{"id":4,"country_list_id":"157","about":"New Zealand (or Aotearoa – land of the long white cloud), truly is one of the most picturesque and photogenic places on earth. A small island nation of just over 4.5 million people, New Zealand is made up of two major land masses (North Island and South Island) and a number of smaller islands including Stewart Island located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The two main islands are divided by a 22km stretch of water called the Cook Strait.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
New Zealand is located approximately 1,500km east of Australia and about 1,000km from the Pacific Islands. Due to its relative remoteness and being water locked, New Zealand was one of the last countries to be found and settled.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The country is made up of some of the worlds most spectacular landscapes, from vast mountain ranges, steaming volcanoes to sweeping coastlines. It is a natural playground for thrill seekers and adventurers and those who simply want to visit for the culture and landscapes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Governance<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nNew Zealand is a constitutional monarchy under England and while the Queen is the head of state, New Zealand effectively governs itself through its parliamentary system with a Prime Minister. The public votes every three years which often sees a change in government. The two main political parties are the National Party and the Labour Party. New Zealand was the first country in the world to give women the vote in 1893.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The flag of New Zealand has been in its current form since 1902 and because of New Zealand's British ties, is the British Blue Ensign with four stars representing the Southern Cross. The Southern Cross are the four brightest stars in the sky over New Zealand. In recent years, a change of flag has been debated with the popular black flag with a silver fern being one of the more popular choices. This unofficial New Zealand flag is often seen when Kiwis are on the world stage in sporting events.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Early History<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nEarly New Zealand history suggests the islands were first settled by eastern Polynesians between 1250-1300. Over the years since, these settlers developed their own distinct culture called 'Maori'.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The first European thought to have landed on New Zealand shores was a Dutch explorer called Abel Tasman in 1642. It was a hostile encounter between his crew and local Maori. The Europeans didn't come back until 1769 when British explorer James Cook mapped the entire New Zealand coastline. During the early 19th century, conflict between Maori and the British was quite frequent.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed making New Zealand a colony. This resulted in many more immigrants making New Zealand their home but also contributed to more conflict resulting in the New Zealand Wars. These wars lasted from 1845 to 1872 and were primarily around land ownership and the settlers who occupied the disputed land. Today historical disputes continue however are fought in the courtroom and by negotiation.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Population<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nWhile the land masses of the North Island and South Island are similar, approximately two thirds of the population lives in the North Island and the remainder in the South Island. The majority of New Zealand's population is of European decent while Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is the most ethnically diverse in the country and has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. Auckland has about one third of the population (over 1.3 million), followed by the capital city of Wellington and the South Island city of Christchurch (each has approx 400,000). In 15th place is Gisborne, with a population of around 35,000.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Map of New Zealand<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nNew Zealander's are affectionately known as "Kiwis". The name derives from the kiwi, a flightless bird native to New Zealand. It is also the national symbol. Kiwi's are characterised as rugged, industrious problem solvers and people who innovate. Kiwi's are great travellers themselves with many exploring and making an impact on the world (sport, business, politics, etc). Younger New Zealander's often travel to England for working holidays before settling back in New Zealand and any New Zealander can travel and work in Australia indefinitely.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
English is the predominant language in New Zealand. After WWII, Maori were discouraged from speaking their own language in schools and workplaces so it really only existed as a community language. Nowadays it has undergone a revitalisation and is declared one of New Zealand's official languages with immersion in schools and tertiary sectors. Many places throughout the country have dual English and Maori names.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Economy<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nNew Zealand's free trade economy is dependant on International trade, with the principal export industries being agriculture, horticulture, fishing, forestry and mining. The major export partners are New Zealand's trans-tasman neighbours, Australia, as well as the USA, United Kingdom and Japan. China and Asian markets are increasingly export destinations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Tourism also contributes significantly and attracts travelers from every country with Australian's being the travellers who visit the most. View videos of popular New Zealand destinations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Climate and Weather<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nDolphins<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The climate varies between the North and South Islands and is quite complex.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The general climate is mild and temperate however areas in the far north experience warm subtropical temperatures while the far south is much cooler. Alpine conditions ensue in mountainous areas.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In the South Island, a North West wind – known as a Nor'Wester – can see heavy rainfall on the West Coast and a hot dry wind in Canterbury on the East Coast less than four hours drive away.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Visitors are advised to come prepared for all types of weather, as the temperature can change quite rapidly during the day.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Flora and Fauna<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nYou will find a very unique range of flora and fauna in New Zealand. The native animal, bird and plant species are among some of the most beautiful in the world.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
