A New Zealander's opinion of the USA?

Question

Moving to New Zealand is almost a reality for me and I was just wondering what the average New Zealander thinks about the US and Americans in general. I know the US isn't the most popular country in the world, but I'd like to know what I could possibly face. I'm not a super conservative from Texas or Alabama or anything. I'm a liberal outgoing guy from San Francisco so any advice would be great.

Answer 1

not a fan

Answer 2

Integrate asap. Learn what kiwis like and DO NOT start up with, "Well, back in the US we do this or that, or have this or that." That nonsense does not go down well, kiwis don't give a S**t what you did before, it's important what you do there.

Answer 3

Alot of people think that America is up itself and violent because  of all the wars it starts. Most New Zealanders are frustrated of America because of their constant pressure for us to send more troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. The NZ defense force is not very big and is used to help smaller countries in the pacific and to stop poaching.

You may get labelled when you come here but just ignore the people who do.

Answer 4

i cant stand the faith based government and the arrogance and ignorance of some of middle america. some of the political actions are disgusting and they get away with it cos the average citizen has no knowledge of whats going on in the rest of the world.

americans dress terribly. you really really do.

accent often annoying

you often dont get sarcasm

american humor isnt funny

dont be too energetic or loud. also be modest. new zealanders have what they call a "tall poppy syndrome" which means we dont like people who loud about their accomplishments. we like modesty

most of us are atheists

Answer 5

I agree 100% with everything james said above. Also American and New Zealand cultures are really quite different. Especially when it comes to working, more often than not americans clash with new Zealanders in the workplace just because Americans seem to be a little to big for their boots. Also our social policy is a way ahead of Americans (For example - First country in the world to give women the vote, first transgender member of parliament...to many examples to list) No doubt if your well educated, especially about different cultures/ countries you'll be fine.

Answer 6

I found the accents some-what irritating.

I disagree with Bush and the war. I dislike the 'in your face' attitude of SOME Americans. I would much rather be a New Zealander than an American. We're brought up to be more modest I think. We don't brag about things as much.

We're not as religious either. Teachers are not allowed to teach religion in public schools.

We're not as patriotic either. Don't get me wrong, we're proud to be Kiwi, but not as proud as some Americans. Like you wouldn't really see many New Zealand flags outside homes.

Of course I'm not going to judge the whole of America based on the minority I have met (in person). A lot of our judgment based on Americans is from what we see on Tv or in the movies or on the news. I've never lived in America, but based on the tv I've seen I can imagine what it's like.

However, I'm sure you'll love it here and it wont be difficult to settle in, and I'm sure you're a great person

...

Answer 7

I make no secret that I am almost horrified at the US attitude toward any culture that is not 100% democratic. The fact they invaded Iraq without the blessing of the UN appalls me. The US government must accept that the "war on Terror" is a war that they must take a good long look at themselves and their foreign policy. However along with probably the rest of the world do not have anything against the average American.

If you come here you will face a bit if stick from people like myself. But it would not be personal and we would not hold you personally responsible.

We don't give a rats if you are a liberal, democrat or any other leaning. Politics are not something most of us give much thought to.

We are a small country and we like things just the way they are. I am quite sure you would enjoy it here so come on over.

Answer 8

In my opinion you folk from any part of USA are really great. I have dealt with many on the Internet over the last 2 years and have not found anyone who has been offensive, rude or unfriendly to me.

Answer 9

My friend moved here from Oregon.

Say you hate Bush and we'll love u

Answer 10

Just say that you are Canadian....and you'll be sweet ;)

Nah you guys are alright I actually love the accent.

The ones I have met are definately not what you see on TV and movies.