NýjaSjálandi

NýjaSjálandi, commonly known in English as New Zealand, is a sovereign island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, along with numerous smaller islands. The country covers about 268,000 square kilometers and lies southeast of Australia across the Tasman Sea. Its population is around five million, with most people concentrated in urban areas on the North Island. The capital is Wellington, while Auckland is the largest city.

History and government: The islands were settled by Māori before European contact. New Zealand signed the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, establishing a framework for sovereignty and governance. The country evolved from a British colony to a dominion and later achieved full autonomy within the British Commonwealth. Today it is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. The monarch is the head of state, represented by a Governor-General, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. Parliament is unicameral, comprising the House of Representatives, elected by a mixed-member proportional system.

Economy and society: New Zealand has a high-income economy with services, manufacturing, and agriculture as major sectors. It is known for dairy products, meat, and tourism. The currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD). Official languages are English and Māori, with New Zealand Sign Language also recognised. The population is ethnically diverse, including substantial Māori, Pacific, and Asian communities.

Geography and culture: The landscape includes the Southern Alps, fjords, volcanic plateaus, and geothermal areas. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with strong Māori traditions alongside contemporary arts and cinema. Rugby union is a prominent sport, and the national team is the All Blacks. Notable UNESCO World Heritage sites include Tongariro National Park and Te Wahipounamu in the South Island.