The pattern of fasting serum lipids, with emphasis on high density lipoprotein cholesterol, and the relationship of the lipids with each other and with other risk factors is examined in a population based sample of New Zealand Maoris. There are no sex differences in the distribution of total cholesterol and cholesterol fractions but triglycerides are higher in men. High density lipoprotein cholesterol levels are lower in Maoris than reported in other populations. High density lipoprotein cholesterol is negatively correlated with low density lipoprotein cholesterol but not associated with total cholesterol. High density lipoprotein cholesterol is negatively correlated with body mass index and in men high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels are higher in current alcohol drinkers. The possible relationship between the low levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol and the high risk of coronary heart disease in Maoris requires investigation.