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Country Information
Key Regions & Cities
New Zealand has 16 regions across two main islands.
Top Attractions
Milford Sound
Stunning fiord with waterfalls, rainforests and dramatic peaks in Fiordland National Park.
Hobbiton Movie Set
The famous Lord of the Rings film set with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn.
Queenstown
Adventure capital with bungee jumping, skiing, and stunning Lake Wakatipu views.
Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Magical caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms on the ceiling.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
World's best one-day hike through volcanic landscapes including Mt Doom from LOTR.
Auckland Sky Tower
328m tall observation tower with panoramic views and thrilling SkyWalk/SkyJump.
Brief History of New Zealand
Māori Settlement
Polynesians arrive in waka (canoes) and establish Māori culture.
European Discovery
Dutch explorer Abel Tasman is first European to sight NZ.
Cook's Voyages
Captain James Cook maps NZ and claims it for Britain.
Treaty of Waitangi
Founding document signed between British Crown and Māori chiefs.
Self-Governance
NZ Constitution Act grants self-government from Britain.
Women's Suffrage
NZ becomes first country to grant women the right to vote.
Dominion Status
NZ becomes a Dominion within the British Empire.
Full Independence
NZ gains full independence through Statute of Westminster.
Economic Reforms
Rogernomics reforms transform NZ's economy.
Global Recognition
Lord of the Rings films showcase NZ landscapes globally.
Christchurch Attacks
Mass shooting leads to gun law reforms and national unity.
COVID-19 Response
NZ's elimination strategy gains international praise.
Travel Tips for Visitors
Visa Requirements
90-day visa-free entry for many nationalities. Check NZ immigration website before travel.
Currency & Payments
New Zealand Dollar (NZD). ATMs widely available. Credit cards accepted everywhere. Contactless payments common.
Transportation
Driving is best for exploring (left side!). Domestic flights connect main cities. Intercity buses available.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect Māori culture. Remove shoes in Māori meeting houses. Be environmentally conscious.
Best Times to Visit
New Zealand Cuisine
Must-try: Hangi, Pavlova, Fish & Chips, Lamb roast, Kiwi burger, Hokey pokey ice cream.
Major Festivals
Waitangi Day (Feb 6), ANZAC Day (Apr 25), Matariki (Māori New Year, Jun/Jul), Christmas (summer!).
Health Precautions
High hygiene standards. Tap water safe to drink. Sun protection essential (high UV).
Technology
Good 4G coverage in most areas. Free WiFi in many public places. SIM cards available at airport.
Nature & Hiking
Prepare for changeable weather. Many Great Walks require bookings. Respect DOC guidelines.
Shopping Tips
Look for Māori art, pounamu (greenstone), merino wool products, manuka honey.
Safety & Laws
Very safe country. Strict biosecurity laws - declare all food/plant items. Drink driving laws strictly enforced.