New Zealand's Isolation
Located over 1,000 kilometers southeast of Australia, New Zealand's remote position profoundly shaped its unique biodiversity. It was one of the last major landmasses settled by humans.
Māori Cultural Heritage
The Māori were New Zealand's first inhabitants, arriving in the 13th century. Their rich culture is renowned for its powerful traditional dance, the Haka, and its intricate carvings and mythology.
Extinct Moa and Haast's Eagle
Before human arrival, New Zealand was home to the giant moa, a flightless bird, and the Haast's eagle, the largest eagle known to have existed, which preyed upon the moa.
World's Steepest Street
Dunedin's Baldwin Street held the Guinness World Record for the steepest residential street in the world until 2019, with a maximum slope of 35% gradient.
First Country to Vote
In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to grant all women the right to vote, thanks to the suffragette movement led by Kate Sheppard.
No Native Snakes
Surprisingly, New Zealand has no native snake species. Its strict biosecurity laws aim to keep it that way to protect its diverse native wildlife.
Southern Lights Spectacle
The Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, can be seen from New Zealand, offering a stunning natural light display in the southern skies, especially in the Otago region.
Flightless Parrot
New Zealand's Kakapo is the world's only flightless nocturnal parrot, known for its owl-like face and critically endangered status.