New Zealand has a population of 4.4 million, divided between:
• North Island 76%
• South Island 24%.
Most New Zealanders live in cities; the countryside is less populated. The major cities are:
• Auckland (in the North Island)
• Wellington (the capital city, located at the bottom of the North Island)
• Christchurch (in the South Island)
Auckland, the largest city, has 30% of New Zealand’s population.
New Zealand is a multi-cultural society, as a result of migration from many parts of the world.
New Zealanders today come from many ethnic backgrounds, including European, Pacific Island, Asian and African. Multi-cultural influences are an important part of cuisine, fashion, art and music.
The population is split into cultural groups as follows:
• 78 % European
• 15 % Maori
• 7 % Asian
• 9 % Pacific Island
• 1% Other
[Source: Social Report 2009 – Ministry of Social Development.]
English, Maori and sign language (for the deaf) are New Zealand’s three official languages.
Maori and biculturalism
Maori are known as 'tangata whenua' or 'people of the land'. A resurgence of Maori culture and language in recent times has resulted in a new sense of national identity
Cultural freedom
New Zealand laws prohibit discrimination based on gender, race or disability.
Sexual harassment and gender discrimination are unlawful and unacceptable in New Zealand. Workplaces and education institutions have clear guidelines to prevent and deal with sexual harassment.
Arts and Culture today
New Zealand’s diverse cultural heritage has led to a country rich in arts and culture – from traditional Maori carving to contemporary Wearable Arts. Originality in design is a feature not only of New Zealand Arts but industries such as yacht design and construction.
Current fashion has a range of influences – New Zealand fashion designers have an international reputation for fresh and innovative design.
Music and dance thrives from ballet to hip hop, professional orchestras, choirs, jazz bands, diverse contemporary artists and an active alternative music scene. There are 7 professional theatre companies, and many local theatre groups.
From opera singer Kiri Te Kanawa to musicians like Neil Finn and Bic Runga, New Zealanders are well known on the world stage.
Excellent scenery, a highly skilled workforce and top directors (including Andrew Adamson and Peter Jackson) have led to a thriving film industry. New Zealand is a favourite film making destination – successes include award-winning films like ‘The Piano’, ‘Heavenly Creatures’, ‘Lord of the Rings’, ‘King Kong’, ‘The World’s Fastest Indian’, ‘Whale Rider’, ‘The Lovely Bones’, ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ series and ‘Avatar’.
New Zealand writing has also had international success – from writers like Katherine Mansfield in the early 20th century to more recent authors like Keri Hulme and Alan Duff.
New Zealanders appreciate good food and wine. The blend of cultures and easy access to quality produce has led to a wide range of excellent cuisine available in restaurants and cafes. Wines from New Zealand vineyards are well respected throughout the world and are readily available.
Religion is seen in New Zealand as a matter of personal choice. Human rights law guarantees freedom from discrimination. Major cities have churches, temples, mosques, synagogues and other centres of worship. Homestay families and student hostels can ensure religious needs are respected.
Many of the public holidays are from the Christian calendar.
According to the 2006 census, 55% of New Zealanders identified with a Christian religion – the three most common religions being Anglican, Catholic and Presbyterian. 1/3 of the population answered the census as ‘no religion. The New Zealand census is taken every five years and is next due in 2011.
Tertiary institutions have chaplains who often can connect students with local members of their faith.
People from New Zealand are known as “kiwis” - after the flightless Kiwi bird found only in New Zealand. They enjoy a quiet, relaxed lifestyle.
New Zealanders are famous for their warmth and hospitality – they enjoy meeting new people, sharing food and conversation. Students will find that 'Kiwis' are friendly, open and 'easy going'. Daily life is fairly informal – first names are used even in business.
Most people work a 5 day week. This is a culture that highly values independence and equality.