I don't think I'd expected there to be quite such a prolific influence of the American use (or abuse?) of the English language in New Zealand. Yoh-gurt instead of yoghurt I was aware of, and I was prepared for chips instead of crisps. But I never thought I would rent out so many pairs of ski 'pants' and get to the stage of asking mates if they want to watch a 'movie' without flinching or even realising what I've said. I can't bring myself to fill my car up with 'gas' yet though.
I just don't understand why the influence is so huge on a country that in so many other aspects almost eschews any comparison with North America.
How lady-like of you... Give me a can of beans and I'll fill your car up with gas until your eyes water.
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