North To South New Zealand

• Country:New Zealand
• City:Wellington
• Weather:34°C, Wind
• Local time:4:10 PM
• Currency:New Zealand dollar
• Language:Maori
• Population:4.471 million

General Information About New Zealand

New Zealand is a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean consisting of 2 main islands, both marked by volcanoes and glaciation. Capital Wellington, on the North Island, is home to Te Papa Tongarewa, the expansive national museum. Wellington’s dramatic Mt. Victoria and the South Island’s Fiordland and Southern Lakes stood in for mythical Middle Earth in Peter Jackson’s "Lord of the Rings" films.

New Zealand’s history is not long, but it is fast. In less than a thousand years these islands have produced two new peoples: the Polynesian Maori and European New Zealanders. The latter are often known by their Maori name, ‘Pakeha’. New Zealand shares some of its history with the rest of Polynesia, and with other European settler societies, but has unique features as well. It is the similarities that make the differences so interesting, and vice versa. Maoris were the first inhabitants of New Zealand, arriving on the islands in about 1000. Maori oral history maintains that the Maoris came to the island in seven canoes from other parts of Polynesia. In 1642, New Zealand was explored by Abel Tasman, a Dutch navigator. British captain James Cook made three voyages to the islands, beginning in 1769. Britain formally annexed the islands in 1840.

The Treaty of Waitangi (Feb. 6, 1840) between the British and several Maori tribes promised to protect Maori land if the Maoris recognized British rule. Encroachment by British settlers was relentless, however, and skirmishes between the two groups intensified. In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, an agreement between the British Crown and Maori. It established British law in New Zealand, while at the same time guaranteeing Maori authority over their land and culture. The Treaty is considered New Zealand’s founding document. The grounds and the building where the treaty was signed have been preserved and, today, the Waitangi Historic Reserve is a popular tourist attraction. The original Treaty itself can be seen at the New Zealand Archives in Wellington. Amazing Maori historic sites and taonga (treasures) are a contrast to many beautiful colonial buildings. A walk around any New Zealand city today shows what a culturally diverse and fascinating country we have become.

New Zealand’s human history is relatively short: it was the last habitable land mass in the world to be discovered, by the ancestors of Māori, probably in the 13th century. Large-scale European settlement began in the 1840s, and the subsequent social, political and economic changes have moved New Zealand from British colonial outpost to multicultural Pacific nation. The Māori people are Polynesians. Recent research confirms that these first settlers probably arrived from Polynesia between 1200 and 1300 AD. They lived in tribal groups, gardening, catching birds and fish, and making tools, weapons and ornaments

The first Europeans

The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman was the first European to discover New Zealand, in 1642. The English navigator James Cook mapped the country in 1769–70. After this, sealers, whalers and traders arrived. Beginning in 1814, missionaries tried to convert Māori to Christianity, and taught them farming skills, reading and writing

1840s–1850s: A New British Colony

As more settlers arrived, the British government decided to take control of New Zealand. In 1840, Māori signed the Treaty of Waitangi with representatives of the British Queen, who sought sovereignty over the country. In return the Queen’s representatives promised Māori ownership of their land, and the rights of British citizens.

1860s–1880s: Dispute and Growth

Māori were pressured to sell their land for settlements. In the 1860s, war broke out, and land was confiscated or bought. New Zealand made money selling its wool and gold overseas. In the 1870s, the government helped thousands of British people start a new life in New Zealand. Railways were built and towns sprang up or expanded.

1890s–1945: Social Crises and War

In 1893 New Zealand became the first country to give women the vote, among other liberal reforms. In the First World War, it joined Britain in the fight against Germany. In the 1920s and 1930s many New Zealanders suffered hardship in a world-wide depression. They voted for a Labour government which passed laws aimed at giving everyone a decent standard of living. During the Second World War, New Zealand troops again served overseas.

The later 20th century

From the 1950s, New Zealand widened its outlook beyond Britain, which had been the main market for the country’s meat, wool, butter and cheese. It began to sell its goods to many different countries, and was increasingly influenced by the United States. At the same time, it kept its identity as an independent nation.

