Kiwi kid’s cultural adventures
Ten-year-old Phoenix Broderick, from Wellington, loves the toys, dumplings and outdoor activities in his new home.
What inspired your move, and how long have you been there?
I wanted to move because I missed my dad. I have been in Hong Kong 18 months.
What do you do there?
We live in Discovery Bay on Lantau Island so we can go hiking, swimming at the beach and, of course, there are plenty of interesting things to see and do in Hong Kong city.
What are the greatest advantages to living there?
I get to travel a lot and see many new countries in Asia. We travel to Europe as well, as there are many countries nearby.
Disadvantages?
The heat and humidity in summertime. Not being able to have a big backyard. Hong Kong is really busy.
How expensive is it compared to New Zealand?
My dad tells me it is very expensive if you want to buy the luxuries, as there are plenty of them, but you can go to markets where things are cheap. Also if you don’t mind fake toys there are lots of them and they are a lot cheaper than the real ones.
How much is a beer?
Dad says they range from NZ$3 at a dairy to $15 in a fancy restaurant.
What do you do in your spare time?
I play basketball and go to my friends for play dates.
What’s the local delicacy and would you recommend eating it?
Dim sum and dumplings. I love them.
Easiest way to get around?
The MTR – like the Metro Link or the Tube in London. It’s really fast and always on time. It can be really crowded sometimes though.
What’s the shopping like?
Everything you want is here from super cheap at the Ladies’ Market to more expensive shops.
Best after-dark activity?
I’m asleep but if it’s the weekend I love going to all the cafes and restaurants.
Best time of year to visit?
Chinese New Year – it’s busy but you get to explore and enjoy the culture.
What are the top three things you recommend for visitors?
The Ladies’ Market, hiking and dumplings.
Besides family and friends, what do you miss most about home?
I could be free to do whatever I wanted. School is much busier here and there are so many things to do.
How easy is it for you to get back to New Zealand?
I go back to visit my mum and sister at least twice a year unless we meet in other countries, and my sister comes to see dad as well when she can.