This dictionary investigates the specific linguistic landscape of New Zealand English by documenting both regional vocabulary and standard international English usage. R. W. Burchfield, a noted lexicographer, compiles this reference to provide a comprehensive record of the lexicon utilized within New Zealand. The work serves as a structured linguistic resource, integrating both English and Maori terminology to reflect the unique cultural and social context of the region.

Experts recognize this volume as a foundational reference for the study of New Zealand English. Readers frequently note the clarity of the definitions and the utility of the illustrative phrases in understanding regional dialect nuances.