Oceania/Australia and New Zealand
New Zealand
Wellington
5.3 Mio
268 838 km²
New Zealand dollar
Coastal
English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
Historical Events
1280 - Polynesian Settlement
Polynesians began settling in New Zealand, developing a distinct Māori culture.
1642 - First European Sight
Dutch explorer Abel Tasman became the first European to sight and record New Zealand.
1769 - Captain Cook's Arrival
British explorer Captain James Cook became the first European to step foot on and map New Zealand.
1840 - Treaty of Waitangi
The United Kingdom and Māori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi, establishing British sovereignty.
1841 - Establishment of Crown Colony
The Crown Colony of New Zealand was established following the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
1907 - Dominion Status
New Zealand became a dominion, marking a step towards full independence.
1947 - Full Statutory Independence
New Zealand gained full statutory independence while retaining the British monarch as head of state.