New Zealand and its cultures Introduction NZ is a country of immigrants. Unique and dynamic culture. Diverse population. Love for outdoors, sports and arts make NZ unique. Last places on globe to be settled by humans Mainly European and Maori descents, marriages between the two groups are very common. Call themselves kiwis, after national icon, kiwi bird. What are the cultures and their people in NZ like?? New Zealanders have a background of quiet but rugged individualism, self-reliance, friendliness and a genius for invention--qualities still evident in the population today. Europeans- also known as the PAKEHA. Strong sense of justice and fair play, respect for hard work and honesty. Trace their roots all the way back to Britain, mainly England and Scotland, also Wales and Ireland. Maori- actively involved with keeping language and culture alive. Focuses on cultural, spiritual and social life. Preschool kids are encouraged to speak Maori, to keep the culture alive. Ancient beliefs of the Maori culture is recognized and respected by NZ leaders. Pacific Islanders- Polynesian descent. Samoa, cook islands, Tonga and Nuie. Known as Maori Performing Arts or the cultural dance of Maori people. Maori war dance. Usually performed before important matches like rugby, believed to give good luck. Expressing heritage and cultural identity through song and dance. STATISTICS: The 74 percent increase in the Asian population between 1991 and 1996 was mainly due to large migration gains. The relatively high growth rate of the Mäori population 1991-1996 reflects both natural increase (excess births over deaths) and an increase in people identifying as Mäori. The increase in the Pacific population resulted largely from natural increase, with some gains through migration. New immigrants to New Zealand come from a growing range...