This report summarizes issues facing New Zealand's modern adult literacy movement and places it in the context of the rapidly changing skill demands of the 21st century. Part I introduces political, economic, and social issues facing New Zealand. Chapter 1 provides an overview of the issues and structures that create the current climate. Part II provides a history of adult literacy in New Zealand. Chapter 2 defines literacy for the 21st century; identifies how literate New Zealanders are, and considers literacy needs by industry. Chapter 3 provides a brief history of New Zealand's literacy movement, describes emergence of workplace literacy, and discusses theoretical underpinnings Freirean and competency-based models. Chapter 4 addresses national leadership and provision of services. Four case studies are presented in a two-page profile with this basic information: type of program; cost; goal; types of services; work-related outcomes; number of students; student selection; structure; curriculum; learner profile; funding source; reason for literacy program; institutional profile; other factors that contribute to success; and student suggestions. A more detailed exploration follows of a series of questions on three themes: motivation, barriers, and benefits. Part III includes recommendations for a long-term, comprehensive, coordinated adult literacy strategy in Chapter 5, with implications for the United States in Chapter 6. Appendixes include the National Literacy Act: Public Law 102-73, and case study interview questions. (Contains 93 references, 7 tables, and 6 figures.) (YLB)