A New Zealand norm

I haven't done a ton on NZ focused posts because I haven't traveled as much as I had planned. If you feel like you don't have a better grasp on what New Zealand is like after following me the last few months, I apologize. You get what you pay for.

New Zealand and Canada are very similar. Both extraordinarily beautiful, well respected around the world, friendly people, good food, wine and a love for the outdoors. There is one cultural norm that stood out to me immediately that I find pretty innocent and fun. While this is more of a trend in the country and rural communities, you would also find it in cities.

Kids don't wear shoes. They own them, they just aren't overly keen on the idea. It is my understanding that most kids leave their homes with shoes but will ditch them on their walk to school or once at school. They will play outside without shoes. If you go to a store, you will see shoe-less kids inside. SHOE-LESS!! My dad would not be impressed. It has crossed my mind to take pictures of this phenomenon, but taking pictures of little kids you don't know is universally frowned upon. However, taking pictures of an old man taking money out of an ATM is widely praised.

I'm okay with kids doing it, I can see the appeal. Heyyyy no shoes!!! If you are an adult though, this is just reinforcing my last post about savagery. People here also love netball, sort of similar to basketball but only girls play. I'm a fan.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mrgmy9clLro

"You can do anything, but not everything"

David Allen