New Zealand, the land of kiwis, hobbits, and breathtaking landscapes, boasts a fascinating history and culture. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, here are 10 surprising facts that might make you want to book your next trip there:
1. Champion of Women’s Rights
New Zealand wasn’t just the first country to grant women the right to vote in 1893, it also holds the record for having all three top government positions held by women simultaneously in 1999 – Prime Minister, Governor-General, and Speaker of the House. .
2. More Sheep Than People
New Zealand’s sheep population is legendary, with roughly six sheep for every single person in the country! This amounts to around 30 million sheep, making it a global leader in wool production.
3. The Land of Middle Earth
JRR Tolkien’s epic fantasy, The Lord of the Rings, found its cinematic home in New Zealand’s stunning South Island. Movie locations like Hobbiton and Mordor are now popular tourist destinations, attracting fans worldwide.
4. The World’s Steepest Street
Dunedin, on New Zealand’s South Island, lays claim to Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street. With a gradient of 35%, it’s a sight to behold (and a potential challenge for even the fittest!).
5. Home to the Flightless Kiwi
The iconic kiwi, a national symbol, is more than just a delicious fruit. This unique, flightless bird is a cultural icon and a threatened species, carefully protected in conservation efforts.
6. A Natural Wonderland
New Zealand boasts a staggering 30% of its landmass dedicated to national parks and reserves. This commitment to conservation protects its diverse ecosystems, from glaciers and rainforests to volcanic landscapes.
7. The Town with the Longest Name
Taumatawhakatangiangahauahauatapekeangaengaengahuatauripukapikawauwaungatahiwhitimangatoraurukihituapukapikawauwaungatahiwhitimangatoraurukihitua, located in the Hawke’s Bay region, holds the Guinness World Record for the longest official place name.
8. Jet Boating: A Kiwi Invention
The exhilarating jet boat, a popular watercraft for adventure tourism, was actually invented in New Zealand in the 1950s. These powerful boats navigate rivers and lakes with incredible speed and maneuverability.
9. Paying with Hobbit Money?
Believe it or not, New Zealand briefly minted limited-edition “hobbit dollars” in the early 2000s to commemorate the Lord of the Rings film trilogy. While no longer legal tender, these unique coins remain a collector’s item.
10. Glowworms Galore
Waitomo Caves, located on the North Island, are renowned for their mesmerizing display of glowworms. These bioluminescent creatures illuminate the caverns with an ethereal, otherworldly glow.
