About New Zealand

Geography

New Zealand is an island country facing Australia to the northwest and Fiji to the north. The country is made up of two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, which are separated by the Cook Strait in between. New Zealand's capital, Wellington, is found on the southern tip of the North Island. Due to its unique geographic position, New Zealand is officially recognized as one of the first counties in the world to see the Sun.

History

New Zealand's first settlers were Polynesians who arrived around 1250 - 1300 and subsequently developed the country's unique Maori culture. In 1624, the country was sighted by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman, who named it Staten Landt. British explorer James Cook later anglicised the name to "New Zealand".

In 1769, Cook mapped almost the entire coastline of New Zealand, paving the way for frequent visits from European and North American trading ships. In 1840, the British Crown and the Maori signed the famous Treaty of Waitangi, officially making New Zealand a British colony. It is said that two versions of the treaty existed, one in English, and one in Maori. Discrepancy of the treaty clauses due to mistranslation would eventually lead to misunderstanding between the Maori community and the government for some time.

In 1907 New Zealand was proclaimed a self-governing dominion within the British Empire. In 1947, New Zealand took a major step in its road to independence when its parliament was granted full legislative powers. By 1949, New Zealanders officially became known as "New Zealand citizens".

Capital

The Capital of New Zealand is Wellington, the second most populous urban area of the country.

Economy

Over the past two decades, New Zealand has successfully transcended from an agriculture-based economy to an industry-based economy dictated by free market. However, agricultural products such as dairy products and wool continue to be the country's main exports.

Climate

New Zealand annual temperatures of 8 degrees Celsius in the South Island and 16 degrees Celsius in the North Island. The warmest months are January and February, while the coldest is July. Though New Zealand generally does not experience drastic temperature change, there are days when temperature could rise or fall sharply. An important thing to take note is that UV levels can be high especially in the North Island, due mainly to extended daytime and lack of air pollutants.

Population

New Zealand has a population of around 4 million people, compared to well over 20 million in Malaysia. Most of its population are settled in the North Island.

Currency Exchange

One New Zealand Dollar = -3.15 Malaysian Ringgit (for reference only)

Time Zone

New Zealand’s standard time is four hours faster than Malaysia’s. During the summer (October - March), daylight saving is observed, and time difference between New Zealand and Malaysia becomes five hours.

Standard Opening Hours

For Banks: 8:30am - 4:30pm

For Offices: 9:00am - 5:00pm (Mon to Fri)

For Shops: 9:00am - 5:00pm (Mon to Fri). most shops are opened during the weekends

Electricity

220 - 240 V, Type 1 electric socket with two or three flat pins.

Significant National Public Holiday

On 6 February, New Zealand celebrates Waitangi Day, which commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document.

Iconic Floral Symbol

The Koru, a spiral shape based on the silver fern frond, is one of New Zealand's most famous icons. In the lush tropical rainforest region of New Zealand, silver ferns used to serve as landmark markers for Maori hunters making their way home.

National Bird

Kiwi, a species of flightless bird that reportedly sleeps around 20 hours a day, is a national symbol of New Zealand. The term "Kiwi" is so closely associated with the country that it has become a colloquial nickname for New Zealanders as a whole.