New Zealand People - Kiwi's

Today, most New Zealand people are well educated and live in the cities and towns. Part of a unique and multicultural society, Kiwi's are quick to pick up new technology and are open to the advances in society and culture that this new technology brings. But they are also private individuals, with a strong self-reliance, and a genius for invention - qualities still evident in the population today.

Good Sports

Kiwi's love their sport. The national game is Rugby and the All Blacks have a huge following. New Zealanders love their rugby and throughout winter, from school grounds to stadiums, you will find people everywhere watching and playing this game. Other popular sports include cricket, netball, soccer and a variety of watersports. Wherever there is the opportunity for competition you will find dedicated New Zealanders giving their best.

Kiwi Inventions

Since before Sir Ernest Rutherford 'split' the atom early in the twentieth century, Kiwis have been discovering and inventing things. Many of these inventions have literally been created in a backyard. While frozen meat, the Hamilton Jet boat, and the bungy jump are probably our most famous Kiwi inventions, there are many others. New Zealanders are also responsible for the tranquilliser gun, seismic 'base' isolators (rubber and lead blocks which minimise earthquake damage), electric fences, the fastest motorbike in the world, freezer vacuum pumps, stamp vending machines, wide-toothed shearing combs, and the electronic petrol pump - to name a few!

Outdoor Activities

New Zealand has a low population density and spectacular scenery. As a result, many New Zealanders have a love of their landscape and the outdoors. Hiking, mountaineering, and kayaking are enjoyed by many Kiwi's, while many more will explore their landscape with a trip to the beach or a bush walk. They are following in the footsteps of perhaps the most adventurous Kiwi, Sir Edmund Hillary, who conquered Mount Everest, the world's highest mountain, in 1953.

Water Activities

With so much coastline, it is no surprise that New Zealanders love the water. New Zealanders were at the forefront of yacht design and racing during much of the 20th century, and continued their dominance into this century by winning and retaining the prestigious America's Cup. New Zealanders have also won many Olympic medals for yachting, windsurfing, kayaking, and rowing.

From farming to industry

As the 20th century progressed, the make-up and character of the New Zealand population began to change. In the early part of the century, the New Zealand economy was largely dependent on agriculture and the export of primary produce. However, after the Second World War, more and more people moved to the cities, and manufacturing and tertiary industries became established