliation with Māori. This relationship is strengthened by the fact that Māori identity is heavily tied to the land, so protecting the land and protecting Māori go hand-in-hand, which has served to ensure that both are advanced when there is greater public interest in one or the other. In essence, respect for nature is part of the vital fabric that holds New Zealand society together, and most Kiwis of any ethnicity would agree that this respect and care for nature is a fundamental criteria of 'Kiwiness'.
*Communication Style:* I might clarifying that Kiwis do typically _speak_ fast, they just don't _converse_ fast. When we have conversations, we're not in so much of a hurry to get to the point and wrap everything up. The actual pace of speech itself, however, can be quite fast unless we're slowing it down because we think someone might not be keeping up. The reduction of vowels that characterises the Kiwi accent is partly driven by our tendency to speak faster, as properly annunciating vowel sounds takes longer than just replacing them all with an "uh" (we keep stressed vowels, though). Having said that, most South Islanders do speak noticeably slower than North Islanders, for which they are sometimes given a bit of grief as we tend to equate slower speech with lack of education (I don't think Kiwis are alone in that regard).
As far as awkward conversation pauses go, I might suggest trying to keep an ear out for our 'high-rising terminal' (the rising tone that most other accents only use for at the end of a question), which I'm sure, Nick, you've probably noticed and gotten annoyed at. Apart from denoting explicit questions, Kiwis (instinctively) use it for a number of related functions, most pertinently to elicit a response or acknowledgement that the sentence or speech thus far has been properly understood and followed. When we're talking about something that involves a series of more complex ideas or sentences, we'll often throw in an HRT to convey an implied question of "You know what I mean?" or "Are you following me?". Naturally, this can also appear when we have reason to doubt the person's comprehension, such as with a child or an American (not for the same reason, of course, we just assume that foreigners have trouble understanding our accent).
Generally, when using HRT to elicit a response in this manner, we do actually expect a reply and typically pause to wait for one, hence you'll find that a conversation between two Kiwis often involves a lot of "uh-huh", "right", "mmm", "yeah", "oh", and plenty of other interjections or exclamations to provide audible feedback that we have understood and are still listening, especially when someone's saying something rather protracted. Sometimes non-Kiwis might exhibit this kind of back-and-forth discourse when talking on the phone, because you can't read the person's facial expressions to derive the same kind of information, but for whatever reason we Kiwis routinely do it in everyday speech as well. I would suggest trying to pick up on it and implement it yourself if possible, Nick, or at least the responses to it, as failing to offer the appropriate "I'm still listening" responses might lead people to false conclusions, such as that you aren't interested in the current topic of conversation (which will likely prompt them to shift the topic) or that you aren't comprehending them (which might cause them to speak slower). Most people, though, wouldn't think you're rude for missing the responses, it just might lead to awkwardness if they run out of topics that they think you're interested in (though they'll probably just presume you're not following for anyone with an accent).
Perhaps confusingly, one of the other main ways that we use an HRT is to denote that a list isn't yet complete. For example, if someone is formulating a list of groceries that they want you to buy, or are recounting a list of activities that they did in the weekend, they'll often punctuate each list item with an HRT to denote that the list isn't finished and they're still thinking of what comes next. Similar to how a question begs a response, a list item with HRT begs another list item, so we use this to convey that we haven't finished speaking yet and are trying to figure out what to say next. This HRT might intrude into any situation involving suspense or indecision, such as when you're staring at a menu and the teller/server is waiting and staring at you expectantly, so you might say something like "I'm so sorry, I'm just not sure what I _want."_ The HRT at the end there, typically not rising as high as for an actual question, is meant to imply that we acknowledge the inconvenience of making them wait and that our decision is impending (even though it might still take some time). This actually ties into a deeper Kiwi culture of apologetic politeness and its accompanying conventions and mannerisms, but that's a whole different subject best left for another time.
