Across Cultures - New Zealand

World Map

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Made by Bartosz Szczygieł, Class 8A , Primary School no. 11 in Glogow

Across Cultures- New Zealand

Short History

The tribe that originally inhabited New Zealand was the Maori tribe. They swam to New Zealand from other Oceania islands. The first european to discover New Zealand was Abel Tasman, who in 1642 arrived at the island's coast. During the landing, ship's crew was attacked by the natives. After the accident Tasman decided to leave the island. New Zealand remained uncolonized until 1769 when James Cook discovered its islands again. British colonists who were mainly bandits, outlaws, murderers and rapists had started a conflict with Maoris which lasted until February 6 1840 when most of the tribes' leaders signed a peace pact with the british representants. 'Waitangi Day' as it is called is considered as the creation of the New Zealand country. From then, Waitangi Day is a national holiday in New Zealand. Despite the pact, Maoris and New Zealand's colonists had two another wars in the second half of the XIX century, both won by the colonists. After 100 years New Zealand managed to autonomize form Britain and become a sovereign country.

Culture

New Zealand's culture isn't very developed. The main reason is the young age of the country. New Zealanders, who are also called 'Kiwis' are modern and friendly people. They are used to seeing many tourists. The most famous New Zealanders are Neil Finn who is the leader of the rock band 'Crowded House' and a writer Janet Frame. New Zealand is also the home of many Hollywood stars like actor Russel Crowe or director Taika Waititi. Peter Jackson is another famous director. His most recognizable movie trilogy, 'The Lord of the Rings' was filmed in New Zealand.

Geography

Most of New Zealand's teritories(268 thousand km²) are mainly made up two biggest islands: North island(115 thousand km²) and South island(150 thousand km²). The other big islands are: Stewart island, Auckland island, Chatham island, Kermadec island and Antipodes islands.

New Zealand has volcanos like Tongariro and Egmont. You can also find here the biggest hot spring- Lake Frying Pan. Wellington is the capital and Auckland is the biggest city.

Wildlife

80% of vegetation in New Zealand are endemic species. Well-known plants are kiwi, tree tomatoe, Taraire tree and Kowhai.

Fauna is very diverse. New Zealand is inhabited by 2 bats species, about 30 reptile species like endemic hatteria, kakapo and kea parrot, flightless bird takahe and kiwi bird. Bats are the only naturally living mammal on the islands.

Interesting facts

• New Zealand is the first country ever to let women vote in parlamental election in 1893
• There's 12 times more sheep than people in New Zealand
• National anthem of New Zealand is written in Maori
• There are two billionares in New Zealand
• New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road
• Age of majority here is 20
• 3 people from New Zealand recived a Nobel Prize

Thanks!