New Zealand
| File:Flag of New Zealand.svg | |
| Flag | |
| File:Coat of arms of New Zealand.svg | |
| Coat of arms | |
| Capital | Wellington |
|---|---|
| Largest city | Auckland |
| Official languages | English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language |
| Government type | Parliamentary democracy under constitutional monarchy |
| Monarch | Charles III |
| Prime Minister | Christopher Luxon |
| Area | 268,021 km² |
| Population | 5,122,600 (2024) |
| Currency | New Zealand dollar (NZD) |
| Time zone | NZST (UTC+12), NZDT (UTC+13) |
| Drives on | left |
| Calling code | +64 |
| Internet TLD | .nz |
Overview
New Zealand (Māori: Aotearoa) is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main landmasses — the North Island and the South Island — and over 700 smaller islands. Known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant biodiversity, and progressive society, New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy.
History
The islands were first settled by the Māori people around the 13th century. In 1642, Dutch explorer Abel Tasman was the first European to sight New Zealand. British colonization began in the 19th century, and the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs, forming the basis of modern governance.
New Zealand became a fully sovereign nation in 1947, though it remains a member of the Commonwealth with the British monarch as head of state.
Geography
New Zealand is known for its breathtaking and diverse natural scenery, ranging from volcanic plateaus and rolling hills to fjords and alpine ranges. It is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire and experiences regular seismic activity.
- **North Island** – home to the capital, Wellington, and the largest city, Auckland.
- **South Island** – noted for the Southern Alps and extensive national parks.
Government
New Zealand operates under a **parliamentary democracy** with a **constitutional monarchy**. The Prime Minister is the head of government, while the monarch serves as a ceremonial head of state.
It is known for political transparency, civil rights protections, and a proportional voting system (Mixed-Member Proportional representation).
Economy
New Zealand has a highly developed, export-oriented economy. Major industries include:
- Agriculture and dairy
- Tourism
- Forestry and fishing
- Technology and innovation
The national currency is the **New Zealand dollar (NZD)**.
Society and Culture
New Zealand is recognized for its inclusive and multicultural society. The indigenous Māori culture is deeply interwoven into national identity, particularly in language, arts, and ceremonies.
The country is also a global leader in gender equality, sustainability, and animal welfare.
Biodiversity
New Zealand is home to a range of unique wildlife, much of which is not found anywhere else. The most iconic species include the **kiwi bird**, **tuatara**, and various endemic tree and fern species. Conservation efforts are an integral part of national policy.
Education and Innovation
Education in New Zealand is compulsory and publicly funded. The country has globally recognized universities and ranks high in research and innovation metrics.
International Relations
New Zealand is a member of:
- The **United Nations**
- **Commonwealth of Nations**
- **OECD**
- **APEC**
- **Pacific Islands Forum**
It maintains a strong non-nuclear policy and promotes peacekeeping and human rights.