The Great Kiwi Invasion: How Many Flightless Birds Have Landed in Melbourne?
Ever wondered why Melbourne's cafes have such a strong flat white game? Or why you keep hearing "choice" and "sweet as" thrown around like confetti? The answer, my friends, might be closer than you think. Melbourne has become a bit of a Kiwi haven, attracting our trans-Tasman neighbours like moths to a very fancy (and possibly fluoro) light.
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| How Many Kiwis Live In Melbourne |
But Seriously, Folks: How Many Kiwis Are We Talking About?
The 2021 census clued us in that over 82,000 Melbourne residents were born in New Zealand. That's a fair chunk of change, enough to fill the MCG with a passionate (and slightly sheepish) crowd. Now, this number is just the tip of the iceberg, because it doesn't take into account temporary residents or those who haven't gotten around to the official paperwork. Let's face it, even kiwis like a bit of bureaucracy-free living sometimes.
So Basically, Melbourne is Little New Zealand Now, Right?
Not quite, mate. While there's a strong Kiwi presence, Melbourne is still wonderfully diverse. Think of it more like a delicious cultural pie - with a generous helping of Kiwi flavour alongside a whole lot of other goodness.
Why Do So Many Kiwis Choose Melbourne?
The reasons are as varied as the penguins you might find down south. Melbourne offers a great job market, a happening cultural scene (think laneway bars and world-class coffee), and perhaps most importantly, a climate that isn't quite as, well, temperamental as New Zealand's. Plus, let's not forget there's no Tasman Sea to navigate, which means those weekend trips home are a breeze.
QuickTip: Pause at lists — they often summarize.
Kiwis in Melbourne: A Match Made in Australasian Heaven?
It seems so! Melbourne and its Kiwi residents seem to be getting along swimmingly (or should that be flopping gracefully?). The city benefits from the energy and talent these new Melburnians bring, and the Kiwis get to enjoy all the perks of this fantastic city. It's a win-win, as long as there's enough flat white to go around.
Frequently Asked Kiwi Invasion Questions:
How to identify a Kiwi in Melbourne?
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
While not all Kiwis wear jandals year-round, be on the lookout for people saying things like "chur" (thanks) and "sweet as" (great). Also, an unhealthy obsession with flat whites is a dead giveaway.
How to avoid a friendly rivalry over whose country has the better scenery?
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Just agree that both New Zealand and Australia are stunningly beautiful. Problem solved.
QuickTip: Copy useful snippets to a notes app.
How to convince a Kiwi to try vegemite?
This might be a bridge too far. But hey, if you're feeling adventurous, you could try introducing them to a delicious chicken parma - that might just win them over.
How to welcome a Kiwi to Melbourne?
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
A friendly "Kia Ora" (hello in Maori) and a decent flat white will do the trick.
How to ensure there's enough flat white for everyone?
Invest in a good coffee machine. You won't regret it.
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