One of the most sought-after countries to visit for an unforgettable vacation is New Zealand. The gorgeous snow-capped mountains, incredible hiking trails, dynamic Maori culture, and lots more make this modest-sized country the perfect place for a holiday. And although the landscapes, wildlife and experiences are new and different there’s also a sense of welcome, and a feeling of a home away from home and I am not exaggerating one bit! The reason why visiting New Zealand feels like visiting a home away from home is because, although it is different to India in many ways, it does have some surprising parallels and shared values with India.
Kiwis (people of New Zealand) love cricket—the sport that always brings our entire nation together. And if you thought Mehmaan Nawazi was just in our culture, wait until you visit New Zealand! They’re super warm and friendly while hosting guests and hold the same values of treating guests with love and respect, just like us. Also, anybody who grew up with Indian culture knows how, at least during childhood, our meals used to hit different when we shared them while sitting on the floor with our family. Turns out New Zealanders also share the same love of enjoying meals with their family! It gives such a happy feeling to know how culturally similar the two countries are despite being so far from each other on the globe.
Another beautiful cultural similarity between India and New Zealand is the importance of family and respecting elders—considering everyone a brother/sister, imbibing the feeling of brotherhood.
In Maori, the indigenous language of New Zealand, the word whanau means family. You’ll notice how the people there hold high importance for the family when you visit New Zealand. Just like in the Indian culture, Kiwis believe whanau goes beyond blood relations and extended families. They too consider their ancestors, neighbours, friends, community, and even the nature around them like mountain rivers and lakes as an integral part of their family. How beautiful and warm is the culture here, no?
All of this reminds us of how we share a lot of our cultural beliefs and traditions with a country that’s tucked away in the corner of the world. If this doesn’t make you want to pack your bags and catch that flight to New Zealand, experience the warmth of New Zealand with your own eyes through this beautiful video A Message By New Zealand below.
Heart-warming, right? If you ever visit New Zealand, be sure to sit down with the local people and have a chat over a hot cuppa or a glass of wine. You’ll make some unforgettable memories!
Have you ever visited New Zealand? If yes, then let us know how your experience was in the comments below.
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This post is in partnership with New Zealand Tourism.