Changes for Māori

Many Māori moved to the cities after the Second World War. It was not until 1975 that their concerns about their treatment by the government began to be taken seriously. From about this time Māori began reviving their language and culture.

A more diverse nation

For a long time New Zealand wanted to remain ‘white’. But since the 1970s many more ethnic groups have been allowed to settle – from the Pacific Islands, Asia and every corner of the globe.

Auckland

Auckland, known as the 'City of Sails' for its many boating enthusiasts and weekend waters filled with yachts, has many great attractions the main one being the Hauraki Gulf where there are numerous islands and good deep-sea fishing waters. A number of the islands in Hauraki Gulf are used in efforts to re-establish rare or endangered species of birds and insects. There is an extensive range of shops and complexes, cafes and restaurants but you are never far away from the many beaches in Auckland.

Waitomo

Waitomo, which is situated beneath the rugged King Countryside, are weather-worn limestone outcrops in a vast and largely uncharted series of caves. Of the many caves in the area, three are supreme and together rank as one of the finest wonders in New Zealand. Waitomo Caves settlement evolved to serve the large numbers of visitors to the Glowworm Grotto with its myriad of tiny bright lights dotting the cave ceiling and Limestone formations of all shapes and sizes surround them.

Rotorua

Rotorua is at the heart of all Maori traditions where you can see concerts and Hangi. There are towering geysers, bubbling mud and silica terraces that draw many visitors to Rotorua often known as the Thermal Wonderland. Stroll through the streets of Rotorua, voted New Zealand's most beautiful city six times, and instantly feel like you have entered another world; where hot steam escapes from cracks in the road, back gardens come with their own natural mineral hot pool and the pungent aroma of sulphur exotically permeates the air.

Wellington

Wellington is the world's most southern capital and is renowned for its wind. The parliament buildings are situated here along with New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa. The inter-island ferries depart and arrive from Picton in the South Island. The city is home to many museums, theatres and arts festivals, including Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand), the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, and the biennial Festival of the Arts

Christchurch

Christchurch, often referred to as the 'garden city', is the largest of the South Island cities and is a major international gateway to the country. It has a very English nature and the Avon River twists through its heart of stone buildings. There is plenty to see and do in Christchurch. Christchurch is New Zealand's second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island. Bordered by hills and the Pacific Ocean, it is situated on the edge of the Canterbury Plains that stretch to the Southern Alps.

Queenstown

Queenstown nestles around a sheltered bay of Lake Wakatipu and is set in the magnificent Southern Lakes alpine region. It originally sprang to life as a raw mining town where gold was discovered in Arrowtown, it is now the adventure capital of the world and base for some of New Zealand's most popular walks and tramps. Nearby are the Remarkables and Coronet Peak ski fields. Queenstown was named because "it was fit for Queen Victoria". Certainly it's lived up to that expectation.

Fox Glacier

Nowhere in the world's temperate zones are glaciers as accessible as this famous pair that descend from crisp, clear snowfields into lush, temperate rainforest. Many tourists flock to the area annually to view this unique environment where there is an abundance of activities for all to indulge in. There are glow worm caves just a short walk from the town centre, which offers a good choice of cafes and restaurants. Close to Fox Glacier is beautiful Lake Matheson, one of the most photographed lakes in New Zealand.

People Of New Zealand

New Zealand has a population of around 3.65 million. People from a wide range of European countries have arrived since Captain James Cook to make up 75% of the population while Maori make up about 10%. The Maori first arrived on these shores just over a 1000 years ago at the close of the last millennium. Today, the Maori have adopted western lifestyles but have actively been encouraged to keep alive their culture, language and art. Other ethnic groups have arrived from Polynesia (Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands) with Auckland now being the Polynesia capital of the South Pacific. People from China, Taiwan, Korea, Vietnam, etc have also settled in New Zealand making for a diverse population mix. NZ people's respect all the religion and provide care in their nation.