Yeah, this turned out to be so voluminous that I had to split it over two comments:
*Communications:* As you pointed out, the approach to basically everything in NZ is very laid back, so usually the staff won't be in much of a hurry to sort out your issue, and it's taken for granted that you won't be in a hurry either. If you feel like something is taking too long, it is perfectly acceptable to chase people up so long as you're not too rude about it. In fact, if you _don't_ chase them up, it'll often be taken as confirmation that you aren't in any kind of hurry so they should just take their time.
Obviously, in the US, it'd be offensive to suggest that the customer should have to chase up staff to actually do their job, but it's pretty much an accepted fact of life in NZ, even if it tends to annoy us as much as it would any American. Nobody's really that surprised when it happens, and businesses aren't too concerned about losing customers over it because nearly everyone does it so customers don't often have another option. And, for the most part, people don't get too aggravated about it because we're supposed to all be laid back, so without anything to make the matter truly urgent, people usually won't get as indignant over it as might be the case in the US.
*Housing:* You're right about the regional variance in rental terms. In the big cities, most of the landlords are "career landlords" with large rental portfolios that are often managed by a property management company. In order to minimise the time spent tenant hunting, these landlords or their property managers almost always expect you to sign a 1-year lease agreement (the rent is still paid weekly) so that they don't have to bother with finding new tenants a few months down the line. This is also important for their ability to assure the bank that the mortgage payments for their houses are stable, thereby facilitating the procurement of further loans to purchase additional houses because you can never own too many houses (or rather, you can never profit off of too many houses that the bank owns).
On the other hand, the smaller a location is, the less of these leeches there are, and instead most of the landlords are nice old people who bought the house next door several decades ago and rent it out for a modest price to supplement their pension. These are the best landlords, even if some of them can be a bit "eccentric", and they're generally not as concerned about how long you commit to the rental (or if you even fix it with a lease) as they have plenty of time to find new tenants for their one or two houses and aren't using the rent to perpetuate a parasitic property investment scheme. I think it's probably obvious which of these two landlord types I suffer under.
*Organic Food:* Your analysis here is spot on. It's also worth noting that, unlike the word "natural", the label of "organic" is highly and strictly regulated in NZ (I believe the USDA is similarly strict), which means most growers here aren't inclined to bother with something that there isn't much of a market for anyway. I believe it takes quite a bit of time to procure an organic certification, especially if the land you're using has been previously subjected to pesticides, so most existing growers would have to operate for some time as though they were organic without actually having the benefits of being certified as organic (in regards to the small sector of the market that actually cares).
*Camping:* Yeah, designated camping sites is such a norm in NZ that I hadn't even considered the possibility of just camping wherever you please until you guys mentioned it. Like, obviously you can camp wherever you want on private land (that you have lawful access to), but in terms of public land, you're required to use (and often pay for, at a modest price) a designated camping space. And if the land is administered by the Department of Conservation, which basically all the best and most beautiful camping locations are, you can _bet_ that they'll enforce it. If you're outside a designated area, DoC will absolutely find out about you (whether from zealous locals or spy satellites), track you down, and fine you mercilessly. If you're _lucky,_ they'll give you a warning the first time, though only if they think you were being careful and considerate enough about the environment; if you've got a dog, there's rubbish lying around, your campfire isn't safe enough (or is currently prohibited), or you've got enough food for several days but haven't brought anything to contain your "deposits", they will most likely smack you with a fine. And they absolutely do monitor the designated sites no matter how remote they are, so sneaking into a place you're supposed to pay for will also, most likely, result in a fine even if there's nobody there to dob you in.
Local councils are less vigilant at managing their land and the campsites on it (they mostly only have angry locals to worry about, not the conservation of protected environments), but you're still likely to get found out and fined before too long, especially if it's a popular location as the locals are often so fed up with people being a nuisance that they'll ring the council on anyone. So yeah, it's really not a good idea to flout the designated camping rules; DoC is also known to casually hand out brutal bans to people who they've had to fine more than once or twice, and they really don't care much about the "we're from overseas and didn't know any better" excuse, as that just means the potential for environmental damage was even greater. Because that's ultimately what the designated camping rules are about: protecting the environment.
