National Anthem
 

How many of you have learned the NZ national anthem? It has taken me 3 1/2 years and I still only know the first verse in English and couldn't even attempt the Maori words from memory.

Re: National Anthem
 

I sort of know the first verse in Maori, only because my 5 year old daughter randomly breaks into singing it whenever she feels like it usually in public places she has mastered the first verse in Maori and the second in English ....... i really should try it to stop her showing me up

Re: National Anthem
 

Hahaha, I'm the same as Alan, my kids know both the Maori and the English verses from school and can sing both fluently. It's interesting when I attend one of their school assemblies that may have 50-60 parents at the back. The kids belt out the first verse in Maori whilst the adults fidget and fumble, pretending to be very busy with their cameras, dvd recorders etc. And then suddenly the volume trebles as we get to the second verse in English when all the adults join in!:lol: I am assuming when they were at school the Maori verse wasn't taught?

I learnt both for when I attended an All Blacks game and sang at the top of my voice, much to my eldest child's embarrassment.:thumbup: I know the English still, but I admit after the second line of the Maori I'm useless again!

Re: National Anthem
 

I know it in English. Only a small fraction of Kiwis know Maori so its sort of just a bit of pandering really to sing it in a forgotten language.

Edit: Of course you could be super annoying and point out that"God Save the Queen" is also the New Zealand national anthem.

Re: National Anthem
 

Ha ha, yes that's me. I was educated in NZ and we never learnt the Maori words. Did a few stick games and poi dances though.

Re: National Anthem
 

I have learned the sporting 'national anthem' - Why does love do this to me by The Exponents :rofl:

Re: National Anthem
 

Do you have to 'sing' the anthem at the citizenship ceremony ?

Re: National Anthem
 

Yes but they give you the words!;)

Re: National Anthem
 

Know both versions and like AL sing at the rugby at the top of my lungs. Although in Sep will be singing Flower of Scotland at Invercargill as well!!!

Phyl x

Re: National Anthem
 

Thank goodness for that :D

Re: National Anthem
 

Re: National Anthem
 

Ahhh, most useful cappuccino.:thumbup: Have to say I lurve the NZ National Anthem.:thumbsup:

Re: National Anthem
 

I love to hear Hayley Westenra singing it - lots of YouTube clips of her and her beautiful voice.

Re: National Anthem
 

The 'alternative' (sporting) national anthem: www.youtube.com/watch?v=otFyKXje9Eg

Re: National Anthem
 

Me too! We met her in 2006 & she's an absolute sweetheart :)