Four Fun Things: Cultural Glimmers Edition

Have you ever come across the notion of 'glimmers' - those tiny moments of sheer awe that can turn an ordinary day into something extraordinary? I stumbled upon this concept while scrolling through social media and later stumbled upon it again in a blog I follow regularly. I instantly fell in love with the idea. We often talk about things that 'trigger' us, words or memories that can cast a shadow over our days. But what about acknowledging and celebrating those little things that bring light, energy, and wonder to our lives?

It's a bit over two months into our New Zealand adventure, and I thought it was high time to pause for a moment and share some unique Kiwi experiences that consistently bring a smile to my face - cultural 'glimmers,' if you will.

Barefoot Bliss

I had read about this peculiar Kiwi habit before arriving - the nonchalant way people, especially children, roam about in public barefoot. But reading about it is one thing; witnessing it is an entirely different delight. I can't help but smile when I see kids gleefully dashing out of schoolyards on rainy afternoons, their tiny feet splashing through puddles without a care in the world.

As a child and teenager, I shared a similar love for running around barefoot on the lush green lawns of our Lexington, KY home. The negative/pejorative stereotypes of the South or Kentucky, where people allegedly never wear shoes, have always struck me as absurd. Not only are they untrue (I never saw folks in public spaces sans shoes, except perhaps, occasionally at a park(, but the fact that being able to seize moments where you can venture out into a space without shoes is mocked sheds light on how little those who deride have failed to seize opportunities to really be out in the natural world. Anyone who's ventured into a Kentucky field without shoes on knows the sheer pleasure of that connection with the earth. Here in New Zealand, I'm thrilled that going shoeless while playing is normalized, and that I can send my own kids into the backyard barefoot, or even to beachside playgrounds, without a second thought.

Open Doors, Open Windows

One of the unexpected surprises here is the unique architectural style of Kiwi homes. Bungalow-type houses are the norm, and large, sprawling homes are a rare find. Due to the island climate, there's no need for central air or heating, and this translates into a beautiful feature - most homes are generously lined with windows. What's more, it's common practice to keep those windows and doors wide open throughout spring, summer, and fall. And here's the kicker - none of these windows or doors have screens.

Admittedly, I'm still getting used to the occasional fly making its way inside, but the overall ambiance it creates is worth it. Our home is filled with the gentle flow of fresh air and the sweet serenade of birdsong, making it feel as if we're living in the great outdoors.

Māori in Daily Life

Since the 1980s, New Zealand has been on a mission to preserve and rejuvenate the Māori language, the original language of the indigenous people. As a result, Māori language and culture have become an integral part of everyday life here. Our children are learning it at school, and Māori words and phrases adorn signs and buildings across the country. We're thrilled to encounter a blend of Māori in our daily interactions, from school emails to casual conversations.

I was particularly intrigued when Charlie shared something he'd observed at work -- that Maori tradition includes a common introduction (pepeha), where you introduce not just yourself but also your connection to the land - your canoe, mountain, river, tribe, and subtribe. He mentioned that it's even used in work meetings, and I recently witnessed this during a local city council interview.

As a newcomer, it's both fascinating and invigorating to be in a country committed to integrating indigenous language and traditions into everyday life. I look forward to the day when I can introduce myself, paying homage to the rivers and mountains of my homeland in the process. What a beautiful tradition to root oneself in the essence of a place, in nature, and in the earth.

All Birds, No Snakes

We had heard tales of New Zealand's diverse birdlife, but experiencing it firsthand is an entirely different sensation. Local parks teem with unusual and captivating bird species, including the occasional sighting of brightly colored, parrot-like birds in our own yard (we suspect they were Eastern Rosellas). And here's an added source of relief that we particularly appreciate when venturing out on hikes - no snakes! The absence of major predators enhances the tranquility of being outdoors here, allowing us to enjoy nature without the constant worry of encountering any beasts or slithering creatures.