New Zealand Facts

New Zealand, State of Oceania; 270 530 km², 4.9 million residents (2019).New Zealand is located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, 1,600 km southeast of Australia, and consists of the North Island (115,777 km ² ), the South Island (151 215 km ² ) and Stewart Island (1,746 km) as well as a number of smaller islands (together 2 542 km ² ). New Zealand also includes the Tokelau Islands (about 10 km ² ) and the two autonomous territories of Cook Islands and Niue Island. The capital is Wellington (215,400 residents, 2018), located on the southern North Island.

Country facts

• New Zealand / New Zealand, Aotearoa (Maori)
• Country abbreviation: NZ
• Area: 270 530 km²
• Population (2019): 4.9 million residents
• Capital: Wellington
• Main languages: English, Maori
• State: Monarchy
• Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
• Head of Government: Jacinda Ardern
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 41,966
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 40,820
• Currency unit: 1 New Zealand dollar = 100 cents
• Currency code: NZD
• Country number (telephony): 64
• Internet domain name: nz
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +11
• National Day: February 6 (New Zealand became British colony in 1840)
• Independence Day: November 25, 1947

Nature

• Land use: forest (27%), agricultural land (12%), other (61%)
• Highest mountain: Cook (3,764 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 18 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 0.5%; birth rate 12 ‰, death rate 7 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (19%), 15-64 (66%), 65- (15%)
• Average life expectancy (2019): men 80 years, women 84 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 4 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 6 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.917 (place 16 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 86%
• Most populous cities (2018): Auckland (1.5 million residents), Christchurch (377,200)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (6%), industry (22%), service (72%)
• Exports of goods (2017): US $ 37,350 million
• Main export products: dairy products, meat, wood products
• Main exporting countries: China, Australia, USA
• Imports (2017): US $ 39,740 million
• Main import products: oil products, machinery, means of transport
• Main importing countries: China, Australia, USA
• Railway network (2018): 4 100 km

Geography of New Zealand

Location

New Zealand is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses—the North Island and the South Island—as well as over 600 smaller islands. New Zealand is situated about 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) southeast of Australia, its closest neighbor across the Tasman Sea, and approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) south of the Pacific island nation of Fiji. Due to its remote location, New Zealand is known for its unique biodiversity and distinctive landscapes.

Topography

New Zealand’s topography is incredibly varied, characterized by rugged mountains, rolling hills, volcanic plains, and sprawling beaches. The South Island is home to the Southern Alps, which stretch the length of the island and include New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook, standing at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet). The North Island features a more varied landscape, including active geothermal areas such as Rotorua, lush forests, and fertile farmland. Between the two main islands lies the Cook Strait, which separates the North and South Islands. New Zealand’s coastal regions are marked by steep cliffs, bays, and sandy beaches, providing stunning natural beauty.

Rivers and Lakes

New Zealand is home to many rivers and lakes, many of which are set against dramatic backdrops. The Waikato River, located on the North Island, is the longest river in New Zealand, flowing from Lake Taupo to the Tasman Sea. Lake Taupo, the largest lake in the country, is located in the central North Island and was formed by a massive volcanic eruption over 26,000 years ago. Other significant lakes include Lake Wakatipu, located in the South Island, and Lake Te Anau, which is known for its clear waters and scenic beauty.

Natural Resources

New Zealand’s natural resources are diverse and have played a significant role in the country’s economic development. The country is rich in agricultural land, ideal for farming and livestock grazing. New Zealand also has significant mineral resources, particularly in gold, coal, and natural gas, although mining is a small part of the overall economy. The nation’s forests, such as the native beech and podocarp forests, provide timber, and the country has vast expanses of protected land, including national parks and marine reserves.

Climate of New Zealand

Temperate Climate

New Zealand has a temperate climate, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall, which varies significantly between regions. The climate is largely influenced by the surrounding ocean, which helps to moderate temperatures. Summers tend to be warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winters are relatively cool, with temperatures typically ranging between 0°C and 15°C (32°F to 59°F), depending on the region. Coastal areas enjoy milder temperatures, while the inland areas and mountains can experience more extreme weather conditions, such as snow and frost in winter.

Rainfall and Regional Variations

Rainfall in New Zealand varies considerably, with the West Coast of the South Island being one of the wettest places in the world. The region receives more than 7,500 millimeters (295 inches) of rainfall annually in some areas, largely due to the prevailing westerly winds and the mountains that intercept moisture from the Tasman Sea. In contrast, the eastern regions of the South Island, such as Canterbury, are much drier, with some areas experiencing semi-arid conditions. The North Island generally receives moderate rainfall, but the coastal areas tend to be drier than the inland regions, which can receive more precipitation due to the influence of mountain ranges.

