What did 2018 look like for New Zealand, from the perspective of Google? In other words, what were we, as a nation, looking for? The results are in on Google Trends – and they may surprise you.
Among other things it seems that we, as a nation, struggle to cut mangos, have a hankering for vegan recipes, and collectively struggle to tell time (the question “what is the time” features as the 8th most popular ‘What is…?’ search query). And Philippines Photo Editor it appears that people in the Hawke’s Bay struggle at telling the time the most.
So, what are 2018’s most surprising searches, and what do they tell us about New Zealanders? Read on to find out.
Kiwis Love Their Sports
Is anyone surprised that Kiwis love their sports? Overall, some of the most popular searches were directly concerned with last year’s sporting events.
In order, these were the 2018 FIFA World Cup (the most popular search – even despite New Zealand not qualifying), the Commonwealth Games (3rd most popular) and the All Blacks vs France (10th most popular).
It’s Partly About The Politics
Jacinda Ardern remains popular – that much is obvious. The only NZ figure who edges out Jacinda Ardern in search popularity is the late social media entertainer, Johnny Danger.
Tougher luck for Simon Bridges, who was edged out by former National (and now Independent) MP Jami Lee Ross, in an epic scandal that covered in-party bullying, alleged sexual harassment, and accusations of a cover-up by Bridges.