Those campsites are chosen very carefully, to avoid known habitats of endangered wildlife and other sensitive areas, to minimise fallout from accidental fires, to contain and moderate the environmental impacts of human activity, and to facilitate institutional support that ranges from the provision of environmentally appropriate toilet facilities to keeping track of your whereabouts so that people will actually notice if you have an accident and go missing (especially given, as you mentioned, cell service can be unreliable). It's actually a very fine example of how Americans and Kiwis think very differently; in the US, our measures would be seen by most as an encroachment by the government on personal liberty, while in NZ we see it as the government expectedly and responsibly looking after people and the environment.
I seem to have gotten quite carried away with this comment, so I don't really expect you to have read this far, but if you do, I hope my small essay was at least somewhat interesting. Also, I've made sure to subscribe because apparently I forgot to do so even though I've watched and enjoyed a few of your videos now. 😅
Wow, bravo!!!!!! That was incredibly insightful to read!!!! Thank you so much, spot on my friend!!!!
Tipping is generally a NO NO in N Z as employers must pay a living wage to employees, unlike the US where so many jobs rely on tips to meet a living wage.
NZ is awesome to do that :) Strangely, the employees in America actually make more due to tips though so I don’t think tipped employees are complaining. Hey; thanks so much for watching and commenting!
You're on the beach in Shoes! Why? You're not proper Kiwi's unless you go barefoot. Your body and your health will thank you for it.
Lol we won’t make that mistake again!!
What are some differences you've seen or imagine there is between American and New Zealand culture?
I always imagined USA were the World Series Champions, and NZ were in the Minors. The only thing we were good at was sport. Which reminds me, can you teach us American Football? Please lol
You seem to be the ONLY Kiwi even remotely interested in learning America Football 😂
Schooling
Ahhh, I bet! Our daughter isn’t in school yet, but I imagine there’s a big difference!
@@GoandLove yes from age they start to the years, curriculum lots
My goodness, where have you been? Almost everything you said is the opposite in the north island. Never heard term Hamptons in relation to NZ. Thought that is a place in America with the style of a country white washed look. I had real difficulty camping off the beaten track in the US, signs informing you do not park or stop here etc, heavy handed officialdom everywhere, here in nz’s north island no problem - you can go nearly anywhere. Must be a South Island thing with all the tourists there councils trying to stop random campers polluting the area. Never heard of renting a place for less than 3 months, nearly 6months or more standard. Hardly ever find a furnished rental here. Doc visits $60 here not $30. Fibre in main areas only but not rural. Cell phone reception can be blocked by mountainous regions here too though. People outside cities & suburbia live rural on lifestyle blocks. Eg. A house and barn/workshop on 10 acres, only then would you find any animals/sheep unless you are a farmer. Returning goods extremely easy in all main stores, Briscoes, m10, bunnings, farmers, warehouse, spotlight, Bbnb, etc etc. No problem, but occasionally they may ask for your receipt to prove you got it there. Think you guys need to visit the north and see how different it is.
Nice!!!! Yea, we’ve only spent about 2 months up in the north island, but we’re also not big city people so I guess that would change our experience quite a bit. And the “Hampton style” thing was first introduced to me by someone in the north island 🤷🏻♂️
Anyways, north island sounds really nice!!!
@@GoandLove cheers, have a great time down there, its beautiful in the south. Hope you continue to have some lovely experiences in NZ.
Thank you!!!
So interesting! It actually reminded me a lot of the differences in culture from the US to the UK. I used to work in retail so I kind of like NZs mindsets - returns used to stress me out 🤣 so crazy about Target! My jaw dropped! I also like less commercialized places, spending the holidays in the UK was so cozy and quaint- so different from what I’m used to. I also like the minimalist design. I definitely can see what you mean about different culture work life balance - when I fist met Chris I couldn’t believe he literally had months paid vacation lol crazy! We do have fiber optic internet - but that was p selling point for our neighborhood 🤣 That’s so cool that rentals are fully furnished. I love decorating, but that would be so convenient. It’s nice that NZ seems to care more where food comes from - so crazy about grain fed meat 🥩. So interesting about the healthcare. When Chris moved to the state’s he just couldn’t believe how much it costs but was blown away with how quickly he was seen for everything here. Loved this so much guys! So fun to celebrate differences and learn about NZ! 💕❤️
Haha wow, yea - you have definitely seen a similar lifestyle to NZ!!! Love this comment, it was like notes were taken on the whole video 😂
@@GoandLove 🤣 ✏️
Just FYI, Target Furniture has no connection at all to the US Target.
