New Zealand
A land of rolling pastoral landscapes and soaring mountains, the geography of New Zealand is just the tip of the iceberg. In fact, New Zealand dwells in splendid geographical isolation as the largest visible part of Zealandia, a submerged continent half the size of Australia. Most people are familiar with these sights, because they served as the backdrop for the epic, Academy Award-winning Lord of the Rings series.
A developed nation, New Zealand is known for its high quality of life, pleasant people, and progressive policies. The government is rated in the top three in fiscal transparency. The culture is mostly British-influenced, with indigenous Maori and other Australasian characteristics.
Despite being a modern nation, agriculture and livestock products such as wool and milk continue to play a major role as exports enriching the economy.
Thanks to peaceful surroundings (aside from volcanoes), good weather, a prosperous land, and a different take on living, New Zealanders are reputed to find comparatively greater satisfaction in life than their wealthy and powerful Anglo-American allies.
However, these surroundings are not necessarily only peaceful – thrill-seekers can go to New Zealand to try hiking (known as tramping), bungee jumping, rafting, or the bizarre sport of zorbing. According to the Zorb website, people climb into a giant inflatable ball and roll down hills, making New Zealand “lead the world in stupid things to do while you're on a vacation.” Nevertheless, New Zealand promises unforgettable experiences and sights that people will remember for a lifetime.
Climate
The climate in New Zealand is mild with maritime temperate conditions in the south and subtropical areas on part of the northern island.
Health and Safety
Religion and Festivals
The majority of New Zealanders identify with various Christian denominations while a third do not identify with any religious faith.
Transportation
Most travelers arrive in New Zealand by air, since the nearest major country, Australia, is well over a thousand miles away. Buses and trains are commonly used within the country, and the roads are in good condition. Biking is also a popular option as traffic is not a problem and there is no shortage of good scenery.
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