Why Are People from New Zealand Called Kiwis?

People from New Zealand are called “Kiwis” because of their unique and symbolic connection to the kiwi, a flightless bird native to the country. The kiwi bird is known for its distinct features, such as its long beak and nocturnal habits, which make it a symbol of the country’s natural heritage. The connection between the bird and the country is so strong that New Zealanders have adopted the name “Kiwi” as a term of endearment and national identity—to the point that in casual conversation, it is often preferred to the official term “New Zealander.”

The wide association of the term “Kiwi” with New Zealand first arose in the 19th century, when images of the bird became widely used in local commerce (such as company logos) to highlight the New Zealand origin of products. It was also used in popular culture, such as newspaper cartoons. The term spread further during World War I, when New Zealand soldiers abroad became known as “Kiwis,” due to the use of the bird on military badges, as well as the soldiers’ heavy use of Australian-made Kiwi Shoe Polish.

The use of “Kiwi” to refer to New Zealanders has also been embraced internationally. It is a term that is recognized and respected around the world, often used to describe the friendly and adventurous nature of New Zealanders. This international recognition further solidifies the term by highlighting New Zealand’s natural beauty and distinctive environmental features.