FACTS AT A GLANCE

Capital City: Wellington
Area: 268,680 sq km (103,737 sq miles)
Religion: Predominantly Christian (75%)

People
New Zealand has a multi-cultural population of just over 4 million people. The majority of New Zealanders are of British descent, with the largest minority being the New Zealand Maori. Other significant minorities include Pacific Island peoples and Asian. New Zealand is also home to South African, Dutch, Greek, German, French, Scandinavian & Dalmatian amongst others. New Zealand is a member of the British Commonwealth.

Language
English is the common language spoken in New Zealand. Maori is also an official language with many other languages also spoken.

Currency
New Zealand's unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZ$).

Geography
Situated in the South Pacific Ocean. Comprised of two major islands, the North Island and the South Island, New Zealand is approximately 266,200 sq km. Due to its geographic isolation New Zealand boasts some of the worlds most unique flora and fauna.
 
Political
New Zealand’s Government is formed from a democratically elected House of Representatives. The House of Representatives is elected using the mixed member proportional representation (MMP) voting system. The Government advises the head of State who is the Queen.

Export Markets
Predominately meat & dairy with manufactured products comprising a large percentage. Primary products and metals also constitute a significant market.

Time Zone
As the first OECD country to see the new day means that New Zealand’s working day spans the afternoon on the West Coast of America, the Asian day, right through to breakfast in Europe.

Climate
Southern temperate zone. Raincoat essential. Warm clothing suitable most of year. Seasons reversed from Northern Hemisphere.