New Zealand
New Zealand is a centralized democracy acknowledging titular allegiance to the British Crown. Made a British colony in 1840 by the Treaty of Waitangi, signed by all but a few of the indigenous Maori tribes, it has been self-governing since 1852 and fully independent since 1947. It is a member of the Commonwealth. A full free trade agreement signed with Australia in 1983 has closely integrated those two economies.
The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) works in partnership with the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand (PCANZ) in Vanuatu, Fiji and Taiwan. A partnership relation has been established between the Synod of Alaska-Northwest and the Maori Synod. Exchange visits have taken place over the years. Numerous. pastors in the PC(USA) participate in pulpit exchanges with PCANZ pastors and work closely with them on peacemaking programs. The PCANZ takes a clear stance in support of Nuclear Free Pacific.
The Maori Synod is in need of training for pastors and lay leaders in working for racial justice and youth ministry.
New Zealand Partner Churches
Council for Mission and Ecumenical Cooperation
Maori Synod
Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand
Synod Partnership
Learn more about New Zealand
Visit the BBC country profile.