Weather in New Zealand

The warmer high-season months (November to April) are ripe for outdoor exploration. Summer (December to February) is also when Kiwis crank up the food and wine festivals, concerts and sports events. December in the far north can be rainy, however. If you’re a snow bunny, visit when the powder is thickest – June to August is skiing high season. Remember, though, that in winter, warm-weather beach towns might be half asleep. If you want a real holiday, staying and eating in your venues of choice, avoid school holidays (particularly mid-December to early February) and public holidays. Most places are packed to the gills with campervans, tourists, highly strung parents and inexhaustible children in the post-Christmas weeks. The cooler, less touristed ‘shoulder’ periods (October/November and April/May) are a much better idea. New Zealand is smack-bang in the middle of the Roaring Forties – prevailing west-to-east winds buffet the country year-round, ranging from gentle breezes to tempestuous gales

On both islands it’s drier in the east than in the west, where mountain ranges snare moisture-laden winds from the Tasman Sea. It’s usually a few degrees cooler on the South Island than the North Island. Wherever you are, remember that NZ has a maritime climate – the weather changes rapidly. Anyone tramping at any time of year needs to be well prepared for all weather conditions. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has the information you need – available from DOC visitor centres nationwide.

Weather

New Zealand sits smack bang in the Roaring Forties, which means it gets ‘freshened’ by cool, damp winds blowing in from the Tasman Sea and is consistently slapped by the winds howling through Cook Strait. On the South Island, the Southern Alps act as a barrier for these moisture-laden easterlies, creating a wet climate on the western side of the mountains (around 7500mm of rain annually!), and a dry climate on the eastern side (about 330mm). After dumping their moisture, the winds continue east, gathering heat and speed as they blow downhill and cross the Canterbury Plains; in summer this katabatic or föhn wind can be hot and fierce. On the North Island, the western sides of the high volcanoes attract a lot more rain than eastern slopes, but the rain shadow isn’t as pronounced as in the south – the barrier here isn’t as formidable as the Alps. North Island rainfall averages around 1300mm annually.

Currency Of New Zealand

There is no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought in or taken out of New Zealand. However, every person who carries more than NZ$10,000 in cash in or out of New Zealand is required to complete a Border Cash Report. New Zealand Dollar (NZD/NZ$). Coins are 10c (Copper), 20c and 50c (silver), NZ$1 and NZ$2 (Gold). Notes are available in NZ$5, NZ$10, NZ$20, NZ$50 and NZ$100. NZ Dollar is a floating currency and will vary daily against the major currencies like - A$, C$, US$, GBP, Euro, etc. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, some hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports and most city centres. All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand, with Visa and MasterCard accepted most widely, followed by American Express and Diners Club

The New Zealand Dollar is the currency of New Zealand. It is normally written with the dollar sign $. It is divided into 100 cents. New Zealand has an advance, electronic based banking system. Banks are open 9:00am until 4:30pm Monday to Friday. Banks do not operate Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays. Major Credit/Debit Cards (American Express, Diners Club, Visa, Mastercard, JCB) are accepted throughout New Zealand. All Banks provide currency exchange facilities and in addition there are various Currency Exchange outlets operating (government regulated as to their operation) through out the country where you can change currency at the same international rate. All Banks offer a wide range of telephone and Internet banking services. If you are going to be in New Zealand for a while it may be convenient to open a New Zealand bank account and set up a local debit card, to avoid carrying a lot of cash around. New Zealanders are amongst the highest users of electronic banking services in the world. Automatic teller machines (ATMs), locally known as 'the hole in the wall', are available in just about every town, even those without a bank. Most shops have EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sale) terminals for debit and credit cards transactions, so most purchases can be made electronically. Credit cards are not accepted by some merchants with EFTPOS, especially smaller food retailers such as dairies, takeaways and cafes that do not serve alcohol.

Also smaller retailers may often set a minimum purchase of around NZ$10 when obtaining cash, if they agree to provide cash. New Zealand is introducing multiple currency EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sale) terminals especially in the major tourist centres in New Zealand. This means you can select the currency you want to make your transaction in and the conversion from NZ$ to your currency automatically. Multiple currency EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sale) terminals will be phased in through out New Zealand over the next 2-3 years.

