Embark on a journey through the wonders of Aotearoa, where stunning landscapes and vibrant culture await. In this article, we uncover nine intriguing facts about New Zealand, showcasing its iconic destinations such as the breathtaking Milford Sound and Hobbiton Movie Set. Whether you’re drawn to its rich Maori heritage, pristine national parks, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, New Zealand promises an unforgettable experience.
1. The kiwi isn’t just a fruit
That’s right, the kiwi isn’t just a fruit or a term for New Zealanders—it’s also a fluffy, adorable bird and a national symbol! These nocturnal creatures are precious and protected, with only 5% surviving in the wild from hatching to adulthood. The National Kiwi Hatchery plays a crucial role in their conservation, boasting world-leading expertise in egg incubation, hatching techniques, and chick rearing. For anyone curious about these unique birds and passionate about conservation, visiting the hatchery is an absolute must!
2. It is home to the longest place name in the world
Taumatawhakatangihangakoauauotamateaturipukakapikimaungahoronukupokaiwhenuakitanatahu.
Wow, that’s a mouthful! This is the name of a hill on the east coast of New Zealand and translates to ‘the place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who slid, climbed and swallowed mountains, known as ‘landeater played his flute to his loved one.” Locals simply call it Taumata Hill.
3. The last country in the world to be discovered by humans
Polynesians first inhabited New Zealand more than 1000 years ago, making New Zealand the last major habitable land mass discovered on Earth.
4. Cloud formations helped early Polynesian navigators find the country
‘Aeoteroa’, or ‘The Land of the Long White Cloud’, was the name given to New Zealand when Maori navigators first saw signs of the new land in the formations of drawn-out strands of cloud spreading across the horizon.
5. There are more sheep than people!
In its peak sheep days, New Zealand had 22 sheep for every person – now, for the first time since national population records began in the late 1850s, it has dropped below the 5:1 ratio. With international wool markets in decline, and forestry emerging as a more lucrative use of the land, sheep numbers in New Zealand have been dropping.
6. Home to the most southern capital of the world
Visit Wellington, and you’ll be standing in the southernmost capital in the world!
7. One-third of New Zealand is made up of national reserves
For nature lovers, explore stunning scenery and spectacular natural wonders across 13 National Parks in New Zealand, totalling over 30,000 square kilometres of natural paradise. From Milford Sound to Lake Tekapo, you’ll be spoilt for choice!
8. The houses and tree at Hobbiton movie set are fake
Hobbiton has 44 hobbit holes, but they’re all just facades! Only two of them are accessible for tourists to explore. The iconic tree above Bag End is crafted from fibreglass and adorned with silk leaves imported from Taiwan to enhance its realism. Each leaf was painstakingly wired onto the tree. Interestingly, all the fruits and vegetables currently growing in Hobbiton are real! A dedicated team of eight gardeners meticulously tend to the seasonal produce, ensuring the authenticity of this magical setting.
9. Hobbit coins as legal tender
In the lead-up to ‘The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey’ release date in 2013, New Zealand created commemorative coins with pictures of Hobbits and words in both English and Elvish. At the time of release, they were said to be worth a lot more than their face value around $3000.
If this article has made you want to pack your bags and book a trip to New Zealand for you and your students, explore our New Zealand tours or contact us today to start planning!
