New Zealand

Overview

• New Zealand is a remote, mountainous group of islands off the southeast coast of Australia.
• Official Name: New Zealand/Aotearoa (Maori)
• Government: Parliamentary democracy
• Capital: Wellington
• Population: 4,545,627
• Official Languages: English and Maori
• Currency: New Zealand dollar
• Area: 103,883 square miles (269,055 square kilometers)
• Major Mountain Ranges: Southern Alps, Kaikoura Ranges
• Major Rivers: Waikato, Clutha, Rangitaiki, Wanganui, Manawatu, Buller, Rakaia, Waitaki, Waiau

Geography

• Consists of two main islands, North and South Islands, separated by the Cook Strait.
• Nearest neighbor: Australia, 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away.
• Formed 23 million years ago by volcanic activity. More than 50 volcanoes, some active.
• Notable feature: Mount Cook (Maori: "Cloud Piercer") at 12,316 feet (3,754 meters).

People & Culture

• Residents known as "Kiwis."
• Predominantly urban population, 86% live in cities.
• Auckland is the largest city.
• Maori culture is respected and land disputes have been resolved in their favor.
• Popular sports: Rugby (All Blacks team), cricket.

Nature

• Rich in unique wildlife, many species are flightless birds.
• Introduction of non-native animals has led to extinction of half of the land animals.
• Conservation: Fewer than 75,000 wild kiwis remain.
• Notable creatures: giant weta, kakapo, kokako, tuatara.
• Marine life: whales, orcas.

Government & Economy

• Parliamentary democracy with 122 seats in the House of Representatives.
• Seven seats reserved for Maori representation.
• Dominant political parties: National and Labour.
• Economy heavily relies on tourism and exports like lamb, butter, kiwifruit, and wine.

History

• Maori arrived from Polynesia around 1,000 A.D.
• 1600s: Dutch explorer Abel Tasman visited, named the region Nieuw Zeeland.
• 1769: Captain James Cook established British settlements.
• 1840: Treaty signed with Maori; later protests and conflicts over land.
• 1893: First country to grant women voting rights.
• 1907: Became a dominion of Britain, gained independence in 1947.

Additional Notes

• The lecture included information about New Zealand's unique geographical and biological characteristics that contribute to its distinct cultural and environmental identity.