20 surprising facts about New Zealand you might not know

New Zealand, often referred to as Aotearoa by the Māori, is a land full of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and intriguing trivia that can captivate anyone's interest. From the stunning vistas that look like they’ve been filtered through Instagram to the unique flora and fauna, this country offers a wealth of experiences. In this article, we will delve into 20 fascinating facts about New Zealand that you might not know, along with some additional insights into the intriguing 20 New Zealand facts that make this destination unique.

If you’re considering a trip to this stunning destination, check out our guide on the best things to see and do in New Zealand.

Aotearoa: The Land of the Long White Cloud

While commonly known as New Zealand, its Māori name, Aotearoa, translates to "land of the long white cloud." This name reflects the country's often cloudy weather, but don’t let that fool you—New Zealand also boasts plenty of sunshine. In fact, it’s said that you can experience all four seasons in just one day here, making it a unique destination for travelers. This is just one of the many 20 New Zealand facts that highlight its distinctive climate.

The Māori Heritage

Approximately 15% of New Zealand's population is of Māori descent, providing a rich cultural tapestry that blends traditional and modern influences. The Māori have a profound impact on the country's identity, and their customs, language, and practices contribute significantly to New Zealand’s vibrant culture. Understanding their history is essential for anyone wanting to comprehend the spirit of this nation, which is one of the key 20 New Zealand facts that showcase its cultural depth.

The Kiwi: More Than Just a Bird

When people think of New Zealand, they often picture the kiwi. However, this term encompasses three meanings:

Kiwi Bird: The national bird, flightless and unique to New Zealand.
Kiwi Fruit: The fuzzy, brown fruit we all know and love.
Kiwi-People: A colloquial term for New Zealand residents.

Interestingly, while kiwis are synonymous with New Zealand, Italy holds the title for the largest producer of kiwi fruit globally. This fact is a favorite among the 20 New Zealand facts often shared by locals.

Pioneering Women’s Rights

New Zealand holds a proud place in history as the first country to grant women's suffrage in 1893, thanks to the tireless efforts of activists like Kate Sheppard. Compare this to other nations, like Spain, which didn’t achieve this milestone until 1931, and you'll understand the significance of New Zealand's achievement, making it one of the remarkable 20 New Zealand facts.

Sheep vs. Humans

With a population of around 5 million people, New Zealand has a surprisingly low density given its size—larger than the United Kingdom. What’s fascinating is that there are reportedly more sheep than humans, with estimates suggesting about eight sheep for every New Zealander. This interesting dynamic is one of the quirky 20 New Zealand facts that often surprises visitors.

Unique Wildlife

Unlike its neighbor Australia, New Zealand is free from snakes and venomous creatures, making it a safer destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The country is home to a variety of unique species:

Hector's Dolphin: The world's smallest and rarest dolphin.
Tuatara: A reptile often referred to as a "living fossil."
Kea: A highly intelligent parrot known for its playful nature.
Blue Penguin: The smallest species of penguin in the world.

These species, along with others, make New Zealand a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers alike, contributing to the diverse array of 20 New Zealand facts that highlight its ecological uniqueness.

The ANZAC Legacy

New Zealanders, along with their Australian counterparts, played significant roles in both World Wars, proudly forming the ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps). This legacy is celebrated annually on ANZAC Day, a day of remembrance and pride. An interesting culinary note: ANZAC biscuits are a popular treat named after the soldiers, made with oats and ingredients that remained fresh during transport. This is another significant entry in the 20 New Zealand facts that reflect the country's history.

World's Steepest Street

In the city of Dunedin, you’ll find the steepest street in the world, Baldwin Street, which has a gradient of 35%. Each year, the Baldwin Street Gutbuster race challenges participants to run up and down the street, showcasing not just speed but endurance. The current record stands at a staggering 1:56! This fact adds to the intriguing list of 20 New Zealand facts that highlight its unique geographical features.

Queenstown: Adventure Capital

Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown offers an array of adrenaline-pumping activities. It was here that A. J. Hackett pioneered bungee jumping in 1988 at the Kawarau Bridge, and thrill-seekers can also indulge in activities like skydiving and jet boating. This vibrant scene is another thrilling entry in the list of 20 New Zealand facts that adventure lovers should know.

