South Island

New Munster in New Zealand (1846)

Opihi rock drawing2

Gilsemans 1642

Akaroa Harbour Ships And Whare

Gabriels Gully In Otago Gold Rush

Benmore Power Stn NZ

== South Island ==

The South Island (Māori: Te Waipounamu) is the larger of the two major islands of New Zealand, the other being the North Island. It is bordered to the north by the Cook Strait, to the west by the Tasman Sea, and to the south and east by the Pacific Ocean. The South Island covers an area of 150,437 square kilometers (58,084 square miles) and is the 12th-largest island in the world.

Geography

The South Island is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes, which include the Southern Alps, which run along the length of the island. The highest peak in the Southern Alps is Aoraki / Mount Cook, which stands at 3,724 meters (12,218 feet). Other notable geographic features include the Fiordland National Park, Abel Tasman National Park, and the Marlborough Sounds.

Climate

The climate of the South Island varies significantly from the north to the south. The northern part of the island has a temperate climate, while the southern part experiences a cooler, oceanic climate. The west coast is known for its high rainfall, while the east coast is generally drier.

Population

The South Island has a population of approximately 1.2 million people, which is about 23% of New Zealand's total population. The largest city on the South Island is Christchurch, followed by Dunedin and Nelson.

Economy

The economy of the South Island is diverse, with key industries including agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The island is known for its production of wine, particularly in the Marlborough wine region. Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy, with attractions such as Queenstown, Milford Sound, and the Franz Josef Glacier drawing visitors from around the world.

History

The South Island has a rich history, with the first inhabitants being the Māori people, who arrived in the 13th century. European exploration began in the 17th century, with the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman being the first European to sight the island in 1642. British colonization began in the 19th century, leading to significant changes in the island's demographics and culture.

Transportation

The South Island is well-connected by a network of roads and railways. The TranzAlpine train route is one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, running from Christchurch to Greymouth. The island also has several airports, with Christchurch International Airport being the largest.

Education

The South Island is home to several universities, including the University of Otago in Dunedin and the University of Canterbury in Christchurch. These institutions are known for their research and academic excellence.

Related Pages

• North Island
• Christchurch
• Dunedin
• Southern Alps
• Fiordland National Park
• Marlborough Sounds
• Aoraki / Mount Cook
• Māori people
• Abel Tasman National Park
• Queenstown, New Zealand
• Milford Sound
• Franz Josef Glacier
• TranzAlpine
• University of Otago
• University of Canterbury