The symbols on the shield represent the country's maritime trade, agriculture and industry. A European woman and a Māori chief flank the left and right sides, identifying New Zealand as a bicultural nation (European New Zealanders and Māori). The figures are supported by the silver fern, a native plant. The St Edward's Crown is a reminder that New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy.
National anthems
"God Defend New Zealand" and "God Save the King"
"God Defend New Zealand"
"God Save the King"
"God Defend New Zealand" was adopted in 1977.
Both are official, though in most circumstances "God Defend New Zealand" is used as the anthem. "God Save the King" is generally used only on regal and viceregal occasions.
The national Māori flag also uses these colours, with attached symbolism. Red ochre (kokowai) has a spiritual significance in Māori culture, associated with life and vitality.
Unofficial emblems
Symbol
Image
Remarks
National bird
Kiwi (Apteryx mantelli)
The term Kiwis has been used as a nickname for New Zealanders since at least World War I, and the bird's use as a symbol for the country dates from the same era.
National plant
Silver fern (Cyathea dealbata)
A species of medium-sized tree fern, endemic to New Zealand. Often referred to by its Māori name, ponga, the silver fern has been used to represent New Zealand since the 1880s.
National flower
Kōwhai (Sophora tetraptera)
Evergreen tree, producing bright yellow flowers in spring. Blooms of kōwhai are found throughout New Zealand in a diverse range of habitats. The Department of Conservation notes that kōwhai is widely regarded as being the national flower.
National personification
Zealandia
Popular in the late 19th and early 20th century. Now rarely used, other than as a supporter on the coat of arms.
Cultural icons
Icons of New Zealand culture are almost as well known by New Zealanders and visitors as unofficial symbols. Certain items of popular culture thought to be unique to New Zealand are also called "Kiwiana".
Image
Remarks
The All Blacks
The country's national rugby union team – three times world champions, and the country's best known sports team both locally and internationally.[citation needed]
The Beehive
The distinctively shaped executive wing of New Zealand Parliament Buildings, built in the 1970s.
Bungy jumping
Popularised by A.J. Hackett in the South Island, it has become a popular extreme sport worldwide.
Haka
A traditional Māori dance, now widely used by sports teams as a challenge and by schools as a tribute or honour.
Hei-tiki
Traditional Māori ornamental pendants.
Kiwifruit
This fruit was branded kiwifruit when growers in New Zealand established successful cultivars suitable for export. It remains a major export for the country.
Koru
The koru, widely used in traditional Māori art, is a stylised depiction of an unfurling silver fern frond.
The Lord of the Rings
The film trilogy (and the subsequent The Hobbit trilogy) highlighted New Zealand's natural scenery and is widely associated with the country worldwide.
Mitre Peak
A distinctive peak which dominates Milford Sound, one of the country's most popular tourist destinations.
Pāua
A species of abalone. Its flesh is a delicacy, and its iridescent shell is used for ornamentation.
Pavlova
A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside; topped with whipped cream and fruit. Its country of origin is widely contested by Australia.
Pounamu ("Greenstone")
Nephrite jade, highly valued by Māori both physically and spiritually.
See also
New Zealand portal
Kiwi (people)
Kiwiana
New Zealand heraldry
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