Nightlife Of New Zealand

New Zealand is the major cities are full of cinemas, nightclubs, restaurants and bars. In the smaller towns there are plenty of boutiques, cinemas and a wide range of local pubs, all with their own individual charm. The Courtenay Quarter is a non-stop 24 hour experience. It's also where you will discover the New Zealand's Symphony Orchestra and the Royal New Zealand Ballet. The Cuba Quarter is home to Wellington's alternative scene. It's widely recognized as a spawning ground for many up and coming bands that are responsible for the distinctive Wellington sound. Ponsonby Road, just west of the city centre is home to a more alternative or arty scene. You will discover lively street side restaurants and packed bars all very close to each other. The atmosphere is very relaxed and friendly. The best nightlife cities in New Zealand are following:

Auckland

Now the Auckland has really upped its game and entirely new hot spots are popping up all over the central city. The Brittomart precint is home to some of the trendiest bars and restaurants. Set on the waterfront, numerous old warehouses and packing sheds have been converted into stunning spaces to enjoy your night out in. Just beside Brittomart is the Viaduct. Built for the America's Cup, bars and restaurants line the marina and compete for attention with the super yachts moored out front. A mix of casual eateries, fine dining, pubs and bars, there's something here for everyone late into the small hours.

Wellington

Wellington is well known for being the nightlife capital of New Zealand. It's packed full of bars, nightclubs and pubs that will suit every taste and budget. It has everything from cozy pubs serving Guinness to live jazz bars. Wellington’s after dark playground extends from swinging Courtenay Place to Willis Street, Lambton Quay and Queens Wharf. Scores of late-night cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs can be found within easy walking distance of central hotels and motels. The frenetic partying carries on well into the night, every night, but pulsates longer and louder from Thursday to Saturday.

Christchurch

Special mention needs to go to Christchurch after the series of devasting earthquakes that struck the city recently. But with the can do attitude of the locals and businesses, new cafes, bars and restaurants are literally popping up all around the city, often in unique locations such as converted shipping containers and old warehouses. While the majority of the central CBD is still off limits, it's the rediscovered city suburbs that are going off. Addington, Riccarton, Merivale and Fendalton are the spots to head for.

Queenstown

You will discovered a party there any day of the week. Kiwis and visitors alike flock to this stunning town to enjoy all of the adventure that's on offer, both day and night. With the highest concentration of bars and restaurants in New Zealand, you will be spoilt for choice. Be sure to check out the options down Searle Lane, then finish the night off with one of the famous Big Als from Fergburger.

Language Of New Zealand

English, Maori and New Zealand Sign Language are the official languages of New Zealand. English is universal, and is written with Commonwealth (British) spelling. New Zealand English is one of the major varieties of English and is different enough from other forms to justify the publication of the Oxford New Zealand English dictionary. Word usage may also differ occasionally, in potentially embarrassing ways for the traveller. Several words that Americans may consider offensive, or have euphemisms for, are considered acceptable usage. For example: A New Zealand bathroom refers to a room containing a bath while the other facilities that an American might refer to as a bathroom or washroom are known as a toilet. The American habit of "bleeping" swear words from broadcasts is considered quaint and rarely done in local programming. The New Zealand broadcasting media are unusually tolerant of swear words when used in context.

The New Zealand accent is somewhat nasalised with flattened vowel sounds and vowel shifting. New Zealanders consider their accent to be markedly different from the Australian one and are often mildly offended when mistaken for or confused with Australians. New Zealand terminology and slang are also different from Australian usage. Americans find New Zealand accents easy to understand, so do Australians and British. Some European dialects find it slightly harder and Asians may find it rather hard to understand; New Zealanders are quite happy however to repeat what they just said if necessary. Offensive language in a public place is not too smart and you could end up staying with the local police. The police dress in blue and wear blue/white chequered caps - most generally looking quite cool.