New Zealand has long prided itself on its biculturalism, but in truth that’s a claim that has only recently been made with any real conviction. Maori is once again being taught in classrooms and Maoritanga (Maori culture and lifestyle) is widely celebrated. The pride felt in the country’s mixed heritage might not be universally greeted, but is, perhaps for the first time in the country’s short history, respectfully acknowledged on both sides.

The past decade or so has thrown up another dramatic shift in New Zealand’s culture. Since the 90s, government policy has encouraged an influx of new immigrants, mostly from Asia, who now collectively make up 10% of the population.

There remains, overall, a willingness to welcome new people and new ideas. The mood is upbeat. New Zealand is finally becoming what it always wanted to be: a truly international country.