Did You Know Facts about New Zealand?
New Zealand is a nation of incredible beauty, culture, and heritage. It is a country of amazing geographical wonders, a proud past, and a resilient future. Here are some lesser-known facts about this beautiful country, which you may not have heard before.
History
New Zealand’s history is filled with interesting stories that go back centuries. It was discovered by some of the Polynesian voyagers in the 13th century; however, the main landmass was discovered by the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in the mid-1600s. On the 6th February 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed by the British and Māori chiefs. This was a defining factor in the history and culture of New Zealand, as it had a major impact on the rights of the Māori people.
Military
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) comprises of three services: the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force. It is responsible for protecting New Zealand’s interests both at home and overseas. Its main purpose is to protect New Zealand from potential threats, support international peace keeping and coalition missions, and maintain the integrity of the government.
Native Animals
New Zealand is home to a large number of native animal species, some of which can only be found in the country. The Kiwi bird is the country’s national symbol, and is the only flightless bird in the world. Also, the endemic species, the Hector’s dolphin, is the smallest and rarest species of dolphins in the world.
Languages
One of New Zealand’s two official languages is English; however, Te Reo Māori is also an official language. Te Reo (the language of the Māori people) is the first language of many New Zealanders, and is spoken by nearly one million people.
Economy
New Zealand is one of the most developed economies in the world. Its main sources of income are from the agriculture, tourism and service industries, andoffshore trade. It is one of the world’s largest exporters of dairy products, and is the world’s largest supplier of wool.
Drinks
New Zealand is home to some of the world’s best and most famous wines. The Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc in particular has gained recognition worldwide and is greatly acclaimed by wine connoisseurs. Other popular drinks are the beers from the craft breweries, and virtual tour experiences of some of the country’s top wineries.
Sports
New Zealand is renowned for its love of sport, particularly rugby. This passion for rugby has been present since the first international match was played in 1874. New Zealanders also enjoy a number of other sports such as cricket, netball, and football.
Culture
New Zealand is home to an incredibly diverse culture of art, music, film, theatre, and dance. The vibrant and creative cities provide the perfect opportunity to explore the country’s amazing culture.
Climate
New Zealand’s climate varies from region to region. There are two main seasons – summer and winter. The North Island experiences a subtropical climate and is mostly dry, while the South Island experiences a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters. The country averages 2,034 hours of sunshine a year, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the cold winter months.
Nature and Wildlife
New Zealand is home to a vast array of spectacular flora and fauna. The country is particularly known for its stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, lush native forests, majestic mountains, and other natural wonders. The native wildlife is also something to behold, with a diverse range of species including rare birds and unique marine wildlife.
Cuisine
The New Zealand cuisine is a reflection of its unique culture and heritage. The country has embraced its beautiful natural ingredients, and combined them with modern cooking techniques to create a cuisine that is truly world-class. Popular dishes such as Pavlova, Hangi, and Fish and Chips are all staples of New Zealand cuisine.
Maori Culture
The Māori people are the indigenous Polynesians of New Zealand and have called the land home for over 800 years. Māori culture is central to the nation’s culture, and is reflected in art, music, language, and more. The Māori language is still spoken by a large proportion of the population, and traditional Māori ceremonies and celebrations still occur today.
Adventure Activities
New Zealand is a dream destination for adventure seekers from around the world. From skydiving to bungee jumping, kayaking to white water rafting, and mountain climbing to hiking, the country offers a wealth of adrenaline-filled activities. There’s something for everyone, regardless of experience level.
Conclusion
New Zealand is a truly unique country. From its breathtaking scenery, to its vibrant culture, to its abundance of adventure activities, there is something to do for everyone. With a rich history and a diverse population, New Zealand is a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to explore the world.
