Fitting Into New Zealand
Arno with a group of friends during a long hike on Te Henga Walkway in Muriwai. Photography by Dom.
It's nearly impossible to discuss immigration without mentioning the complex topic and experience of assimilation, or 'fitting in'. For many migrants in New Zealand, the process of assimilation is a balancing act between embracing the ways of their new country and maintaining their own cultural identity.
What does it mean to fit in, and why is it important to try?
Often, when we find ourselves in unfamiliar situations or places, we tend to stick to what we know and gravitate toward social or cultural groups similar to our own. Unfortunately, this can keep us in a bubble, preventing us from truly experiencing our new environment.
The act of 'fitting in' means different things to different people. For some, it means becoming fully immersed in their new surroundings and culture, and forming deep connections with its history and people.
For instance, we have a client from the USA who has travelled extensively throughout New Zealand, is learning Te Reo Māori, and has become actively involved in the country's art and music scene, forming close ties to local iwi and Kiwis all over the country.
For some people, adapting to life in New Zealand involves cheering for the national sports team, picking up local slang, making new Kiwi friends, and hosting them for get-togethers, as well as learning about New Zealand’s customs and traditions from these new friends.
Fitting in isn’t about abandoning your own culture or traditions. It’s about becoming part of a new community, accepting its customs, and being willing to try new things, even if they are unfamiliar to you.
Through both our experiences and those shared by clients from around the world, we’ve witnessed how challenging it can be to adapt to a new place. However, by intentionally learning about your new surroundings and gradually stepping out of your comfort zone, you can reduce the social isolation and loneliness that often accompany the immigration journey. Opening yourself up in this way not only helps you feel more at home but also fosters a greater appreciation for the way people live in New Zealand and creates opportunities for meaningful connections.
Key things to remember while making an effort to 'fit in'
• Assimilation is challenging and involves adapting to cultural differences, even for those from Western or English-speaking backgrounds.
• Effort is required to understand and respect local culture, customs, and history.
• Fitting in does not mean losing your original identity, but rather seeing yourself as part of the new society.
• Engagement in learning the language, joining local communities, befriending locals, and adopting some customs helps integration.
• Belonging comes from accepting differences and focusing on shared values and common ground.
Welcome new experiences by:
Joining community events and/or groups such as a local gardening club, recreational sports team, arts and craft class, book club, etc.
Attending and supporting local events that support charitable causes (e.g. a fundraiser, festival, etc.)
Joining your town or neighbourhood's local Facebook group and attending local meet-ups in your area
Inviting work friends and neighbours to social gatherings such as dinner parties or barbecues
Going on a guided tour of your town/city/anywhere in New Zealand
Visiting your local museums to learn more about New Zealand's history and culture
Experience a traditional Māori Marae stay and hangi, and gain a deeper understanding of indigenous New Zealand culture and history
Embarking on a road trip through the North and South Islands
One of the most challenging aspects of moving abroad is leaving your creature comforts behind and adapting to a potentially very different place. By accepting differences and focusing on shared values and similarities, you can build a strong sense of belonging in New Zealand.
Read more tips on settling in on the blog.
