New Zealand has a very diverse population, and the country’s unique blend of Maori, Pakeha (New Zealand European) and Pacific cultures has resulted in a vibrant cultural identity.

From its early days as a colonial nation when the nation looked to Britain for cultural leadership, New Zealand is a fiercely proud and self-confidence nation, where local idiosyncrasies are now celebrated. The Kiwi culture celebrates innovation, independence and diversity, and New Zealanders are renowned for thinking ‘outside the square’.

The Maori are descended from an ancient line of Polynesian people who reached Aotearoa’s shores over 1,000 years ago. Today Maori people make up over fourteen percent of the New Zealand population and their rich cultural heritage makes a unique and important contribution to the character of the country. Maori have a unique and complex social structure – as the Maori people traditionally had no written language, they preserved their past through spoken stories. This spellbinding art is preserved and performed at various sites around the country. You can also explore the Maori culture by visiting marae (meeting grounds), tasting a hangi prepared in an underground oven or taking a guided tour with a Maori host.

Visit art galleries and exhibitions in New Zealand and you’ll be confronted with the full force of New Zealand creativity. New Zealand’s artistic identity has been evolving from the earliest days of human settlement, when Maori developed powerful artistic forms in the carving of bone, stone, wood and shell, and in weaving fibres. From the iconic paintings of Charles Goldie, Colin MaCahon and Ralph Hotere to the iconic photographs of Marti Friedlander and Fiona Pardington, there is a multitude of talented New Zealand artists and their work for art lovers to discover.

New Zealand also has a strong tradition in the performing arts, and across the country there are a huge variety of shows, festivals and performances to enjoy. Whether you fancy a night at the opera or ballet, taking in a play or just seeing some homegrown Kiwi muscians play live music in local pub, you can experience the performing arts in an authentically Kiwi fashion.

Some other Kiwi traditions are more down-to-earth, but just as entertaining and enjoyable! See a sheep shearing demonstration, experience an authentic farmstay, or even partake in the annual Whitestone Cheese Rolling Competition!