GEOGRAPHY THROUGH MAPS
New Zealand
New Zealand combines oceanic climate with an active plate boundary. Its two main islands share a country but differ in relief, volcanic activity and settlement patterns.
Fast Facts
- Wellington is the capital on North Island; Auckland is farther north.
- Cook Strait separates the two main islands; Foveaux Strait separates South Island from Stewart Island.
- Southern Alps uplift and westerly rainfall help explain the Canterbury rain shadow.
Connected lessons
- New ZealandCountry profile
Geographical connections
- AustralasiaRelated places
- PolynesiaRelated places