The Longest Place Name

Prepare your tongue, as New Zealand boasts the longest place name in the world: Taumatawhakatangi hangakoauauotamate aturipukakapikima ungahoronukupo kaiwhenuakitanatahu. This name translates to “The place where Tamatea, the man with the big knees, who climbed mountains, the land-swallower who traveled about, played his flute to his loved one.” A true mouthful! This fun fact is certainly one of the entertaining 20 New Zealand facts that delights visitors.

Middle-earth Awaits

No discussion about New Zealand is complete without mentioning The Lord of the Rings. Director Peter Jackson transformed the country's diverse landscapes into the cinematic universe of Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Film enthusiasts can explore various iconic locations, such as Tongariro (Mordor) and Hobbiton, which draw fans from around the globe. This connection to cinema is one of the cultural highlights among the 20 New Zealand facts that attract movie lovers.

A Safe Haven

New Zealand consistently ranks as one of the safest and least corrupt countries in the world, making it an attractive destination for travelers. However, it’s worth noting that the country experiences high ultraviolet radiation levels, largely due to its location near the ozone hole. Always pack sunscreen! This safety aspect is another reassuring point in the comprehensive 20 New Zealand facts that travelers should consider.

The Majestic Aoraki

The Mount Cook (or Aoraki) is the tallest mountain in New Zealand, standing at 3,724 meters. According to Māori legend, Aoraki and his brothers turned into the Southern Alps after their canoe capsized, creating the stunning landscape we see today. This natural wonder is another breathtaking entry in the list of 20 New Zealand facts that showcases its geographical beauty.

The Everest Connection

On a historical note, Sir Edmund Hillary, a New Zealander, was one of the first two individuals to reach the summit of Mount Everest along with Tenzing Norgay on May 29, 1953. Their achievement remains a monumental point in mountaineering history, making it a key highlight among the inspiring 20 New Zealand facts.

The Haka: A Cultural Performance

Rugby is more than just a sport in New Zealand; it is a cultural phenomenon. The national team, known as the All Blacks, is famous for performing the haka, a traditional Māori war dance, before each match. This powerful display of pride and spirit leaves spectators in awe and is a significant part of New Zealand’s identity, representing another cultural facet in the extensive 20 New Zealand facts.

Wellington vs. Auckland

New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, is known as “Windy Welly” for its strong winds, averaging 29.6 km/h. In contrast, Auckland is the largest city, home to 1.6 million residents, and frequently ranks high in global liveability indices. However, it’s also known for its high cost of living. This comparison adds to the intriguing 20 New Zealand facts that highlight the diversity in urban experiences.

The Waitomo Caves

One of New Zealand's hidden gems is the Waitomo Caves, famous for their bioluminescent inhabitants—glowworms. These tiny creatures illuminate the dark caves, creating a magical experience for visitors. It’s a must-see for any traveler exploring the North Island and certainly one of the enchanting 20 New Zealand facts that showcases the beauty of nature.

Commonwealth Connections

As a member of the Commonwealth, New Zealand shares a historical bond with many nations, including a connection to the British monarchy. Alongside the national anthem “God Defend New Zealand,” the unofficial anthem “God Save the Queen” also holds a place of respect in the country. This connection is a notable entry among the 20 New Zealand facts reflecting its historical ties.

Going Barefoot

During our nine-month stay, one of the quirkiest observations was that many people, especially children and teenagers, often go barefoot in public spaces—from parks to libraries. This cultural norm reflects a deep connection with nature, where being barefoot is seen as a way to honor the earth. This unique practice is a fun tidbit in the collection of 20 New Zealand facts that highlight local customs.

A Unique McDonald's Experience

In Taupo, you can visit one of the world's most unusual McDonald's, which features a vintage Douglas DC-3 airplane from 1943 as part of its dining area. This plane was previously used by South Pacific Airlines and now serves customers in a truly unique setting. This quirky location is yet another interesting entry in the 20 New Zealand facts that charm visitors.

We hope these curiosities about New Zealand inspire you to discover more about this beautiful country. Whether you’re planning a visit or just feeding your curiosity, New Zealand offers endless surprises and adventures waiting to be explored. Keep these 20 New Zealand facts in mind as you embark on your journey!

Save on your trip

Compare and find cheap flights here

Find accommodation at the best prices here

Book activities and excursions in Spanish here

Get a 5% discount on your travel insurance with IATI here

Book airport transfers here

Learn how to withdraw money without fees here

Get a 5% discount on your eSIM from Holafly here

Rent a car with the best deals here

Compare prices for van rentals here

The best books and travel guides here

All our articles about New Zealand