 |
| New Zealand Information |
|
| Imagine a country the same size as the UK but with just over 4 million people. Imagine a landscape with unparalleled diversity that includes uncrowded beaches, snow peaked mountains, lush forests and spectacular lakes. New Zealand has all this as well as being one of the safest, politically stable, progressive countries in the world. |
|
| History New Zealand’s name suggests it hasn’t been around for all that long. In terms of human habitation that’s certainly true – Maori first arrived about a thousand years ago and the first Europeans came just over 230 years ago. Gold miners, missionaries, forestry workers and settlers mostly from Europe increased the population and accelerated the necessity for a formalisation in the relationship with Maori. The Treaty of Waitangi signed in 1840 is seen by many as the country’s founding document. |
|
| Geography The country is made up of two main islands, conveniently named the North Island and South Island, as well as numerous smaller islands including Stewart Island. Three quarters of the population live in the North Island. Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’ where countries from around the world competed for the America’s Cup, is the fastest growing region and houses about a third of the country’s population. The North Island is also home to the capital, Wellington, with its cosmopolitan feel and gateway to the South Island. |
|
| The South Island has the stunning beauty of Milford Sound, glaciers and imposing mountain ranges. The Lord of the Rings series showcased some of this remarkable landscape to the world. This is not to say there are no cities. The South Island includes the adventure capital Queenstown, ideal if you want to bungy jump or go jet boating, sunny Nelson with one of the best climates in the country, and picturesque Christchurch the garden city. |
|
Immigration As English is one of the country’s official languages (Maori being the other), many immigrants from the UK, North America and Canada have an easier time in adjusting than those moving to Spain, France or Italy. The immigration requirements need careful study. NZ Property Finders are not immigration consultants, although we can provide you with general advice. We also recommend that you visit www.immigration.govt.nz to help plan your move. If you would like to discuss your requirements with an immigration consultant contact the emigration group, www.emigration.uk.com |
|
| Economy New Zealand’s economy is strong with unemployment being below the 5% mark, little bureaucratic interference, low inflation and low taxation. The country has a high proportion of entrepreneurs and is used to embracing new technology a lot faster than most countries. New Zealand’s traditional dairy farming base is supported by industries such as forestry, education, manufacturing, film and television, telecommunications and tourism. |
|
| Politics Politically, New Zealand has also encouraged innovation whilst remaining fundamentally stable and corruption free. As well as being the first country to give women the vote, New Zealand has been at the forefront of introducing workers’ protection, pensions and a welfare state. The country emerged from rapid economic and political changes in the late 80’s and early 90’s, a more efficient country with an electoral system that encourages a more consensual approach to governing. |
|
| Sport Sport is an important part of New Zealand which has a very outdoors lifestyle. Rugby with the All Blacks is a national obsession but there is still room for sailing, golf, cricket, netball and numerous other sports. |
|
| Education All children in New Zealand are entitled to free schooling until the age of 19, although attendance is only compulsory until 16. There is a wide choice of pre-school options including kindergartens, childcare centres, playcentres and kohanga reo (total immersion in Maori language). Parents and care givers usually choose to enrol their children at the closest school they have the right to choose any state (government-funded) school. Parents play a key role in the education system and are represented on school boards. Tertiary education is of a high standard and includes universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, wananga (Maori tertiary institutions) and private training establishments. |
|
Reports
|