Can you recommend some famous New Zealand novels?

One famous New Zealand novel is 'The Bone People' by Keri Hulme. It's a complex and deeply emotional story that explores themes of family, identity, and cultural heritage.

There is also 'Mister Pip' by Lloyd Jones. It is set during a time of civil unrest in Bougainville. A young girl's world is transformed by the stories told by Mr. Watts, who reads aloud from Dickens' 'Great Expectations'.

A third example could be 'Once Were Warriors' by Alan Duff. It's a powerful and gritty story that delves into the issues faced by a Maori family, such as domestic violence, poverty, and the struggle to preserve cultural identity. It has also been adapted into a notable film.

The story of the Treaty of Waitangi is very well - known. It was signed between the Maori chiefs and the British Crown in 1840. This treaty has had a huge impact on the relationship between the Maori people and the New Zealand government, and it's a story full of historical, cultural, and political significance that is still relevant today.

Some top New Zealand novels include 'In the Clearing' by J. P. Pomare. It's a suspenseful thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. 'Potiki' by Patricia Grace is an important work that focuses on the Maori community, their values, and their struggle to preserve their land. And 'The God Boy' by Ian Cross is a classic. It's a coming - of - age story that explores the protagonist's relationship with religion and his family in a New Zealand setting.

One well - known New Zealand landscape novel is 'The Bone People' by Keri Hulme. It vividly portrays the New Zealand landscape, with its coastal areas, forests, and the unique relationship between the land and the characters. The description of the natural environment is an integral part of the story, shaping the mood and the development of the plot.

There's 'Mortal Engines' by Philip Reeve. The world it creates is full of amazing and fantastical elements. It has been very popular and has also been adapted into a movie. And of course, 'The Luminaries' by Eleanor Catton, while not a pure - bred fantasy in the traditional sense, has elements of the extraordinary and is set in New Zealand which gives it a certain local - flavoured fantasy - like feel.

Another notable New Zealand novel is 'Whale Rider' by Witi Ihimaera. This novel has been adapted into a successful movie. It tells the story of a young girl's journey to prove herself in a male - dominated Maori tribe, while also exploring the relationship between the Maori people and nature.

Vanda Symon's 'Overkill' is also worth checking out. Her writing delves deep into the dark side of New Zealand society in a mystery - thriller style, with well - developed characters and a gripping storyline.

Sure. 'The Luminaries' by Eleanor Catton is a great one. It's a complex and immersive story set during the gold rush in New Zealand, with elements of mystery and crime. Another is 'Vintage Murder' by Ngaio Marsh. She is a well - known New Zealand crime writer, and this book showcases her talent for creating engaging detective stories.