New Zealand Facts for Kids
New Zealand is a country that is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and friendly and welcoming locals. Here are some interesting facts about New Zealand that you may not have known:
1. New Zealand is home to only one species of native mammals – the bat. All other animals, including kiwis, were either introduced by humans or evolved from birds.
2. Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is the southernmost capital city in the world.
3. New Zealand has a population of around 5 million people, and there are more sheep in the country than humans.
4. The All Blacks, New Zealand’s national rugby team, has a winning record of over 77% in international games.
5. New Zealanders refer to themselves as ‘Kiwis’ after their national bird, the kiwi. The bird is also seen as a national symbol and is featured on the country’s coinage.
6. The country is known for its outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and bungee jumping. The world’s first commercial bungee jump was opened in New Zealand in 1988.
7. New Zealand was one of the first countries to grant women the right to vote in 1893.
8. The country has a diverse and multicultural population, with significant populations of Maori, Polynesian, and Asian descent.
9. The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies were filmed entirely in New Zealand, and the country’s stunning landscapes were used to depict Middle-earth.
10. New Zealand was the first country in the world to see the sunrise. In fact, the Chatham Islands, located east of the mainland, and the “Tairawhiti Gisborne” area are the first to see the sun each day.