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A Young Country Growing Up Quickly

From the days of the original settlers, New Zealand has always been a place of challenges and opportunities. Today, it is still possible to leave the centre of any of its cities and be in the countryside in under an hour; it has magnificent coastlines, dramatic inland scenery and a population of just over 4 million people.

The climate varies from almost sub-tropical at the top of the North Island to more distinct seasons in the South Island. Christchurch is in the South Island. Agriculture is still important to New Zealand, resulting in an abundant supply of seasonal fresh produce, excellent meat and a world-class wine industry. This, in turn, has resulted in a new generation of chefs eager to make use of fresh ingredients. Visitors from overseas have not been slow to recognise the attractions of the country, and its combination of available land, modest cost of living and accessible sporting facilities such as golf courses, ski fields and safe beaches have converted many. New Zealanders are justifiably proud of their country, but will politely wait for you to offer a compliment before agreeing with your judgement.

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