New Zealand – a state in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, in Polynesia, located on two large islands and a large number of smaller surrounding islands.
Ministry of culture and heritage of New Zealand manages the activities of state bodies in the sphere of culture.
British culture and cultural traditions of many countries of Western Europe, whose inhabitants moved to New Zealand, has a serious impact on the cultural life of this country. Particular attention is paid to the preservation of New Zealand Maori indigenous culture. About 50 years ago, Maori language has almost disappeared from everyday use. For its saving and rebirth newspapers are published in the Maori, new television channel broadcasting exclusively in that language was opened. English is the lingua franca of business and everyday communication. Maori – the second official language of New Zealand. It is recognized by Parliament and courts, and its value continues to increase.
Despite the geographical distance of New Zealand, its residents have access to a variety of cultural activities and cultural events. Theater, cinema, literature and visual arts attract a large number of fans and participants.
Contemporary New Zealand film industry is actively developing – there are new films on the screen shot with the participation of local filmmakers.
Film director and screenwriter Jane Kempion, film director Peter Jackson, actor Russell Crowe, Craig Parker, Lucy Lawless and Sam Neill are the most successful members of the film industry in New Zealand. And the most famous paintings are the trilogy films «The Lord of the Rings», «The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe», «The Last Samurai» and «Xena – Warrior Princess».