Working with New Zealanders: Insights from Shireen Chua

Working and living in New Zealand‍

Known for its breathtaking landscapes, the legendary All Blacks rugby team, and for being far away from most, is a place where tradition meets modernity.

I know, I lived there myself for 4 years, and the experience was a catalyst to my passion for HR and cross-cultural practice and understanding.

If you're interested in cross-cultural work, check out my guide on Mastering Multicultural Remote Teams.

In my podcast episode, working with New Zealanders, I sat down with Kiwi Shireen Chua, a cultural intelligence expert and Director of Third Culture Solutions, to talk about working with Kiwis and what makes their approach so distinctive.

My experience: It’s all about balance, humility, and getting stuck in!

A Kiwi is a flightless bird native to New Zealand and a national symbol. The term also refers to people from New Zealand, making Kiwi the common nickname for New Zealanders.

The following article is briefly based on the conversation I had with Shireen about working with someone from New Zealand. Listen to the entire conversation to get the full picture.

What makes Kiwi culture special?‍

New Zealand’s culture is a fascinating mix of Maori traditions and Anglo-Saxon influences.

For more on navigating diverse workplaces, read Thriving in Cross-Cultural Workplaces.

Think communal Maori values blending with more individualistic tendencies.

It’s cultural fusion at its best.

The Maori concept of "Tangata Whenua" (people of the land) underpins so much of life in New Zealand, shaping how Kiwis connect with each other and the land.

The first stop for many going to New Zealand will be Auckland. Where I lived and studied and what I saw and experienced was the most diverse and integrated city you can imagine.

Over 200 ethnicities and 160 languages, all in one city! It’s a global village where cultural agility isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential.

Auckland has one of the most culturally diverse schools in the world. At my university, I had classes with people from all over the world.

What you need to know about Kiwi workplaces‍

If you’re working with New Zealanders, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• They’re Modest: Forget flashy presentations or bragging. Kiwis are all about staying grounded. The "tall poppy syndrome" dictates that they will criticise anyone who stands out excessively, thus emphasising the importance of humility.
• They’re Resourceful: Ever heard of "Number 8 wire mentality"? It’s a Kiwi way of saying they’re brilliant at fixing problems with whatever’s on hand. Creative problem-solving is in their DNA.
• They’re Egalitarian: New Zealand workplaces are super inclusive. Leaders work alongside their teams, and there’s not much room for big egos. Collaboration is king.

Learn how to foster inclusivity in teams by exploring Enhancing Team Dynamics in Multicultural Settings.

Challenges Kiwis face‍

There are challenges in the lives of the Kiwis as well. It might seem like a paradise from the outside, but like many other small countries, New Zealand grapples with a "brain drain" as some of its best and brightest seek opportunities overseas.

On the other hand, work-life balance is a significant attraction. Four weeks of annual leave? Yes, please! In addition, they have other policies, such as:

• Employees receive at least 10 days of paid sick leave per year, promoting health and well-being without financial stress.
• Generous parental leave policies support new parents, with up to 26 weeks of paid leave available.
• Policies often encourage remote work and flexible hours to help employees balance personal and professional commitments.
• Strong labour laws ensure fair treatment, job security, and a supportive working environment.

There’s also an ongoing effort to celebrate Maori culture in workplaces while addressing the historic injustices faced by indigenous communities. Progress is being made, but it’s still a journey.

Top Tips for Working with Kiwis‍

Let’s make things simple. Here are some quick, actionable tips for working with New Zealanders:

• Be Curious: Want to make a good impression? Show genuine interest in their background and experiences. Ask about their pepeha (personal introduction that ties them to their land and people).
• Celebrate Inclusivity: Build workplaces that value all perspectives. Collaboration and safety are key to success.
• Respect Their Downtime: Family and personal time are sacred. Don’t mess with it.
• Praise with Care: Keep it low-key. Over-the-top accolades might not land well. Celebrate wins, but stay humble.
• Focus on Fairness: Egalitarianism is a core Kiwi value. Treat everyone equally, and you’ll fit right in.

The Fun Side of Kiwi Culture‍

Ever seen Lord of the Rings? The cultural scene in New Zealand is world famous, but there are more people than Peter Jackson showcasing the nature and people of New Zealand (altoghouh, one can argue if Bilbo Baggins and Sauron are Kiwis...).

Here are some cultural masterpieces that showcase New Zealand well.

• Films: Check out Boy and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. They’ll give you a laugh and some insight into Maori culture and rural life. Don’t miss Whale Rider for a heartwarming story about Maori heritage.
• Music: Dub reggae is huge in New Zealand. It’s the perfect soundtrack for the country’s laid-back lifestyle. Bands like Fat Freddy’s Drop and The Black Seeds are a must-listen.
• Landmarks: Yes, New Zealand is Middle-earth. Beyond The Lord of the Rings, visit landmarks like Waitangi for its historical significance or Rotorua for its Maori cultural experiences.

Tip: If you're preparing to move or immerse yourself in a new culture, check out this clip from my podcast or read this article on learning culture through popular culture.

FAQs About Working with New Zealanders

Q: Are Kiwis really that humble?
Absolutely. Kiwis pride themselves on staying grounded. Just don’t expect them to shout about their successes.

Q: What should I avoid doing in a Kiwi workplace?
Avoid being overly flashy or pushy. Workplaces are collaborative, so make sure you’re inclusive and down-to-earth.

Q: How do Kiwis balance work and life?
With a focus on family, recreation, and taking time off. It’s common to see people heading to the beach or outdoors on weekends.

Q: Is the tall poppy syndrome real?
Yes, but it’s not all bad. It’s a way of keeping things egalitarian and avoiding big egos.

Q: What industries are thriving in New Zealand?
Agriculture, tourism, film production, and tech startups are key industries. Kiwis are also known for their innovation in renewable energy and sustainable practices.

Final Thoughts
Working with New Zealanders is a blend of humility, creativity, and collaboration. By staying curious and embracing their unique culture, you’ll not only build stronger relationships but also learn heaps along the way.

Shireen wisely stated, "Culture not only unites us, but also has the power to shape our destiny." Be curious, be humble, and unlock the richness it brings."

For more tips and insights, connect with Shireen on LinkedIn