New Zealand

. Country Name

• Official name: New Zealand (New Zealand in English, Aotearoa (in Maori).
• Short name: New Zealand.

2. Geography

• Geographic location: New Zealand is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, approximately 2.000 km southeast of Australia. It comprises two main islands (the North Island and the South Island) and numerous smaller islands, including Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands.
• In total area: The total area of ​​New Zealand is approximately 268.000 km².
• Description of the landscapeNew Zealand's geography is extremely varied, with mountains (including the mighty Mount Cook), active volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes and rugged coastlines. The climate varies from temperate in the north to subantarctic in the south. Mountains form the backbone of the islands, while coastal plains and river valleys are important for agriculture.

3. Population

• Number of inhabitants: The population of New Zealand is approximately 5 million (2023 estimate).
• Population growth ratePopulation growth is moderate, with an annual growth rate of 1-2%.
• Major cities and population distribution: The main cities are Auckland, Wellington (the capital) and ChristchurchThe population is unevenly distributed, with a high concentration in urban areas, especially in the North Island, while rural areas are more populated in the South Island.

4. Capital and main cities

• Capital: Wellington, located at the southern tip of the North Island. It is also the political and cultural centre of the country.
• Main cities: Auckland, the largest city and an economic center of international importance. Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, is a major commercial and transport hub.

5. economy

• Nominal GDP and GDP per capitaNew Zealand's nominal GDP is around $240 billion, with a GDP per capita of around $48.000.
• Main economic sectors: New Zealand's economy is heavily dependent on agriculture (particularly dairy, meat and fruit) and exports, as well as tourism and growing technology sectors. Wool production and the wine sector are also of considerable importance.
• GDP growth rate and inflation: New Zealand has a moderate GDP growth rate, with good economic stability. Inflation is generally under control, although sometimes influenced by changes in consumer prices.
• Unemployment rate and trade balance: The unemployment rate is relatively low, but the trade balance is in deficit due to the import of goods and services. However, exports of agricultural and tourism products partially compensate for this deficit.
• Public debtPublic debt is managed prudently, with a relatively low level compared to other developed countries.
• Main exports and imports: Major exports include dairy products, meat, fruit (especially kiwi and apples) and wine. Major imports include machinery, vehicles and petroleum.

6. Political system and government

• Type of government: New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. Queen Elizabeth II (until her recent death, now King Charles III) is the head of state, but executive power is held by the Cabinet.
• Description of the political structure: The head of the government is the Prime Minister, which is elected by the Parliament. The political system is democratic, with elections held every three years. The unicameral Parliament is composed of the House of Representatives.
• Major political parties and electoral organization: Major political parties include the New Zealand National Party, New Zealand Labour Party and Green Party. Elections are based on a mixed system of proportional representation.

7. History and culture

• Brief historical overviewNew Zealand was discovered in 1642 by the Dutch navigator Abel Tasman, but was colonised by Great Britain from 1840 with the Treaty of Waitangi, which established an agreement between the Māori and the British Crown. New Zealand became independent from the United Kingdom in 1947.
• Cultural and linguistic traditions: Māori culture is an integral part of New Zealand and the Māori is one of the official languages, along with English. Māori traditions, such as haka (ritual dances) and the whānau (extended family concept), are highly respected and celebrate the connection to the earth.
• Cultural heritage: New Zealand has a rich cultural heritage including Māori historic sites such as the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Numerous cultural festivals are held annually, celebrating Māori and European traditions.

8. Innovation and development

• Position in the Global Innovation Index: New Zealand generally ranks highly in the global innovation index due to its commitment to research and adoption of sustainable technologies.
• R&D expenditureSpending on research and development is moderate, but there is strong investment in agricultural innovation, biotechnology and renewable energy.
• Advanced technological sectors and main innovations of the country: New Zealand is a leader in advanced agricultural technologies, such as precision farming and biological waste treatment. It is also a pioneer in renewable energy, particularly hydroelectric and geothermal power.

9. Education and health

• Literacy rate: The literacy rate is close to 100%.
• Structure of the education system: The education system is free and compulsory from ages 6 to 16. Universities, such as the University of Auckland and the University of Otago, are well ranked globally.
• Quality and accessibility of the health system: New Zealand has a high-quality public health system, but services are also supplemented with private options. Access to health care is universal and free for residents.
• Life expectancyLife expectancy in New Zealand is among the highest in the world, at around 82 years.

10. International rankings

• Position in the Human Development Index (HDI): New Zealand ranks very well on the HDI, with a high score due to its high quality of life, health and education.
• Position in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI)New Zealand is one of the countries with the highest scores in the CPI, indicative of a low level of corruption.
• Position in global economic indices: New Zealand is a competitive country with an excellent business environment, a position it maintains thanks to its economic stability and low bureaucracy.

11. Environmental policies

• The country's efforts in terms of sustainability: New Zealand is a leader in environmental sustainability, with policies to protect its unique ecosystems and embrace renewable energy.
• Environmental policies and international commitmentsIt is a party to several international climate agreements, including the Paris Agreement, and has a strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

12. Curiosities and peculiarities

• Interesting facts: New Zealand is famous for its unspoiled nature and for being the home of the Lord of the Rings, with much of the film's shots captured in its breathtaking landscape.
• Important events: The Music Festival and Maori Festivals they are cultural events of great importance.
• Gastronomic specialities: Among the gastronomic specialities, the most notable is the hangi, a traditional dish prepared by cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven. The pavlova, a meringue-based cake, is considered a typical dessert dish.