Culture Introduction. Key Facts Introduction. History of New Zealand, the Youngest Country. Māori were the first to arrive in New Zealand, journeying in canoes from Hawaiki about 1,000 years ago. A Dutchman, Abel Tasman, was the first European to sight the country but it was the British who made New Zealand part of their empire. In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, an agreement between the British Crown and Maori. It established British law in New Zealand and is considered New Zealand’s founding document and an important part of the country's history. The building where the treaty was signed has been preserved and, today, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a popular attraction.
You'll find amazing Māori historic sites and taonga (treasures) - as well as beautiful colonial-era buildings - dotted throughout the country. A walk around any New Zealand city today shows what a culturally diverse and fascinating country we have become. National Parks. New Zealand's national parks cover more than 30,000 square kilometres, full to the brim with beautiful, natural scenery ready to explore. Visit New Zealand’s national parks if you want to discover the natural soul of the land. The real gems of this country, the national parks preserve the natural heritage, forests, wildlife and landscapes, close to – and in some cases, exactly – as it was before man was here.
North Island National Parks Te Urewera – Most famous for its remote, rugged forest and lakes, it includes the Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk. Tongariro – A dual World Heritage area and a place of extremes and surprises; featuring active volcanoes and the Tongariro Northern Circuit Great Walk. Whanganui – Tramping tracks through wild lowland forests and river trips down the mighty Whanganui are popular activities. Egmont – Dominated by the 2518m high volcanic peak of Mt Taranaki (also known as Mt Egmont), which offers a challenging climb and spectacular views. South Island National Parks. Nature Introduction.
Regions Introduction. New Zealand Key Facts, Key Facts on New Zealand. N.Plymouth (more) High: 20 Low: 15 New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests. Although it is roughly comparable in size to Japan or Colorado, New Zealand's population is only just over four million people, making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it an ideal year-round holiday destination. New Zealand Key Information Click on one of the links below to find out more about New Zealand.
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