our Field

The Land

Made up of two main islands (the North Island and the South Island), New Zealand is roughly half the size of California in total land mass. It is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world, making it a top tourist destination. From rolling green hills dotted with sheep (New Zealand has more sheep than people!) to the glacier-capped Southern Alps, New Zealand is a land of breathtaking beauty.

The People

Originally founded as a British Colony, New Zealand today is home to over 4.5 million people, known colloquially as “Kiwis.” The people of New Zealand are a relaxed, welcoming people who enjoy the outdoors and the “no worries” attitude that influences their everyday lives. Living in such a rugged country filled with great diversity and natural beauty, outdoor activities are most generally the preference over indoor options for relaxation. Although the fastest-growing religion of New Zealand is secularism and unbelief, the message from Matthew remains true that the “fields are ripe unto harvest.”

The Missions Work

From youth rallies to kids’ events, from church services to evangelistic outreach, opportunities abound to share the gospel and spread God’s love in New Zealand. The national pastors and American missionaries in New Zealand have seen the fruits of their labors, as they strive together for the sake of the gospel.

The Polynesian Maori were New Zealand’s first inhabitants and settled as early as 800 A.D. Hunting and fishing people, the Maori sustained themselves with the rich natural resources the island provided. These resources lured European explorers to the islands in the late 18th century. In 1840, a treaty was signed between the United Kingdom and Maori chiefs, which granted Britain sovereignty over the island. Twenty years later, the UK established its first colony. Tension between the Maori and British settlers over land rights erupted in conflict and the eventual defeat of the Maori. By the 1890’s, a constitutional government emerged, and in 1947 New Zealand became autonomous. Regarded as one the least corrupt nations in the world, New Zealand stands at the forefront of Pacific affairs and has embarked on numerous international peacekeeping missions.

Since the 1960’s, New Zealand has seen dynamic growth among charismatic groups and many dynamic churches have emerged. But non-belief is increasingly prevalent. In 1951 only 1% identified themselves as non-religious, but by 2010 that number grew to 33%! It is estimated that by 2020, Christianity will cease to be the majority religion and will be replaced by non-religious thought. A post-Christian nation, New Zealand faces growing secularism, which has infiltrated education and political policies. Prostitution, which was legalized in 2003, exemplifies the rapid moral decline facing this nation. The Church is in great need of unity amidst growing indifference. Pray that Truth would infiltrate a society increasingly lost in darkness.