Cultural / Context information for the jury

New Zealand’s traditional owners of the land are the Māori. They have occupied and tended to the land and waters of New Zealand for over 700 years. It is their worldview that significantly influences the New Zealand culture you see today. The core Māori principle discussed in this entry is the principle of “Manaakitanga.” It loosely translates as “hospitality,” however the definition goes further, encompassing behaviours of hospitality, kindness, generosity, support — it is the process of showing respect, generosity and care for others. Another term mentioned is “bach” (pronounced ‘batch’) — New Zealand slang for a small, modest holiday home or beach house.

Tell the jury about the photography. Do not name the photographer.

Photographers were given freedom to capture the people as they saw fit. Some were posed, some caught in quiet moments, some immersed in what they are doing, others inviting you to join in. This body of work represents 365 days worth of individuals at dawn, across seasons, landscapes, industries and environments, creating an invaluable series of assets that transforms tourism campaigns into an authentically people-focused body of work. An immersive body of work that gives viewers a glimpse into what people get up to and inspires them to also get out there and create their own experiences of New Zealand. This is a portrait of the people at dawn; and shows the true diversity of experiences that awaits you when you are welcomed into a country.