The expression of who we are

Understanding our national identity has never been far from the minds of New Zealanders. Historians, novelists, poets, painters, musicians, philosophers, politicians and intellectuals of many kinds have grappled with the question of the New Zealand identity, engaging in the attempt to capture, shape and articulate it.
 
We still search for the essence of being a New Zealander.  But there is no one essence.  A national identity is made up of thousands of contributions: the achievements and sacrifices that give us pride, the events that join us and those that divide us, the things we imagine and the things we experience, the way we define ourselves against other people and nations.  We may construct and imagine a national identity but it will be forever fluid and changing. 

As our society becomes increasingly multi-cultural, it is more important than ever to have a sure and confident sense of the history, spirit, values, and aspirations of New Zealand, its communities and its individual citizens. We need to hear strong voices articulating in different ways what the many peoples of New Zealand think and feel and hope for as they grow into the twenty-first century. 

Research and creative work by University of Auckland academics have given a strong lead in this vitally important quest.  They have explored a wide range of themes bearing on national identity in the course of their engagement with the history, literature, art, music, and ideas of the many peoples who now make up this country.

By supporting the scholarship and creativity of these leading researchers, writers and artists, through the establishment of Chairs, Fellowships and Scholarships, we can help New Zealand to a better understanding of its social and cultural principles, celebrate the growing strength of its diversity, and provide its young people with a sound platform for success on the global stage.