What is 'Kiwiana'? What objects best represent New Zealand's local culture?

Sure, no problem. That's an excellent question; many people are curious about this term when they first arrive in New Zealand.

What is "Kiwiana"?

Simply put, "Kiwiana" refers to things that are quintessentially New Zealand.

Think of it as a nation's "national memory" or "cultural quirks and produce." It doesn't refer to high art or official national symbols, but rather to the quirky, nostalgic elements woven into everyday Kiwi lives. These are things that make people smile with instant recognition, thinking, "Ah, that's so Kiwi!"

Kiwiana items are usually inexpensive, maybe even a bit outdated, but they represent a simple, unpretentious, self-sufficient New Zealand lifestyle and identity.

What are the Icons of New Zealand Culture (Kiwiana Icons)?

Here are some classic Kiwiana icons. If you live in New Zealand, you'll encounter them everywhere.

1. Jandals (Flip-Flops)

The undisputed number one national footwear. The Kiwi love for jandals is ingrained. Whether going to the supermarket, the beach, or even less formal restaurants, you'll see people wearing them. They represent the Kiwi attitude towards life: relaxed, casual, and outdoorsy. For Kiwis, jandals are practical footwear almost year-round.

2. L&P (Lemon & Paeroa)

This is a uniquely New Zealand lemonade. Its slogan, "World famous in New Zealand", has itself become part of Kiwiana, perfectly encapsulating the Kiwi sense of self-deprecating humour. In the North Island, you can find a giant L&P bottle sculpture, a popular tourist photo spot. Drinking an ice-cold L&P on a summer day is a shared memory for many Kiwis.

3. Buzzy Bee Pull-Toy

A brightly colored wooden bee toy. When pulled, its wings spin and make a "click-clack" sound. Since the 1940s, it's been part of every Kiwi child's childhood. Even Britain's Prince William had one as a child. It represents innocent, happy childhood memories.

4. Meat Pie

Although originating in the UK, the meat pie has been wholeheartedly adopted and elevated to national fast-food status in New Zealand. You can find piping hot pies at gas stations, corner stores (Dairies), and bakeries. A classic "Steak and Cheese" pie is a lunch staple for many blue-collar workers and students. It represents Kiwi food culture: unpretentious, hearty, and convenient.

5. No. 8 Wire Mentality

This one is abstract but fundamental. No. 8 wire was once the standard fencing wire on New Zealand farms. The "No. 8 wire mentality" describes the Kiwi ingenuity and problem-solving approach of "making do with what you have." Something broken? Don't rush to buy a new one; try fixing it with No. 8 wire. It symbolizes Kiwi independence, resourcefulness, and the DIY (Do-It-Yourself) pioneer spirit.

6. Paua Shell

Paua is a species of abalone unique to New Zealand. The inside of its shell has an intensely vibrant blue-green, iridescent, rainbow-like colour. It's not only an important decorative item in Māori culture (e.g., used for the eyes in carvings) but also widely crafted into souvenirs like necklaces, earrings, and ornaments. This beautiful lustre represents the unique beauty of New Zealand's seascape and Māori cultural heritage.

7. Gumboots (Wellingtons/Rubber Boots)

New Zealand is an agricultural country with frequent rain, so sturdy gumboots are essential for farm and rural life. They symbolize the Kiwi connection to the land and down-to-earth rural culture. Every year, the town of Taihape even holds a "Gumboot Day" festival, featuring a competition to see who can throw a gumboot the farthest.

In essence, Kiwiana is these seemingly ordinary symbols that carry shared Kiwi emotions and memories. Together, they paint a picture of New Zealand: a country that is relaxed, practical, nature-loving, blessed with gentle humour, and proud of its unique identity.