The Adventure Series III

Adventures in Culture  Part 2

Last time I discussed some Maori culture and this time I want to address the European culture that is here.  There have been many immigrants over the years from many countries.  There are Germans and Austrians, Irish and Scots and Englanders, French, Italians, Scandinavians and several other cultures represented.  Most of them are hard working, independent people who were looking for a new life here in New Zealand and many of them have found it.

They have remained to themselves or mixed with the Maoris.  Whatever the case, it has made for a lively and interesting blend of people and customs.  We have met people from each of these areas while here.  The one thing they have in common is their open, friendly attitudes for the most part.  We have been warmly welcomed by almost all of them.  That has been a big plus for us.  From the start, it has seemed like home away from home.  We couldn't ask for more.

The only difficulty I have run into is trying to understand some of their speech but hey, what's new?  We have had that almost our whole lives with the deaf culture.  Interestingly enough, the two things I have not come to meet here are a person of African descent or a deaf person.  We have pretty much met dozens of other types of people.  I have only gotten into trouble a couple of times and both of them were over misunderstandings over the way we use different words but that happens to everyone.

I told you about a little couple we met not long ago.  They are truly wonderful people.  They are Irish Kiwis.  They became friendly with us from the first day they met us and we with them.  It was so comfortable in their home.  They treat us like good friends and they have become very important in our lives. While we were there at their home, I noticed a beautiful picture of the two of them taken on their farm many years ago.  It is a classic photo of two lovely people and for me it represents all that is good about the people we have met here.  I asked for a copy and it has a proud place on my mantle.  It means something very special to me and always will.

These people and many others have come here or followed in their families footsteps as hard working, honorable people, dedicated to their families, their work and their country.  These kind of people came here looking to continue something good and have done so.  They all help make New Zealand what it is today, a welcoming, warm country where we feel right at home.