New Zealand country

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A modern but sparsely populated country; it boasts natural beauty and a wide range of outdoor and adventure activities

New Zealand is a country of rare seismic beauty: glacial mountains, fast-flowing rivers, deep, clear lakes, hissing geysers and boiling mud. There are two main islands - The North Island and The South Island. There is also about a zillion other islands dotted around and about, none of which need concern you. It is estimated the Maori inhabited New Zealand around 800AD. The First European to set foot on New Zealand soil was Captain James Cook of England, in 1769. He also made the first, but inaccurate map of the country. Settlers from England started to arrive in the 1830's, and by 1840 a Treaty was signed between the crown and the chiefs of the Maori tribes. One hundred and seven years later, in 1947 New Zealand declared independence. Today New Zealand remains part of the Commonwealth, but as an independent country.There are also native forests, long, deserted beaches and a variety of fauna, such as the kiwi, native to its shores. In its long isolation New Zealand developed a distinctive fauna dominated by birds, many of which became extinct after the arrival of humans and the mammals they introduced. About 80% of New Zealand's flora is endemic, including 65 endemic genera. The two main types of forest are those dominated by the giant kauri and in cooler climates the southern beech. The remaining vegetation types in New Zealand are grasslands of tussock and other grasses, usually in sub-alpine areas, and the low shrub-lands between grasslands and forests. Unique birds capable of flight included the Haast's eagle, which was the world's largest bird of prey (now extinct), and the large kākā and kea parrots. Reptiles present in New Zealand include skinks, geckos and living fossil tuatara. There are four endemic species of primitive frogs. There are no snakes and there is only one venomous spider, the katipo, which is rare and restricted to coastal regions. Several islands located near to the three main islands are wildlife reserves where common pests such as possums and rodents have been eradicated to allow the reintroduction of endangered species to the islands.There are several main cities here: largest and most populated conurbation Auckland - "The City of Sails"; Tauranga known for its great weather, sun and beach; Rotorua - famous for Maori culture, geysers and hot pools; Wellington - the national capital, also known as "The Windy City". The next one offers an unmatched blend of culture, heritage, fine food, and lively arts and entertainment. It also home to one of the nation’s key attractions, the museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. New Zealand offers an unlimited selection of quality tourist attractions and activities for a fun-filled vacation. They include bungy jumping, sky diving, glacial hiking, horse trekking, health and beauty relaxation treatments, scenic flights and so much more.

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