Extreme Weather

New Zealand is not prone to extreme weather, but it does experience occasional severe weather events, particularly during the summer and winter months. Cyclones occasionally affect the North Island, especially between December and March, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and coastal flooding. The country is also at risk of earthquakes, particularly in the Wellington and Christchurch areas, due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Volcanic eruptions, especially on the North Island, can also pose a threat.

People of New Zealand

Population

New Zealand has a population of around 5 million people. The population is relatively young, with a median age of around 37 years, and it continues to grow due to immigration, particularly from countries like the United Kingdom, China, and India. Most of the population resides in urban areas, with major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch being economic and cultural hubs. The country’s urban areas are often surrounded by scenic landscapes, which add to New Zealand’s reputation for being one of the most livable places in the world.

Ethnic Composition

New Zealand is a culturally diverse country with a mix of indigenous Māori people, descendants of European settlers, and immigrants from across the world. The Māori make up about 15% of the population, and their culture, language, and traditions play a significant role in the country’s identity. The European-descended population, known as Pākehā, comprises the largest ethnic group, but the country also has growing communities of Pacific Islanders, Asians, and others. Over recent decades, immigration has contributed to the increasing ethnic diversity of New Zealand, with significant Chinese, Indian, and Samoan communities, particularly in major cities.

Language

The official languages of New Zealand are English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language. English is the most widely spoken language, and it is used in government, business, and education. Māori, the language of the indigenous Māori people, is also an official language and has seen a resurgence in recent decades, thanks to efforts to revitalize and preserve it through education and media. New Zealand Sign Language, the main language of the deaf community, was officially recognized in 2006. Many people in New Zealand speak more than one language, reflecting the country’s multicultural society.

Religion

New Zealand is a secular country with a diverse range of religious beliefs. Christianity has traditionally been the dominant religion, and the country has a significant number of Protestant denominations, including Anglicanism, Presbyterianism, and Methodism. Catholicism also has a notable presence. However, New Zealand is increasingly secular, with a growing proportion of the population identifying as non-religious. There are also smaller communities of Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and other religious groups, particularly due to immigration from Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Economy of New Zealand

Agriculture and Forestry

Agriculture plays a major role in New Zealand’s economy, accounting for a large portion of the country’s export revenue. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of dairy products, with large-scale dairy farming being a key industry. Other important agricultural products include beef, lamb, wool, and horticultural products like kiwifruit, apples, and wine. New Zealand’s forestry sector is also significant, producing timber and wood products for both domestic use and export.

Tourism

Tourism is another important sector of New Zealand’s economy, contributing significantly to employment and export earnings. The country is known for its natural beauty, which includes beaches, mountains, forests, and lakes. Adventure tourism, including activities like bungee jumping, skiing, and hiking, attracts visitors from around the world. Iconic locations such as Fiordland National Park, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and the Wellington waterfront draw millions of tourists every year, contributing billions of dollars to the national economy.

Manufacturing and Industry

New Zealand’s industrial sector is diverse, with manufacturing being focused on food processing, electronics, and textiles. Food manufacturing, particularly dairy products, meat processing, and wine production, makes up a significant portion of the country’s manufacturing output. The country also has a small but growing tech sector, with industries focused on software development, digital services, and biotechnology. Despite its technological potential, New Zealand is not as industrialized as some other developed nations, and much of its manufacturing sector is focused on raw materials or natural products.

Services Sector

The services sector in New Zealand is rapidly expanding and includes finance, education, healthcare, and professional services. New Zealand is increasingly known for its innovation in technology, design, and creative industries, particularly in the film sector. The country’s government has actively supported the film and media industries, contributing to the success of internationally acclaimed films like “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. The growing services sector, along with agriculture and tourism, positions New Zealand as a diverse and resilient economy.

Economic Challenges

Despite its economic success, New Zealand faces challenges, such as income inequality, housing affordability, and reliance on exports. The country’s small domestic market means that it is heavily dependent on international trade, particularly with China, Australia, and the United States. Environmental concerns, such as climate change, also pose risks to the agricultural and tourism industries, which are highly sensitive to changing weather patterns. The government has worked to address these issues through policy reforms and sustainability initiatives, focusing on reducing carbon emissions and promoting green technologies.

Government of New Zealand

Political System

New Zealand is a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy. The country’s political system is based on the principles of representative democracy, with the monarch, currently Queen Elizabeth II, serving as the head of state. However, the role of the monarch is largely ceremonial, and the real power lies with the elected government. New Zealand’s head of government is the prime minister, who is the leader of the majority party or coalition in the legislature.

