New Zealand

Natural Environments  New Zealand is located in the south pacific.  New Zealand is made up of two major islands. The North Island The North Island The South Island. (separated by Cook Strait) The South Island. (separated by Cook Strait)

North Island  Contains forests and fertile lowlands.  Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire.  Active volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs.  Rugged hills and small coastal lowlands.

The South Island  Larger and higher than other island.  Canterbury Plains  Southern Alps (west coast) Mt. Cook Mt. Cook Highest elevation in New Zealand at 12,349 ftHighest elevation in New Zealand at 12,349 ft

Climates and Biomes  All of New Zealand has a mild marine west coast climate.  North Island is warmer than the South Island.  Southern Island receives much more precipitation. (winds hit Alps they drop snow and rain)  Most of New Zealand has a temperate forest biome.

More…..  The Forests are mostly evergreen trees.  There are many endemic species. Flightless birds (kiwis) Flightless birds (kiwis) Sleep during the day and look for food at night.Sleep during the day and look for food at night. Bats are the only endemic mammals on New Zealand. Exotic Animals are numerous in New Zealand. Cats, cattle, deer and sheep are some of them.

The Tuatara  Found only on a few islands in New Zealand  Last living member of an ancient species related to dinosaurs.  They appeared on the earth over 200 millions years ago.  Can live up to 100 years old.  Contrary to public believe the Tuatara are not lizards.

Natural Resources  Hydroelectric power supplies 65% of the countries electricity. Geothermal power is also produced. Geothermal power is also produced.  Main resource is good land for farming. 50% of the land supports crops or livestock. 50% of the land supports crops or livestock.

Early history and settlement.  Maori: the first people in New Zealand. (1,000 years ago) Came from Pacific Islands Came from Pacific Islands The hunted Moa The hunted MoaMoa The Maori settled on the The Maori settled on the North island. Culture was based on: FarmingFishingHunting

First Europeans….  In 1769 British explorer James Cook made contact with the Maori.  In 1840 a treaty was signed that gave British control of the Islands….in exchange the British promised to protect the Maori people. Problems….disease, fighting, and killing. (Maori Wars) Problems….disease, fighting, and killing. (Maori Wars) In 1907 New Zealand became an independent country within the British Empire. In 1907 New Zealand became an independent country within the British Empire.

People and Languages  Most New Zealanders have British ancestry and speak English.  Asian and Pacific Islanders are minorities.  The largest minority in New Zealand is the Maori. They make up 10% of the population.

Settlement  75% of the people live on the North Island  80% live in the cities.  New Zealand’s main city is Auckland. (30% of population live in or around here)  Wellington is capital of New Zealand.

Traditions, customs, and food  Outdoor activities are popular. (camping, hiking, and sailing)  Skiing, rugby, and cricket are very popular.  New Zealand also competes in National Yachting races.  Favorite foods: clam soup, lamb, and sweet potatoes. Tea is very popular.

Economy and Issues  Farming, manufacturing, and tourism make up the country’s economy.  World’s largest producer of kiwi fruit.  New Zealand is small….less people makes it hard to expand it’s economy.  Trade mostly with Unites States, Australia, and Japan.

Good Bye!