Culture and history

The cultural foundation of New Zealand is Māori heritage (tangata whenua, Te Reo language, mythology and ritual) and the British colonial tradition.

Maori settled on the islands about a thousand years ago, creating a rich system of childbirth, legends and art (carving, tattoo ta-moko, haka dance).

In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, which marked the beginning of British governance; The 20th century was marked by the struggle for the recognition of Maori rights and the transition to a bilingual, multicultural model.

Modern culture combines European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences: in art and cinema - "Weitangian perspective," in music - from haka-rock to indie and pop.

National identity relies on the principles of kaitiakitanga (caring for land) and whanaungatanga (kinship and community).

In everyday life - Matariki festivals, cuisine with seafood and lamb, love for nature and sports.

The memory of the past is combined with openness to the world, forming a unique cultural identity for the island nation.