There are many national parks, native forests, walking tracks and maritime reserves to be enjoyed. In addition to these, there are a number of glaciers, lakes, mountains, beaches and thermal reserves, also on offer for tourists and travellers alike.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
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Achievements and Famous Kiwi's<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nFor a small nation, New Zealand has dominated the playing field in many areas. The major sporting code is Rugby Union (more commonly known as Rugby). Other codes include netball, cricket, soccer and rugby league.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
New Zealand has also achieved highly in track and field, rowing, yachting and cycling. Mountaineering also features with Sir Edmund Hillary conquering Mt Everest in 1953.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Not only is New Zealand up there with their sporting prowess, but Kiwi's are also responsible for some of the most famous inventions of all time. Adventure sport pioneer AJ Hackett introduced the Bungy Jump to the world in 1986 and Sir William Hamilton pioneered the Hamilton jet in 1954. The waterjet is the most advanced and innovative marine propulsion system in use today. Other credits include the referee's whistle, the eggbeater, electric fence, disposable syringe and the national dessert – the Pavlova, a fluffy meringue of goodness.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Other famous New Zealander's include Lord Rutherford who managed to split the atom. Sir Peter Jackson is a New Zealander most famous for his direction of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Burt Munro broke several world land speed records in the 1960's, one of which still stands today. These iconic New Zealanders are just a handful among many more putting this beautiful country on the map every day.<\/p>","accomodation":"
New Zealand accommodation options are diverse, with something for every level of comfort and budget.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
From quality luxury lodges to back-to-nature camping, the selection of accommodation in New Zealand is varied and plentiful.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
You’ll find 5 star boutique and lodge accommodation, hotels and motels in most city centres and towns. In some of our more scenic and secluded locations, these are complemented by campsites, motorhomes and holiday homes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
For a real Kiwi experience, stay in a holiday house ('bach' in local slang), or enjoy the hospitality of farmstay or homestay hosts. Providers with the Qualmark symbol have undergone rigorous assessment to earn their stars - something to bear in mind when researching your New Zealand accommodation options.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Many commercial accommodations provide rooms that suit people with limited mobility. For centralised information highlighting the accessible facilities provided at accommodation establishments throughout New Zealand visit the AA Travel Accessible Accomodation page or Oyster Accessible Travel New Zealand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- Luxury Lodge<\/li>\r\n\t
- Bed and Breakfast<\/li>\r\n\t
- Motels<\/li>\r\n\t
- Hotels<\/li>\r\n\t
- Backpacker & Hostels<\/li>\r\n\t
- Apartments<\/li>\r\n\t
- Holiday Parks & Campgrounds<\/li>\r\n\t
- Boutique & Lodge<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>","living_cost":null,"study":"
New Zealand schools, universities and institutes are known worldwide for their high standards. You’ll find our qualifications are internationally recognised and welcomed by employers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It all means that - along with the people you will meet, the places you will see and the things you will do in New Zealand - you can be confident you will get an education that will set you up for the future you dream of.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
International comparisons confirm you can have confidence in the quality of New Zealand’s tertiary education. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
All eight of New Zealand Universities are among the world’s top 500 in the 2015\/16 QS rankings. On individual subjects, the 2015\/16 QS rankings also placed New Zealand universities amongst the world’s top 50 for teaching accounting and finance, business and management, computer science, civil and structural engineering, agriculture and forestry, veterinary science and nine other important disciplines.<\/p>","transport":"
Transport<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nMost people in New Zealand find driving easier and more convenient for much of their getting around.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
In rural areas, it’s often the only option. So, although public transport is available in the larger centres, you’ll almost certainly need a vehicle here - probably sooner rather than later.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Public Transport<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nAll New Zealand cities and most towns have buses, and Auckland and Wellington both have city-suburban rail services. Check out the Regions section for more detail.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
You’ll see that peak hour services are generally good. But New Zealand is a land of wide open spaces and low population density. They make it impractical to provide the extensive public transport systems you find in more built-up and crowded cities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
That’s why so many of us find a car essential. Some Kiwis would also say we like driving because it reflects our independent streak.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Getting a car<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nOrganising transport may be a priority, but don’t pick up a car the moment you land.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Driving when you’re tired can be dangerous, even fatal, especially if you’re not used to driving on the left as we do in New Zealand. Take the shuttle, bus or cab from the airport when you first arrive.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- Renting a car<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n
