New Zealand

File:New Zealand national anthem, performed by the United States Navy Band.wav

Detail of 1657 map Polus Antarcticus by Jan Janssonius, showing Nova Zeelandia

Polynesian Migration

Cook chart of New Zealand

Treatyofwaitangi

1863 Meeting of Settlers and Maoris at Hawke's Bay, New Zealand

New Zealand is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of two main landmasses—the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu)—and around 600 smaller islands, covering a total area of 268,021 square kilometers. New Zealand is situated some 1,500 kilometers east of Australia across the Tasman Sea and roughly 1,000 kilometers south of the Pacific island areas of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga. Because of its remoteness, it was one of the last lands to be settled by humans.

History

The history of New Zealand dates back to approximately 1300 AD, when it was discovered and settled by Polynesians, who developed a distinct Māori culture. The first European to sight New Zealand was Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642. British explorer James Cook later extensively mapped the islands in 1769. In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, making New Zealand a colony of the British Empire and setting the stage for increased European settlement.

Geography

New Zealand's diverse landscapes include vast mountain ranges, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fjords, and lush rainforests. The country's isolation has fostered the development of a unique flora and fauna, with many species, especially birds, evolving in isolation from the rest of the world. Notable geographic features include the Southern Alps, Lake Taupo, and the Fiordland National Park.

Government and Politics

New Zealand is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state, represented locally by a Governor-General. The New Zealand Parliament consists of a single house, the House of Representatives. New Zealand's political system has evolved over time to become more representative and democratic, with the introduction of proportional representation in 1996 significantly changing the political landscape.

Economy

The New Zealand economy is a modern, prosperous, and developed market economy with an estimated GDP of USD 204 billion in 2020. Key sectors include agriculture, horticulture, fishing, forestry, and mining. The country is known for its export of wool, dairy products, and wine. Tourism also plays a significant role in the economy, with the country's stunning landscapes and rich Maori culture attracting visitors from around the world.

Culture

New Zealand's culture is mainly derived from Māori and early British settlers, with recent broad influences from Asia, Polynesia, and Latin America. The country's diverse cultural heritage is expressed in the arts, literature, music, and sports. Rugby union is considered the national sport and plays a significant part in New Zealand's national identity.

Demographics

As of the latest census, New Zealand had a population of approximately 5 million people. The majority of New Zealand's population is of European descent, with the indigenous Māori being the largest minority. Other significant ethnic groups include Asians and Pacific Islanders. English is the predominant language, with Māori and New Zealand Sign Language also being official languages.

Environmental Conservation

New Zealand is renowned for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. The country has numerous national parks, marine reserves, and heritage sites that are protected by law. Efforts are continually made to preserve the natural heritage, including the protection of endangered species and the restoration of natural habitats.