The Languages In New Zealand And How Interesting It Is For Immigrants

Although New Zealand is mostly a country that speaks English, it is important that immigrants in the country learn more about how to communicate there. After all, not all people may speak English and there are certain things about communication that the locals do. With that, here are some of the basic things that immigrants in New Zealand should know about the languages in the country and how previous immigrants there have found the entire thing interesting.

 

The languages in New Zealand

 

What most people do not know is that New Zealand is home to three official languages. These are English, the Maori language (which is also known as Te Reo Maori), and the New Zealand Sign Language. These are different from one another and those who are interested in learning new languages would definitely have a grand time in the country.

 

Speaking English

 

Immigrants would most certainly observe that when the locals of New Zealand speak English, they would have a strong accent and they would also speak quite quickly. They would also use slang that are unique in New Zealand. Sometimes, they may also use some words or phrases from the te reo Maori language. Immigrants who are still new in the country may have a hard time trying to understand what the locals are saying especially if slang and te reo Maori are used. But in time, they would become quite familiar with this and can easily converse and understand the locals.

 

Getting used to the accent

 

New immigrants may have a hard time understanding the strong accent that the locals have. However, it is highly suggested that they should not stop conversing with the locals as this would help them get used to the accent. Aside from that, immigrants in New Zealand can also listen to the local radio stations or also watch local TV shows and soap operas to help them get used to the accent. Should they be speaking with locals and there are some things that they do not understand, simply request the locals to speak more slowly or ask them to kindly explain what they just said. Keep in mind that the locals are friendly and helpful and they would be more than happy to help out.

 

The other two languages

 

Te reo Maori is a language that is used by the locals in New Zealand and it is a great reflection of the culture of the country. Learning the common phrases is quite interesting.

 

The New Zealand Sign Language is the most commonly used language by the deaf community in the country. It also reflects the culture of the country as there are signs in this language that make use of Maori concepts which cannot be found in the sign languages in other countries.

 

 

 

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