New Zealand's food culture is diverse and influenced by a variety of factors such as its indigenous Maori roots and European colonization. Traditional Maori cuisine includes dishes such as hangi, where food is cooked in an earth oven, and seafood like kina (sea urchin) and paua (abalone). With the arrival of Europeans, dishes like roast lamb and fish and chips have become staples in New Zealand cuisine. Additionally, the country's abundance of fresh produce and seafood make it a popular destination for foodies. The casual and laid-back Kiwi culture also reflects in their food, with many meals being enjoyed outdoors and at barbeques. On top of that, the rise of multiculturalism has brought influences from Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine, resulting in a fusion of flavors in New Zealand dishes.