New Zealand has a thriving cultural life, with a unique mix of European, Māori, Polynesian and, increasingly, other traditions.
Some of its orchestras and dance companies are internationally regarded - of particular note are the New Zealand Symphony and Auckland Philharmonic Orchestras, Royal New Zealand Ballet and Black Grace Dance Company. There are also numerous lesser-known professional theatre, dance and opera companies. Theatre is strong in the main centres - particularly Wellington and Christchurch - and offers a stimulating mix of local and overseas productions. The local film industry is vibrant - its famous exports include the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Once Were Warriors and King Kong. Overseas artists and exhibitions also tour regularly.
Several centres hold International Arts Festivals featuring a wide range of local and international artists. The most well-known is probably the International Festival of the Arts which is held in Wellington every two years and attracts a stellar cast of international artists. Similarly, Opera in the Park concerts have become hugely popular, with many centres lending their own interpretation to these events.
Māori cultural traditions receive strong support from both the Māori community and the general public. There has in recent years been a dramatic revival in all Maori art forms, from carving and weaving to traditional dance. Kapa Haka - a range of performing arts that includes haka, waiata, and poi dancing - enjoys enormous cross-cultural support. Regional and national competitions in these performing arts are a dominant feature of contemporary cultural life.
