New Zealand does not just offer a new home for many immigrants – it also offers an exciting experience for them. With its rich culture and great diversity, immigrants definitely have a lot of things to explore and learn about once they get to the country. As new people living in New Zealand, immigrants have to start learning about the customs and traditions that the indigenous people, known as Maori, have. And for many immigrants, learning about such is not really a difficult thing to do. In fact, they find it to be quite refreshing and very interesting.
There are many aspects that belong to the Maori culture that
immigrants are exposed to since it is seen and reflected in the daily life of
the locals. It is a great way for immigrants to be familiar with it, and by
learning about it, they get to know more and understand better the history and
culture of New Zealand. One of the important things to know about the Maori
culture is tikanga.
What is tikanga?
Tikanga is actually the way of doing things or behavior of
the Maori. For these people, it is all about making sure that they behave in a way
that is respectful and appropriate to their culture. It is behaving so that
they are also respectful to other people.
How tikanga is practiced varies and it depends on the tribe,
sub tribe, or community meeting places. But generally, the differences are not
too significant.
What are some tikanga behaviors?
Removing shoes or footwear before entering a home is one of
these. This is something that is not only practiced in Maori culture but it is
also practiced in other countries aside from New Zealand. If one is unsure if
removing shoes or footwear is something expected of visitors, it is best to ask
the host.
Another thing is touching another person’s head. In some
countries, doing this is not a big deal. However, for the Maori, it is. The head
is a sacred thing for these folks. That is why one should avoid touching another
person’s head. However, if one is asked to do so, then that is the only time
that it is allowed and not considered rude or disrespectful.
Hats are used on the head so it follows that such headwear
should not be put on tables where food is eaten. Hats should be given much care
and given the right treatment, just like other things that are related to the
head like pillows.
Tables used for eating should also be given proper respect. Sitting
on them is considered rude behavior in New Zealand. It is also unwise to put bags
on them. Pillows or cushions are also used as back support, but not as things
to sit on.
Start working on your plan to move to New Zealand now. Find
the best program that will help you here at Global Visa Support: http://globalvisasupport.com/nz.html.
Schedule your appointment now with the Global Visa Support
team to get expert help on moving to NZ: http://www.globalvisasupport.com/contacts.html.
No comments:
Post a Comment