New Zealand’s musical tradition dates back to the nation’s earliest settlement, and in recent times local artists have mixed popular international styles with Māori and Pacific influences.

Scribe, Split Enz, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Bic Runga, the Flight of the Conchords and Lorde have struck a chord (pardon the pun!) with audiences worldwide, while songstress Hayley Westenra has made an impact on the classical music charts and Kiri Te Kanawa remains an operatic force even in retirement. Picking up a few CDs and watching a live band is a great way to sample local culture.