About New Zealand

New Zealand (Aotearoa)

New Zealand’s incredible landscapes, forests, amazing wildlife and pleasant climate make it a haven for many outdoor activities, and a great place to unwind. New Zealand society is diverse, sophisticated, and multicultural, and the honesty, friendliness and openness of New Zealanders (also known as Kiwis) will impress you.

Stunning landscapes and unique wildlife make New Zealand a paradise for nature lovers. It is a lush country, holding many attractions for visitors with its dramatically changing visage up and down the countryside and variety of outdoor pursuits, for those looking for scenery and peacefulness to the thrill seeker. The great advantage of New Zealand is that all of its diverse physical, cultural, and artistic landscapes are so close to each other!

With a thousand years of human settlement, New Zealand has a colourful and dramatic history, dominated by the relationship between Maori and Pakeha (Europeans). Since the first people arrived many cultures have made New Zealand home. We have a unique and dynamic society, with European, Maori, Pacific and Asian influences. We celebrate the many different lifestyles we live, and the stories we have to tell.

Equivalent in size to Great Britain, California or Japan, New Zealand has a population of only 4 million – making it one of the world’s least crowded countries.

www.newzealand.com

Auckland

Auckland's waterside location has fostered the locals' love affair with the sea, earning this place the name "City of Sails".

Auckland sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. A cloak of rainforest covers the surrounding hills, dozens of dormant volcanic cones dot the landscape and enchanting holiday islands are scattered throughout the vast Hauraki Gulf.

Auckland's heart beats to a Polynesian rhythm, its people a melting pot of South Pacific and Asian cultures and a strong indigenous Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of unique dining and shopping experiences.

Auckland's temperate climate, easy access to the coast and variety of activities earn the city consistent top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys.

www.aucklandnz.com