@@big_badaboom well that makes a lot more sense 🤣
Wow, really?! I figured since it had the exact same logo/colors/font it had to be the same company but they just choose to focus on furniture here
Yep, the Consumer Guarantee Act here in NZ specifically states that the business does not have to give you a refund if you change your mind. You are, however, protected if the goods are faulty, and many companies will grant a refund if you change your mind if you have proof of purchase provided the goods are in original condition and therefore can be re-sold.
We kind of assume you wouldn't buy a thing if you didn't want it.
Yeah, I wanted the jacket. It was just a faulty jacket and just a horrible customer service experience :( Here's the full story of that experience. It was just a mess: th-cam.com/video/9cBXpmHRowk/w-d-xo.html
America’s the land of plenty and lots of choices hence the consumer is the king!… The USA developed with innovations, work ethic, entrepreneurship and industries whereas a country like New Zealand, or should I say a monarchy like New Zealand, is still developing and whatever development it achieved so far, it was under a paternalistic socialist society where the citizens/subjects looked upon their government so solve all or most of their problems/issues!… That’s why it’s not the cultural norm down under to work hard to succeed (tall poppy syndrome) or put in an extra effort to satisfy a customer!
Nz is expensive but there’s many other stuff that cost nothing budget well is a must do
Yea, we find it overall cheaper compared to the states, but just much less accessible to just about everything
Indian mango chicken kinda like butter chicken and thats awesome to garlic and cheese naan yummy.
Ahh I’ll have to try it!
I want to move from Oregon to NZ. Cant stand the USA anymore!
Oregon is in our top 2 favorite states, and unfortunately... I don’t blame you. I think you will absolutely love it here!
@@GoandLove out of curiosity what's your other favorite state? In terms of states I do love oregon, but I think I need a more equal and fair society to live in where corruption is not rampant!~
Yea, we had good friends in Medford where it was apparently a bit less one-sided with everything (at least that’s what our friend told us 🤷🏻♂️), but we fell in love with North Carolina!!!! Almost as beautiful as Oregon and pretty amazing in just about every category there is.
Plenty of bullying by bureaucrats. NZ is embracing communism at an alarming rate. The white colonialist are all evil mentality is rampant. Housing laws have been terrible for decades. The housing "crisis" is entirely government created. The media is practically state owned propaganda. These are not insurmountable problems but they suit the powers that be so are unlikely to get better.
@@GoandLove i see you like Ben Nichols comment. So do you agree that NZ is embracing communism and have an all White Colonialists are evil mentality?
Welcome to NZ ,we work hard so we wanna play it's a natural play ground,You cannot expect it to be like the states, We are known for being laid back ,yes sometimes customer service sucks (except for TCB SKI & Board, Ohakune ) Just take it in and adapt or don't. We are not perfect but pretty close !! Enjoy our country !!
You definitely are pretty close to being perfect!!! Thank you so much for watching and commenting :)
$9 to transfer a car!? I live in the states and paid a few hundred to transfer my car into another state.
Ohhhh yea! Amazing, right?! I’m from
Chicago and would easily pay $300+ in the title transfer + taxes. We were very shocked and a little confused when we bought our first car here
Buying and selling a motor vehicle is even easier than you suggested. All you need to do is log onto the NZTA website and enter some basic details - like the license plate and the names of both parties. There are different options for the seller and the buyer. It takes 2 minutes!
Oh yea, I forgot there is an online way to do it!!!! We didn’t have NZ licenses when we bought our car, so we decided to go to the Post to make sure it was all done right 🤷🏻♂️
It’s seriously the most ridiculous and expensive process in America to buy a car
This was such an informative video so cool. And I'm from South Africa, but I enjoyed it
Aww thank you!!! We love South Africa!! One day we’ll be back over on your side of the world 🥰
USA is a great country. Everyone got their own perspective.
