Dunedin

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Common Slang and Idioms

Key Kiwi slang terms and idiomatic expressions that might be helpful for understanding locals in Dunedin.

Sections

1. Greetings and Socializing

These phrases are commonly used when meeting people or engaging in casual conversations.

  • "G'day"

    • Meaning: A casual way of saying "hello."
    • Example: "G'day, how's it going?"
    • Cultural Note: This is a quintessential Kiwi greeting and is widely used across New Zealand, including Dunedin. It’s friendly and informal.

  • "How ya goin'?"

    • Meaning: "How are you?" or "How are things going?"
    • Example: "How ya goin'? Been up to much?"
    • Cultural Note: This is a common way to start a conversation. It’s not necessarily an invitation to share detailed updates—just a friendly opener.

  • "Cheers"

    • Meaning: Used to say "thank you" or "goodbye."
    • Example: "Cheers for that, mate!"
    • Cultural Note: This is a versatile term in New Zealand. It can also be used when clinking glasses during a toast.

  • "Sweet as"

    • Meaning: "That’s great" or "No problem."
    • Example: "Can you help me with this?" "Yeah, sweet as!"
    • Cultural Note: The "as" construction is common in Kiwi slang (e.g., "cool as," "easy as"). It doesn’t need to be followed by anything—it’s just an intensifier.

  • "Chur"

    • Meaning: A casual way of saying "thanks," "cheers," or "awesome."
    • Example: "I grabbed you a coffee." "Chur, bro!"
    • Cultural Note: This is a very informal term, often used among friends. It’s rooted in Māori and Kiwi culture.

2. Daily Life and Practical Expressions

These phrases are useful for navigating everyday situations in Dunedin.

  • "Dunner stunner"

    • Meaning: A beautiful, sunny day in Dunedin.
    • Example: "It’s a real Dunner stunner today—perfect for a walk on St. Clair Beach!"
    • Cultural Note: Dunedin is known for its unpredictable weather, so sunny days are celebrated with this phrase.

  • "Scarfie"

    • Meaning: A university student in Dunedin, particularly at the University of Otago.
    • Example: "The scarfies are out in full force for the rugby game tonight."
    • Cultural Note: This term comes from the tradition of students wearing scarves in the cold Dunedin winters. It’s a key part of the city’s identity, as Dunedin is a major student hub.

  • "Flat"

    • Meaning: A shared rental house or apartment, often used by students.
    • Example: "I’m moving into a flat with three other scarfies."
    • Cultural Note: Flatting is a common living arrangement in Dunedin, especially for students. Flats are often older houses with a lot of character (and sometimes questionable heating).

  • "Togs"

    • Meaning: Swimsuit or bathing suit.
    • Example: "Don’t forget your togs if you’re heading to the hot pools."
    • Cultural Note: This is a New Zealand-wide term, but it’s good to know if you’re planning to visit Dunedin’s beaches or pools.

  • "Chilly bin"

    • Meaning: A portable cooler or icebox.
    • Example: "We’ll pack the chilly bin for the picnic at Otago Peninsula."
    • Cultural Note: This is a common term across New Zealand, reflecting the outdoor lifestyle.

3. Food and Drink

Dunedin has a strong food and drink culture, and these terms reflect that.

  • "Speights"

    • Meaning: A popular beer brand brewed in Dunedin.
    • Example: "Let’s grab a Speights at the pub after work."
    • Cultural Note: Speights is a Dunedin icon. Visiting the Speights Brewery is a must-do for beer enthusiasts.

  • "Bach"

    • Meaning: A holiday home or beach house.
    • Example: "We’re heading to the bach in Karitane for the weekend."
    • Cultural Note: While not specific to Dunedin, this term is widely used in New Zealand. It reflects the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle.

4. Weather and Nature

Dunedin’s weather and natural surroundings inspire some unique expressions.

  • "Four seasons in one day"

    • Meaning: A phrase describing Dunedin’s famously changeable weather.
    • Example: "Better bring a jacket—it’s four seasons in one day out there."
    • Cultural Note: This is a common saying in Dunedin and other parts of New Zealand. Locals are used to layering their clothing.

  • "Rattle your dags"

    • Meaning: Hurry up or get moving.
    • Example: "Come on, mate, rattle your dags—we’re going to be late!"
    • Cultural Note: This phrase comes from sheep farming (dags are clumps of wool and dirt that rattle when a sheep moves). It’s a playful, rural-inspired idiom.

5. Unique Dunedin Phrases

These expressions are specific to Dunedin or the South Island.

  • "The Octagon"

    • Meaning: The central hub of Dunedin, a public square surrounded by shops, restaurants, and bars.
    • Example: "Let’s meet at the Octagon for a coffee."
    • Cultural Note: The Octagon is a key landmark in Dunedin, so you’ll hear it mentioned often.

  • "Up the hill"

    • Meaning: Refers to the steep streets and hills in Dunedin, such as Baldwin Street (the world’s steepest street).
    • Example: "I had to walk up the hill to get to my flat."
    • Cultural Note: Dunedin’s hilly terrain is a defining feature of the city.

  • "The Castle"

    • Meaning: Refers to Larnach Castle, a historic mansion near Dunedin.
    • Example: "We’re taking the visitors to the Castle this weekend."
    • Cultural Note: Larnach Castle is a popular tourist attraction and a point of pride for locals.

6. General Kiwi Slang (Also Used in Dunedin)

These are common across New Zealand but are worth knowing in Dunedin.

  • "Mate"

    • Meaning: Friend or buddy.
    • Example: "Thanks for helping out, mate."
    • Cultural Note: This is a friendly, informal term used widely in New Zealand.

  • "No worries"

    • Meaning: "It’s okay" or "You’re welcome."
    • Example: "Thanks for the ride!" "No worries, mate."
    • Cultural Note: This reflects the laid-back Kiwi attitude.

  • "Eh"

    • Meaning: A tag question or conversational filler, similar to "right?"
    • Example: "It’s a nice day, eh?"
    • Cultural Note: This is used frequently in casual conversations and is a marker of Kiwi English.

Considerations for Visitors and New Residents

  1. Tone and Context: Kiwi slang is generally informal and friendly. Avoid using overly casual terms like "chur" or "sweet as" in formal settings or with people you don’t know well.
  2. Cultural Sensitivity: Some slang has Māori origins (e.g., "chur"). Using these terms respectfully and in the right context is important.
  3. Ask if Unsure: Kiwis are friendly and won’t mind if you ask for clarification about a term or phrase.
  4. Adopt Gradually: It’s fine to use slang, but don’t force it. Let it come naturally as you become more familiar with the local culture.

By learning and using these phrases, you’ll not only navigate Dunedin more easily but also connect with locals in a meaningful way. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city!