New Zealand and Kiwi tid bits...

Some random observations:

Language, yes we all speak English, but here are a few things, I've had to ask about...

• Boot of the car = Trunk of the car
• I pay my mortgage every fortnight = I pay my mortgage every 2 weeks
• How much would you like to top up? = How much credit do you want to buy on your calling card?
• Don't forget your togs and your jandals = Don't forget your swim suit and your flip flops
• A chilly bin = a drink cooler
• Sweet as = all good, I concur with what you propose
• Fringe = bangs
• Bloody, Cheeky, Dodgy - all a result of British influence. Alive and well here in NZ.
• Jumper/hoodie = sweatshirt
• The letter Z is pronounced Zed

Additional Notes:

• You must end your sentence with AYE for confirmation...ie. That guy needed a shower, aye? I can now hear aye in my head!
• People from New Zealand are referred to as Kiwis, not because of the fruit, because of the Kiwi bird that is national symbol. The Kiwi bird is flightless and nocturnal so it's not easy to spot. The Kiwi is endangered, but is making a come back.
• Pounamu (Greenstone) is the traditional name for local jade from Aotearoa. Typically worn as a necklace. There are different meaning for the shapes and they correspond the the world. Descriptives after native birds, fish and plants are linked to storytelling and some by location.
• Fat Freddy's Drop and The Black Seeds = Bands from Wellington, NZ
• Pineapple lump is a favorite kiwi candy (chocolate covered pineapple candy) and L&P is a favorite softdrink (refreshing, similar to ginger ale).
• Food is really good here. Lots of fresh veggies and variety!
• The New Zealand Dollar is currently equal to about .77 cents USD
• Prices are not cheap low. Some things are definitely more expensive here than the US. A few things are cheaper, but not many.
• There are no coins less than 10 cents. No pennies or nickels. All prices are rounded to the nearest 10 cent.
• The public bathrooms are generally really clean. No need to BYO TP here!
• At certain major crosswalks, ALL directions of traffic stop and pedestrians can cross both ways AND diagonally across the intersection - cool!
• Many cafes are BYO - you can bring your own wine, beer, etc.