Backgrounders

New Zealand's Pacific Rim cuisine draws inspiration from Europe, Asia and Polynesia. Background information on various aspects of New Zealand cuisine.

New Zealand's colonisation; treaty of Waitangi; the treasure pounamu; the importance of the environment to Maori.

New Zealanders' outdoor lifestyle has created demand for high-quality lifestyle clothing. Line 7 is a leading world label in yachting sportswear. Also Untouched World and Snowy Peak, and uses for Merino.

Background information on New Zealand film directors, including Peter Jackson, Lee Tamahori, Andrew Niccol, Vincent Ward, Geoff Murphy.

Waiheke Island and Nelson are two strongholds for art and artist communities in New Zealand.

List of New Zealand art galleries and museums, from small local collections to the impressive National Museum Te Papa, in Wellington.

New Zealand is the homeland of a number of star Hollywood actors, including Russell Crowe, Sam Neill, Anna Paquin, Temuera Morrison and up-and-comer Cliff Curtis.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Dame Malvina Major, Janet Frame, Nyree Dawn Porter, Katherine Mansfield.

Summary of organisations and resources important to the New Zealand film industry.

Helpful tips for cycling in New Zealand, including road rules, sun sense, hiring a bike and treating the environment with respect.