I LOVE America 🥰
Nice friend ilove this video enjoy keep safe
Thank you!!!
Waitangi day is essentially the NZ equivalent in of the 4th of July it's celebrates the founding of nz
They essentially celebrate the same thing, but also the opposite…
The 4th of July is called “Independence Day” because it’s the day the 13 colonies declared their independence from England, which started the Revolutionary War.
Waitangi Day is the day the treaty was signed to not go to war and instead live in dependence/peace with each other.
@@GoandLove agreed but both celebrate the founding of each nation
Under NZ fair trading act and CV ond consumer guarentees act, you have the right to return goods anytime you like
In practice, that’s not true though. I wish it was! Or at least it’s much harder to return things compared to the States. Ask any American and they will confirm this 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks so much for watching btw!!!
Tipping is required in the US because the staff are not making enough from their wages to live on. In other parts of the world, tipping isn't ingrained as the staff are earning a much higher wage that allows them to afford basic living requirements.
Thanks for watching and commenting!! So it might sound strange if you haven’t experienced it, but 99% of American hospitality workers would prefer the tip method over getting minimum wage. If you do a good job, you get tipped and make a really good living (a much better living than a lot of other professions). There’s a reason to have great service.
Of course, the downside is if you don’t do a good job, you sometimes won’t get a tip. Honestly, you have to do a pretty horrible thing to not get a tip. I actually don’t ever remember ever not giving a tip. Maybe once I gave a 10% tip instead of the usual 20%, but can’t actually remember doing that.
And tipping is never required. It’s done out of appreciation for great service, but never required (though it is expected).
I paid for elective surgery, as I didn't want to wait 2 years. I only had to wait 3 months to go private
3 months is still kinda a long wait, but glad you were able to get it done!!!
I am in Dunedin just up the road... and the Catlins is my playground when I take the Ducati on a day trip... We also sometimes go camping down there as well...
A few years back they opened the market on imports for second hand cars and a lot came from Japan... but there are also European vehicles as well... and the odd American ...
Nice!!!! Man, you’re living the dream with a Ducati!!!!
Coastal Taranaki (Surf Highway SH45) has a speed bridge that replaced a one-way bridge in the 70s for construction of Maui Gas Field. I think it was the first, besides may be Auckland.
I absolutely love the 1 way bridges!!!! They add to the “adventurous” side of NZ :)
When i was in Retail back in NZ,it was against the law to refuse a refund,we would then refund on a Pro Rata basis.
Very interesting!
Depends if the good is faulty / not fit for purpose. Covered by the Consumer Guarantees Act en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consumer_Guarantees_Act_1993
We Nzers can even drive sedans so smoothly easily on gravels
👍🏻👍🏻
Hi Team, I hope the new place in Queenstown is going well. Back in level 1 yahh!! :-)
Right?!? And we’re loving it man :)
Ah yeah something tells me me that NZ weather kinda makes convertibles bit silly. In other words in NZ it rains.....a lot
Lol this winter has seriously been the worst!!! So much rain 😂
@@GoandLove yea this one's been a beaut. Some stats Hamilton where I grew up gets on average 3m 10 of f rain annually. Westland in the south island gets up to 7 m 23 feet of rain a year. That rivals the Amazon rain forest and is only slightly behind the wettest place on earth which is a small hill station in India which gets absolutely drenched during the monsoon
@@johanmeischke9189 lol crazy 😛
Bro, is your Wife Kiwi. Sounds like it.
Yup!! But she lived in the states the past 6 years and lost her accent. It’s slowly coming back now that we’re back in NZ 😍
I'm from Auckland, i miss home, love this vid, thank you
Awww, yea NZ is pretty special 🥰
Why is it,some Kiwis can live in the states and still keep their Kiwi accent,like Rachel Hunter,yet others can't?.
