New Zealand is an island country in Oceania located in the Pacific Ocean about 2,000 km southeast of Australia. It is bordered by Tasmania and Micronesia. The capital of New Zealand is Wellington, while the largest city is Auckland. New Zealand is a sovereign constitutional monarchy, formed by Britain's Queen Elizabeth II as head of state. Its political system is a representative parliamentary monarchy. Learn about the history of this country - choose thematic printable coloring pages.
New Zealand history and trivia
New Zealand, also called Aotearoa by its urban people, is a country formed from the merger of two islands - the North Island and the South Island. The country was inhabited by the Maori tribe for more than 1,000 years until the arrival of Europeans in the 1800s. Europeans arrived there to exploit natural resources and agriculture. However, the state of New Zealand was not established until the 1830s, under British protectorate. In 1947, New Zealand was granted independence and became a sovereign constitutional monarchy.
Trivia
- New Zealand has more sheep than people.
- It is one of the most privileged countries in the world in terms of quality of life.
- This is bat country. It is the only place in the world where two cave-dwelling bat species live.
- It is known for its beautiful forests, mountains and rivers. It is considered one of the most picturesque countries in the world.
- It is host to many unique plant and animal species, including Kauri turtles, kiwis, tuatara and dolphins.
- New Zealand is one of the most modern countries in the world. It is at the forefront in many areas, including education, technology, health and the environment.
- Considered one of the most foreigner-friendly and multicultural countries in the world.
- It has some of the most beautiful views in the world, from beautiful mountains to scenic beaches.
- It is one of the few countries where people can taste alcoholic beverage directly from the river.
- It is home to unique bird species such as kiwi, tui, kea and cuckoo owl.
