New Zealand (Māori: Aotearoa) is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia. It comprises two main landmasses, the North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui) and the South Island (Te Waipounamu), and over 600 smaller islands. Wellington is the capital, while Auckland is the most populous city. The country is known for its stunning and diverse natural beauty, including the Southern Alps, active volcanoes, caves, glaciers, fjords, and long coastlines. A third of the country is a protected national reserve.
New Zealand's culture is mainly derived from Māori and early British settlers, but has recently broadened from increased immigration. English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language are the official languages. New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. Lately, New Zealand will begin importing LNG from 2027, as the government races to prevent future energy shortages after years of declining domestic output. In February 2026, Standards New Zealand was invited by Standards Australia to take a seat at the table, which will make it easier for businesses operating on both sides of the Tasman.