Right?!? My wife has been out of NZ since for the past 12 years though, so it has been awhile. The main reason my wife was kinda “forced” to adapt her accent was because she was working as a Registered Nurse in the states and it was very hard for the patients to understand her and she wanted to give them the best care possible, so worked on pronouncing things so her patients would understand.
@@GoandLove that makes a lot of sense.
No I'm not working this Weekend, LoL
Love it!
beef feed grass is better health wise than grain feed beef
No debate there, 100% agree!
... but we have definitely found that we like the taste of the grain fed better 😂🤷🏻♂️
Okay, so I now I wanna go live in NZ! It's so beautiful, wow! I think I like the NZ side of the equation on just about everything except store returns, but certainly that's not a big deal. (Really, my heart is so in Africa that I think of your NZ stay as a detour on your way to Madagascar 😂 ... Just sayin'. I look forward to those posts one day!) Thanks for posting.. so nice to see you three! Oh, did you make a housing decision yet? Been praying...♥️
Thank you SO much for praying!!! Yes, we made a decision :) Well let everyone know soon! And we think the exact same as you in regards to this amazing detour :)
@@GoandLove Love you guys! Keep on enjoying NZ. You're in the right place at the right time. ♥️
Really enjoyed this video. Well done!
Thanks so much!!!! Means a lot to us!!!
Corporations do not control all aspects of our lives as they do in the USA.
Thanks for watching and commenting!!
freedom camping is illegal to protect our environment. without it, tourists would decimate our forests and reserves. we have very strict environmental policies and will even sometimes close a natural attraction to prevent people from visiting if it gets too polluted, and major warnings and fines are put out for offenders.
It’s pretty amazing actually how well everything has been protected!!
@@GoandLove it hasn't always been this way. unfortunately, a lot of what you see is not native forest, but planted non native pine forests after almost all of our native land was destroyed for animal agriculture. the famous rolling hills we have are actually man made, all that green was alpine forest and hilly sub tropical forest. a lot of replanting is going on, the south island is a bit better because the larger mountains don't make great pasture land, but yeah. so, it looks beautiful, but it used to look a lot more amazing before european mass industrialisation :( so we fiercely protect what little we have left
Thanks for this informative video! I’m in the US now, will be an empty nester in about a year, am pondering a move to NZ. The more I research, the more impressed I am.
One question: could you elaborate on the weather? I’ve read things about the weather (rainy, windy, unpredictable), but most videos I see shows otherwise. Perhaps it varies depending on where in NZ you are?
In regards to the weather in New Zealand its a very narrow country and the weather is fickle, places I've lived Waikato/unpredictable, BOP(Tauranga) Predictable, Northland/unpredictable. now some of the Southisland looks very predictable. Major range of hills/mountains play a huge part.
To be fair alot of lord of the rings back drop are just random farms the the owners let people walk on
Very good point. I still get so excited 😂
Waitangi day in 2021 wow it's July the 7th 2022 now. I experienced Waitangi day that day, when I came back from Australia when I was away for 38.5yrs. It was my first experience of a Waitangi day myself. I lived in Australia since I was 8yrs old. I'm back for good. I know what you are saying, I'm Maori and experience N.Z for the first time too. So I know how you are feeling. It's such a difference in experience. I boondock myself in New Zealand it's called freedom camping in translation. Been doing it ever since.
lol boondocking it is the way to go for sure :) Glad to hear you're back for good though and able to enjoy your amazing country!!
We dont tip because we pay food service workers better so they don't need to rely on tips to survive
Kiaora to our ex kiwi whanau, welcoming you back to your root's.
Just reminder,most of Americans that l have met throughout my journey. Have this mind concept Kiwi's are part of Australia 🤦🤦...
That is an insult to us Kiwi's 😉🤣...
Australian has nothing on our beautiful country. Australia is dried with hot humidity weather (24/7)lot of sufferings.
Welcome back home ex kiwi whanau 🙂🇳🇿✊💚🖤🇳🇿🇳🇿🇳🇿 it's good to have you back.
NZ is pretty much better than Australia in every way!!! Our experience when we lived in the States was the majority of people have never heard of New Zealand 🤷🏻♂️ I say let them visit Australia 🤠😜