Buying will cost you less but while you’re starting out, it could be smart to rent at first.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
There’s a good list of the car rental companies in New Zealand on Auckland Airport’s website. Most of them have depots in town where you can pick up your car after a good night’s rest.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Alternatively, check the website of the airport you’re arriving at, or search the internet for ‘New Zealand rental cars’.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- Buying a car<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n
There are several ways. You can:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Buy privately, dealing direct with advertisers in car sale magazines or on websites like Trade Me Motors.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Buy from a second-hand car dealer. In New Zealand they’re called ‘LMVDs’ (Licensed Motor Vehicle Dealers).<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Larger centres also have car fairs and auctions that are advertised in car magazines and newspapers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Any car you buy:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Must have a WoF (Warrant of Fitness, the Government’s safety check). You can, and should, insist on the WoF being less than one month old. Alternatively a vehicle may be sold ‘as is, where is’. That means its WoF is more than a month old and any risk of not getting a new one is your problem.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Should be currently registered with the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA). Look for the expiry date on the white licensing sticker in the left of the windscreen. No matter how long the registration has to run, once you buy, you must re-register the vehicle in your name.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Before you start your search for a car, check out NZTA’s advice on what to look out for in terms of safety and mechanical condition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- Insurance<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n
Vehicle insurance is not compulsory in New Zealand.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However ‘third party insurance’, which insures you against having to personally pay the cost of damage to someone else’s vehicle, is recommended as a minimum.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Find out more about your vehicle insurance options from the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ).<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- Driving in New Zealand<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n
Getting started with driving can be easier if you bring an international driver’s licence with you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
New Zealand roads are generally good, though some of our long distance ‘state highways’ are only two lanes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Traffic volumes are light by international standards, although cities can get very busy in rush hours. Motorways in and out of Auckland and some of the other main centres can get severely congested at these times.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
You must have a current driver’s licence to drive in New Zealand. Find out about licence requirements from the New Zealand Transport Agency.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The NZTA has produced a must-read booklet about driving in New Zealand. It explains everything you need to know about staying safe and obeying New Zealand’s driving laws.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Translations are available in Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Samoan, Tongan, Tuvaluan, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Thai and Arabic.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Remember, keep to the left of the road when you’re driving a car in New Zealand. When you’re parking a car, make sure it’s facing the direction of the traffic and don’t park over a driveway, even your own.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Full New Zealand driving rules are in the New Zealand Road Code.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Flying<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nFlying is popular for longer trips, for both personal and business travel.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It’s only an hour to fly between Auckland and Wellington, compared to eight or so hours driving. The Wellington-Christchurch flight is about 50 minutes, compared to a five or six hour driving plus a three hour ferry trip. Of course, if you have time and want to see New Zealand, you may prefer the drive.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
There are two main domestic carriers, Air New Zealand and Jetstar, plus a small number of regional operators. Check out the timetables and fares.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rail, bus, ferries<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\nIntercity rail travel in New Zealand is largely limited to services between Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Greymouth. However there are extensive bus services that can take you to just about anywhere you want to go.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Buses link with the ferries that also take cars and passengers regularly between our North and South Islands.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
RailBus New Zealand<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\r\n\t- InterCity<\/li>\r\n\t
- NakedBus<\/li>\r\n\t
- Bluebridge<\/li>\r\n\t
- Interislander<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n
<\/p>","advantages":"
\r\n\t- Close to Indonesia<\/li>\r\n\t
- Stable climate and democracy<\/li>\r\n\t
- Low unemployment and crimes rate<\/li>\r\n\t
- Part-time work for students for 20 hours per week when study in session and unlimited when vacation.<\/li>\r\n\t
- Paid internship programs available<\/li>\r\n\t
- Post-study work visa and permanent residency<\/li>\r\n\t
- Allow to bring partner and children for Master Degree or above<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","migration_info":"
For all of the visa assistance, please click the button below.<\/strong><\/p>","hero_image":null,"deleted_at":null,"created_at":"2017-04-29 19:15:06","updated_at":"2017-05-26 19:35:20","country_detail":{"id":157,"shortname":"NZ","name":"New Zealand","phonecode":"64","created_at":null,"updated_at":null}}