From 1976 to 1989 the studies of New Zealand literature in China came into being. This period held a special significance for the dissemination of New Zealand literature in China. On one hand, China was on a transition stage. On the other hand, the domestic foreign literature research began to get into the right track. The blending of discipline budding and historical transition left a deep mark on the contemporary studies of New Zealand literature. On the whole, the research of New Zealand literature represented the following characteristics: the research paradigm shifted from the class-centered to the aesthetic-centered analysis; scholars surveyed New Zealand literature for the purpose of popularization; the studies of Maori literature began to emerge; investigators kept a close eye on the trends of contemporary New Zealand literature; the one hundredth anniversary of Katherine Mansfield promoted the relevant translation and criticism. The number of academic achievements was not very large, but the translation and criticism of New Zealand literature from 1976 to 1989 became a crucial stage in the studies of New Zealand literature in China.