Locum 101: Slang in New Zealand

October 14, 2011

New Zealand, slang
Before you visit New Zealand on locum assignment, you better brush up on some of the country's slang to prevent any embarrassing situations. For example, while a kiwi may be a flightless bird and the country's official mascot, it is also another name for your average New Zealander.

Kiwi's are well known for their greetings and goodbyes and even though "g'day" may be an Aussie original that means "hello", New Zealanders have truly made it their own. Same goes for the word "cheerio," when Kiwi's say it they are not talking about cereal, they are saying "goodbye." If someone tells you they are "happy as larry," it means they are very happy. Also, do not get offended if somebody calls you a "hard case," as they are only saying you are a funny person.

When you and your fellow locum tenens want to grab a bite to eat, it might help to know that chicken is sometimes called "chook," sausage is known as "banger," fish and chips are "greasies" and chewing gum is "chuddy."

There is no need to get mad if you hear someone call your son or daughter a "sprog," as this is just another way of saying "child." If someone calls your wife or girlfriend "Sheila," they did not get her name wrong, this is just New Zealand slang for "woman." However, maybe you should be a little upset that kiwi's slang for medical doctor is "quack."
See also...
Search Job Openings
  • “Global Medical's service is excellent. I feel that the staff always takes a personal interest in my position and would do anything reasonable to help if a problem arose. The telephone calls to check on how things are going are always substantive and responsive.”
    – Leonard Bentch, MD
  • “Working with Global medical gave me great insight into medicine in Australia. Don't miss out; it will be the highlight of your career!”
    – Brian Doyle, M.D.
  • “I recommend this experience to anyone who is interested in broadening his or her medical horizons.”
    – Gerard Ames, MD
  • “My experience with Global has been so much better than any other staffing agency, so props to you! Now, I'm going snorkeling for my dinner.”
    – Matthew Black, DO
  • “My experience with Global's U.S. locums has been excellent. Now, I'm working with Global to go to New Zealand.”
    – Greg Matera, MD

Your Adventure Starts Here

Join our locum tenens community! Request Information

LocumSpheres e-Newsletter

Intrigue, insight, wit & wisdom for locums Subscribe

Job Notifications

Stay up-to-date with our latest assignments Job Notifications

Global Medical Staffing

2450 Fort Union Blvd.
Salt Lake City, Utah 84121-3337 USA
Local Phone: 801-365-0303
U.S. Fax: 801-449-3237
Int'l Fax: 801-449-3238

TOLL-FREE FROM THE U.S. & CANADA

1-866-858-6269 Domestic Placement
1-800-760-3174 International Placement

OUTSIDE THE U.S. & CANADA

Click Here for Toll-Free Numbers

Additional Information

Stay Connected