NZ

New Zealand (NZ) is a sovereign island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, along with numerous smaller islands. It lies about 1,500 kilometers southeast of Australia across the Tasman Sea and experiences a range of climates and landscapes, from beaches and farmland to rugged mountains, rainforests, and fjords.

NZ is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. The head of state is the monarch, represented by a governor-general, and the prime minister serves as head of government. The unicameral Parliament, the House of Representatives, uses mixed-member proportional representation. Official languages are English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language. The capital is Wellington, while Auckland is the largest city and economic center.

As of the early 2020s, New Zealand has about 5 million residents. The economy is highly developed and services-driven, with important sectors including agriculture (notably dairy), manufacturing, tourism, and information technology. The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is the currency.

The Māori people arrived sometime before European contact, and the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 established a foundational relationship between Māori and the Crown. New Zealand became a dominion in 1907 and achieved full sovereignty in the mid-20th century. Its society is characterized by immigration, diverse cultures, and a strong emphasis on social welfare and education.

The country is known for its natural beauty and environmental conservation efforts. It hosts unique flora and fauna, including species such as the kiwi and kakapo. The climate is temperate, with regional variations; the South Island features the Southern Alps, while the North Island has volcanic regions and geothermal areas. The culture includes a prominent film industry, rugby union, and a rich arts scene.