Suggest me a book to read about or taking place in Aotearoa/New Zealand

I'm traveling to New Zealand from the U.S. for the first time and I would love to hear recommendations for:

1. Any books that folks from the region consider essential reading to understand the country and culture.

2. Great novels or non-fiction written by people from Aotearoa/New Zealand

3. Books by Maori authors and stories that contain Maori perspectives

4. Any books from/about Aotearoa/New Zealand that you have enjoyed

Thank you!!!!