Course introduction

This module has been designed to introduce students who are not originally from New Zealand to "Kiwi English"; that is, New Zealand English or English spoken by "Kiwis".  The term "Kiwi" was originally used for birds, but was later adopted for New Zealand people. 

The focus of the module is on the distinctive nature of the New Zealand accent as well as on the words and expressions which make Kiwi English unique.  The reason for this focus is that many people from outside New Zealand find Kiwi English difficult to understand. This difficulty may be because, for example, New Zealanders are thought to speak too quickly and use unusual intonation.  Also, New Zealanders use words and expressions that are different to those used in other countries. 

The aim of the module is to help you understand spoken and written Kiwi English so that you can participate in daily life in New Zealand, understand lectures given by New Zealanders, and be able to communicate with your New Zealand course-mates. 

Each section focuses on a different aspect of Kiwi English. The sections "Consonants and vowels" and "Intonation, stress and rhythm" focus on the distinctive phonological features of Kiwi English. The section "Colloquialisms and expressions"  looks at Kiwi slang, colloquialisms and abbreviations.  The section "Māori loan words" introduces words which are borrowed from Te Reo Māori, one of New Zealand's official languages. The incorporation of Māori loan words is an important and unique feature of Kiwi English.  Finally, the section, "Development of Kiwi English" traces the history of the development of this dialect.

Through this module you will have the opportunity to become familiar and conversant with Kiwi English, and thus you will be more prepared to understand, read and speak this dialect yourself.

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