Kiwi Lingo

New Zealand, known for its stunning landscapes and friendly people, also boasts a unique and colorful array of slangWhether you're planning a visit, moving there, or just curious, understanding Kiwi slang can help you feel more at home and connect with locals. Here's a guide to some typical New Zealand slang that will help you navigate conversations like a true Kiwi.

1. Kia Ora

Not a slang word but a traditional Te Reo Māori greeting, "Kia ora" means "hello,". It's commonly used by Kiwis of all backgrounds.

2. Chur

"Chur" is a versatile word that can mean "thanks," "awesome," or "cheers." It's a go-to expression of appreciation or agreement.

3. Sweet As

This phrase means "great" or "no problem." It's often used to express satisfaction or that everything is okay. For example, "That’s sweet as!"

4. Choice

"Choice" is another way of saying "excellent" or "fantastic." If something is particularly good, you might hear, "That’s choice!"

5. Bro / Sis

"Bro" (for brother) and "sis" (for sister) are terms of endearment used between friends and family. It’s a way to show camaraderie and friendship.

6. Yeah Nah

This expression can be a bit confusing. "Yeah nah" means "no," while "nah yeah" means "yes." It’s a way of softening a response or showing indecision.

7. Togs

"Togs" refers to a swimsuit. If someone asks if you've brought your togs, they want to know if you’re ready for a swim.

8. Jandals

"Jandals" are flip-flops or sandals. They’re a staple in the New Zealand wardrobe, especially in the summer.

9. Loo

"The loo" is the bathroom or toilet. If you need to find one, just ask where the nearest loo is.

10. Bach

A "bach" (pronounced 'batch') is a holiday home, typically by the beach. It’s a place to relax and enjoy some downtime.

11. Wop-Wops

"The wop-wops" refer to a remote or rural area. If someone lives in the wop-wops, they live far from urban centers.

12. Dairy

A "dairy" is a convenience store or corner shop. It’s where you go to buy milk, bread, and other essentials.

13. Smoko

"Smoko" is a break during work, traditionally for smoking, but now used to mean any short break, often for a snack or drink.

14. She’ll be right

This phrase means everything is fine or everything will be okay.

15. Bugger All

"Bugger all" means very little or nothing. If you have bugger all to do, you’re not busy at all.

16. Sus

A term to describe a person or situation which is suspicious.

17. Hard Yakka

"Hard yakka" refers to hard work. If something requires hard yakka, it means it’s going to be tough and require effort.

18. Kiwi

While "Kiwi" is a term for New Zealanders, it also refers to the native flightless bird. It’s a symbol of national pride.

19. The ABs

Abbreviation for our national rugby team the All Blacks. Kiwis are rugby mad and you will often find the ABs as a topic of conversation after a big game

20. Up the Wahs

Another sport terminology for rallying support for the Warriors rugby league team.

Learning New Zealand slang is a fun way to connect with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Whether you’re greeting someone with "Kia ora," complimenting something as "choice," or just figuring out what to wear to the beach with your "togs" and "jandals," these expressions will help you sound like a true Kiwi.