New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses (the North Island and the South Island), and numerous smaller islands, most notably Stewart Island/Rakiura and the Chatham Islands. The indigenous Māori named New Zealand Aotearoa, commonly translated as The Land of the Long White Cloud. The Realm of New Zealand also includes the Cook Islands and Niue (self-governing but in free association); Tokelau; and the Ross Dependency (New Zealand's territorial claim in Antarctica).

Our Culture

New Zealand has a very unique and dynamic culture. The culture of its indigenous Maori people affects the language, the arts, and even the accents of all New Zealanders. Their place in the South Pacific, and their love of the outdoors, sport, and the arts make New Zealanders and their culture unique in the world.
Lombardi Vineyard, Hawke's Bay

Maori Tourism

No visit to New Zealand would be complete without experiencing the culture, traditions or activities of the Maori people. The Maori Tourism section offers a variety of experiences.

Maori Culture

New Zealand's indigenous Maori people have a unique and fascinating language and culture, which plays a major role in New Zealand life.

The People

Though a diverse and multicultural people, there are many qualities, including friendliness, individuality, invention and self-reliance, that you'll find in most New Zealanders. It's our national character.

Arts

The influence of Maori, Pacific Island, European and Asian cultures makes the arts in New Zealand colourful, unique and vibrant - definitely something to look out for!.

Kiwiana

A range of wacky and weird objects helps define what it is to be a New Zealander, or 'Kiwi'. These wonderful things are known simply as - 'Kiwiana'.