Kiwiana Culture
We all do the same things differently
Adopting Kiwi culture doesn't mean losing your own. Every culture does the same key things differently, and that's exactly what the dreaded "you don't have Kiwi experience" is really about: the cultural differences and clashes that genuinely do exist. Kiwiana fixes that, by teaching the Kiwi way of doing what you already know how to do.
New Zealand attracts brilliant, experienced tech professionals from all over the world, then baffles them with an unwritten rulebook. Kiwiana is AFQY's programme for New Kiwis: everything you need to know about working, networking and belonging here, told straight and with a lot of laughs.
What we cover
The NZ job hunt
How hiring really works here: who to talk to, how roles get filled before they’re advertised, and why relationships beat applications.
Networking, Kiwi-style
Building a genuine network from scratch, including how to work a room without feeling like you’re selling yourself.
LinkedIn that works in NZ
Positioning your profile and activity for the local market.
CVs and interviews
Reshaping your CV for NZ expectations and preparing for local interview formats.
The unwritten rules
Relationships over hierarchy, the laidback "she’ll be right" culture, playing the ball not the man, and the small talk that opens doors.
Settling in
Onboarding, workplace norms, and homework you’ll actually enjoy. Yes, watching a bit of Kiwi TV counts.
New to New Zealand?
Whether you're one person finding your feet or an employer onboarding international talent, we'd love to help.
Get in touch