- Population:
- 5,214,000
- Religion:
- Christianity
New Zealand was first settled by the Māori people before European exploration in the 17th century. It became a British colony in the 19th century and gained full sovereignty in the 20th century. Today, it is known for its stable democracy, strong economy, and environmental conservation.
New Zealand is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, comprising two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, along with over 700 smaller islands. It lies approximately 2,000 kilometers southeast of Australia. Covering a total area of about 268,021 square kilometers, New Zealand has a population of approximately 5 million people as of 2023. The capital city is Wellington, while the largest city is Auckland. The official languages are English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language. New Zealand operates as a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy. The economy is advanced and diverse, with key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, services, and tourism. New Zealand is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastlines, as well as its indigenous Māori culture. The country is a member of international organizations such as the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
