So were exactly is New Zealand?
New Zealand is situated 2000 kilometers South East of Australia, basically a three hour flight and was formed by two continental plates moving closer together. Actually New Zealand is still ”growing” as these plates are still moving.
Mountains and Volcanoes
The disadvantage to this is that New Zealand has many earth tremors and has a few volcanoes that could erupt at some time in the future. Few people know that New Zealand has between 10000 and 15000 earthquakes annually, but the vast majority are so weak that most go by unnoticed. On the other hand this movement of the techtonic plates has formed one of the most awesomely beautiful countries on the planet. With majestic flora and almost a idillic beach around every corner making New Zealand a top tourist choice and a perfect choice for immigrants.
Country of two islands
The country consists of two large islands (called the North and South Islands) with heaps of smaller islands dotted around them. New Zealand is known for its warmer climate as the temperatures don’t vary so wildly between the four seasons as you will find with most European countries. In Auckland the temperature rarely goes under 0 degrees celcius during winter and often reaches the mid to high 20’s in summer. The more South you live in winter, the lower the temperature.
Land of the long white cloud
New Zealand is also called Aotearoa, which in Maori translates into “the land of the long white cloud”. Most notably in winter the winds from the massive warm continent of Australia and the cold Antarctic air clash to create big swirls of cloud that blow across the country. This causes New Zealand to have an annual rainfall of around 600mm to 1600mm. The wet season is therefore in winter, though we do get downpours throughout the year.
The Kiwi Lifestyle
In summer the focus shifts to outdoor living, with the 4 million strong population enjoying most of their off time outside during this time. With the change of the season comes the end of the rain and the start of daylight saving time. Extended summer days are enjoyed relaxing on the shore, visiting with family and as would be expected water activities like boating, surfing, windsurfing and kite boarding are very popular. Fishing is also a favourite past time in New Zealand with some of the best fly and trout fishing spots.
What drives the economy
The Kiwi economy is mostly based on the farming and export sectors, especially the dairy, wine and fruit industries. There is also a vibrant filming industry with many top blockbuster movies being filmed in New Zealand. The most famous of these is the Lord of the Rings trilogy. There are also growing Information and Technology hubs in Auckland and Wellington.