Legislative Branch

The New Zealand Parliament consists of a unicameral legislature known as the House of Representatives, which has 120 members. Members are elected every three years through a mixed-member proportional (MMP) system, combining both constituency-based and party-list voting. The House of Representatives is responsible for making laws, approving the budget, and holding the government accountable. The country’s political system encourages coalition governments, as no single party typically wins an outright majority in Parliament.

Executive Branch

The executive branch is headed by the prime minister, who is the leader of the largest party in Parliament. The prime minister is appointed by the monarch, although the appointment is largely a formality, as it is based on the outcome of parliamentary elections. The prime minister is responsible for running the government and making executive decisions on policy matters. The Cabinet, consisting of senior ministers, assists the prime minister in governing and overseeing specific government portfolios.

Judiciary

New Zealand has an independent judiciary, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest court in the country. The judicial system is based on common law, inherited from its British colonial past. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting laws, ensuring justice, and protecting the rights of citizens. The courts play a crucial role in safeguarding New Zealand’s democratic principles, and the rule of law is fundamental to the country’s governance.

Culture of New Zealand

Māori Culture

Māori culture is an essential part of New Zealand’s identity, and the indigenous Māori people continue to influence the country’s customs, language, and traditions. The Māori arrived in New Zealand over 1,000 years ago, and their language, customs, and worldview shape the nation’s cultural landscape. Māori society is traditionally organized around whanau (family) and hapū (tribes), with an emphasis on collectivism, respect for the land, and spiritual beliefs. The haka, a traditional Māori war dance, is one of the most recognizable cultural symbols of New Zealand.

Arts and Music

New Zealand has a vibrant arts scene, with a rich history of visual arts, literature, and performance. The country is home to internationally acclaimed filmmakers, such as Peter Jackson, and its film industry has earned global recognition. New Zealand’s literary tradition includes prominent authors like Janet Frame, Witi Ihimaera, and Keri Hulme. Music is also an integral part of New Zealand culture, with genres ranging from traditional Māori music to contemporary pop, rock, and hip hop. The country’s music festivals, such as Rhythm and Vines and the Wellington Jazz Festival, celebrate local and international talent.

Festivals and Celebrations

New Zealand celebrates a variety of cultural and national events throughout the year. Waitangi Day, celebrated on February 6, marks the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 between the British Crown and Māori chiefs. It is an important day for reflecting on the nation’s history and Māori-Pākehā relations. Other festivals include Easter and Christmas celebrations, Māori cultural festivals, and the annual New Zealand International Arts Festival. The country also celebrates a growing number of multicultural festivals, reflecting the diversity of its population.

Cuisine

New Zealand’s cuisine is influenced by both its indigenous Māori culture and British colonial history, as well as modern global trends. Traditional Māori foods, such as kumara (sweet potato), hangi (a type of meal cooked in an earth oven), and seafood like mussels and paua, are still popular today. New Zealand is renowned for its dairy products, particularly cheese and milk, as well as lamb, beef, and wines, including Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Modern New Zealand cuisine emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with an emphasis on healthy eating and sustainability.

History of New Zealand

Māori Settlement and European Exploration

New Zealand’s history begins with the arrival of the Māori people from Polynesia, likely in the 13th century. The Māori settled the islands, establishing tribal communities and developing a rich cultural heritage that continues to influence the country. European exploration began in the early 17th century, with Dutch explorer Abel Tasman being the first European to sight New Zealand in 1642. British explorer James Cook arrived in 1769 and mapped the coastline, sparking European interest in the islands.

British Colonization

In the early 19th century, British settlers began arriving in New Zealand, establishing trading posts and missions. Tensions between Māori tribes and European settlers led to conflict over land ownership. In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the British Crown and Māori chiefs, which established British sovereignty over New Zealand while recognizing Māori land rights. However, disputes over land and sovereignty would continue to shape the country’s history for many years.

Modern New Zealand

New Zealand became a fully self-governing dominion of the British Empire in 1907 and achieved full independence with the Statute of Westminster in 1931. Over the course of the 20th century, the country developed into a modern, progressive nation. New Zealand was a significant player in both World Wars, contributing soldiers and resources. It also played a key role in global diplomacy and peacekeeping. Today, New Zealand is known for its strong commitment to human rights, environmental sustainability, and multiculturalism, with a growing focus on reconciliation with the Māori people and preserving their culture and language.

New Zealand Map