Within the sites of male conviviality, mateship consists of a celebration and reaffirmation of masculinity. Central to this is an assertion of the abstract symbols of masculinity, particularly sexual and physical power, self control and control over others. This is often achieved through ritual behavior.
Another main construction of masculinity in New Zealand -- the concept of the Family Man -- had its foundation in the early colonial household and the mutual dependency of women and men within it. The male way of life involves primarily being associated with paid labor.
Last Modified: 15 March, 2002