New Zealand is recognized around the world for things like bungee jumping, rugby, kiwifruit, sheep and beautiful movie sceneries. It is known as a nation of do-it-yourself people. The national icon is the Kiwi bird; which is also a popular term meaning a New Zealander. Kiwis love sports such as rugby and yachting, the great outdoors, coffee, and the arts.
The New Zealand culture is directly influenced by the Maori
and European (Pakeha) culture, due to their pioneering history
in the country and their arrival in New Zealand. This context
has given rise to a fresh Pacific identity that breaths vibrance
associated to innovation, independence and diversity.
One example of this mixed influence is the national sport, the rugby, introduced by England people that starts only after the Haka team performance. The Haka is a traditional Maori dance used for expressing support for the All Blacks since 3th October of 1888.
Today Maori people represents around 15% of total New Zealand population and many are actively involved with keeping their culture and language alive, what directly impact all facets of New Zealand life. Māori still regard their allegiance to tribal groups as a vital part of their identity. Traditional carvers also help to keep Maori culture alive by creating intricate works that pay respect to the past. Every piece carved tells a story, which can be read by those who know how. The shape of the heads, position of the body as well as the surface patterns work together to record and remember events. Other aspects are the moko (Maori tattoo), the stories and legends.
This legend tells of the group of mountains in the central North Island and justifies the course of the Wanganui River and the isolation of Egmont
Since the 1970s many more ethnic groups have been allowed to settle – from the Pacific Islands, Asia and every corner of the globe. They represent around 17% of New Zealand population and have been influencing the New Zealand culture with their food and celebrations. Once a year the Lantern Festival (Chinese festival) is celebrated at Albert Park in Auckland, the Indian Festival take place the main street in Auckland and Brazilian Carnival is celebrated in many cities with big Brazilian community.