Art & Culture

Like food, dance and fashion New Zealand music is a unique and vibrant expression of the culture of the land. New Zealand's musical influence has come from a variety of cultures. The sounds of the indigenous Maori can be heard in many of the country's music genres – while New Zealand's British colonial history, with contributions from Europe and America, can also be widely heard. As the nation has grown, local artists have mixed these styles with local influences to create music that is uniquely New Zealand.

As unenticing as burnt toast may sound, it has certainly intrigued art buffs in galleries nationally and internationally, thanks to Maurice Bennett's pixilated 'toast portraits' and 'tapa cloth' toast designs.

Growing up in New Zealand – surrounded by sea, snow and space – has had a huge influence on Hayley Westenra’s blossoming international career.

The talent of Maori is evident in many fields of creative endeavour, both in New Zealand and overseas.

Top Maori singer/songwriter Moana Maniapoto has three albums behind her (Tahi and Rua – meaning one and two), Moana and The Tribe already released in Europe, and a fourth album on the way in New Zealand.

Carver Ian Thorne says art, jewellery or even souvenir aficionados can find a wealth of artist studios and galleries all over New Zealand, and the country has a wealth of natural resources available for use by artists in creating stunning and unique works.

New Zealand painter Grahame Sydney has won critical acclaim for his 'On The Road' show that features realistic depictions of Central Otago landscapes.

Arts and Culture Feature; Overview of famous past and contemporary New Zealand artists and how they interpret their country, identity and culture.

Feature overview about the New Zealand landscape and how this influences past and contemporary New Zealand artists.

Overview of Maori art and culture. History, influences, Maori art and culture today, prominent Maori artists, actors and performers.