New Zealand. On many marae, (Māori meeting grounds), the telling of ancient myths and legends continues. Many form the basis of Māori beliefs, like the story of how Maui fished up the North Island.
The first book was published in New Zealand in 1830. By the 20th century, authors were expanding their literary exploration into themes of land, geographical isolation and the emergence of national identity.
, New Zealand’s wealth of non-fiction publishing ranges from stunning artistic and commercial treatments of traditional culture and contemporary arts, through history, popular science and narrative non-fiction, to lavish lifestyle books that celebrate New Zealand’s unique culture.
New Zealand’s fiction writers have found international success with poetry, crime novels, short stories and much-loved children’s books.