Located approximately 1,600 kilometers southeast of Australia, volcanic forces shaped New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes millions of years ago.
Map of New Zealand
Key geography facts
1. New Zealand is made up of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, separated by the Cook Strait. The third largest island, Stewart Island, lies to the south of South Island.
2. The North Island features active and dormant volcanoes, with Mount Ruapehu being the highest point on this island (9,176 feet [2,797 meters]). The entire country was formed by volcanic forces around 23 million years ago.
3. The South Island is home to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, reaching 12,218 feet (3,724 meters). The Maori call the mountain Aoraki, which means “cloud piercer.”
4. The South Island’s western coast is known for its stunning fjords, including Milford Sound, part of Fiordland National Park, one of the wettest regions in the world.
5. New Zealand’s largest lake is Lake Taupo on the North Island, which has geothermally heated mineral hot pools. The longest river, the Waikato, also flows on the North Island. The South Island is home to Lake Wakatipu, Lake Wanaka, and Lake Tekapo, all known for their scenic beauty.
Recommended reading: Fun Facts About New Zealand
New Zealand regions
New Zealand has 16 regions (regional councils) and the Chatham Islands Territory.
- Auckland
- Bay of Plenty
- Canterbury
- Gisborne
- Hawke’s Bay
- Manawatū-Whanganui
- Marlborough
- Nelson
- Northland
- Otago
- Southland
- Taranaki
- Tasman
- Waikato
- Wellington
- West Coast
Map of New Zealand in Oceania
New Zealand is southeast of Australia across the Tasman Sea and south of the islands of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga.
New Zealand major cities
Auckland – The largest city, known for its multicultural population, bustling waterfront, and iconic Sky Tower.
Wellington – The capital city, famous for its vibrant arts scene, government buildings, and picturesque harbor.
Christchurch – Known as the “Garden City,” renowned for its parks, English heritage, and as a gateway to the South Island.
Hamilton – A city in the Waikato region, known for its beautiful gardens and as a hub for agriculture and education.
Tauranga – A coastal city known for its stunning beaches, harbor, and thriving port.
Dunedin – A historic city with strong Scottish roots, famous for its Edwardian and Victorian architecture and vibrant student population.
Hastings – Known for its Art Deco buildings, wineries, and is a hub for the Hawke’s Bay region.
Rotorua – Renowned for its geothermal activity, Maori culture, and adventure tourism.
Palmerston North – A city overlooking the Manawatu River known for its educational institutions and agricultural significance.
Nelson – A city on the South Island, famous for its arts community, sunny climate, and access to national parks.
Whangārei – The northernmost city in New Zealand, known for its beautiful harbor, nearby beaches, and the capital of the Northland region.
New Plymouth – A coastal city on the west coast of the North Island, known for its stunning views of Mount Taranaki, vibrant arts scene, and beautiful parks like Pukekura Park.
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and owner of The Facts Institute. A teacher for seven years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.
Ivy Hollys is a freelance content writer for integrity-based information platforms.
Her focus is primarily on using her skill to provide accurate information to everyone. With a background in natural resource conservation, she writes helpful content for platforms with similar interest.
Her experience in writing spans across various platforms including news and lifestyle blogs in her home country and abroad.