People and Society of New Zealand

Nationality

New Zealander(s)

Ethnic Groups

New Zealand European 74.5%, Maori 9.7%, other European 4.6%, Pacific Islander 3.8%, Asian and others 7.4%

Population

4,252,277

Population in Major Urban Areas

Auckland 1.452 million; WELLINGTON (capital) 410,000

Quality medical care is widely available, but waiting lists exist for certain types of treatment. High-quality medication (both over-the-counter and prescription) is widely available at local pharmacies, although the name of the product may differ from the U.S. version. Access to medical care may be less available in rural areas. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.

Literacy Definition

age 15 and over can read and write

• unspecified or none33.0%
• Anglican24.0%
• Presbyterian18.0%
• Roman Catholic15.0%
• Methodist5.0%
• other Protestant3.0%
• Baptist2.0%

English (official), Maori (official)

• Maori
• English

Crime Information

The crime rate in New Zealand is relatively low, but theft from cars, recreational vehicles, and hostels is common, especially in areas frequented by tourists. Do not leave passports or other valuable items in unattended vehicles. Violent crime against tourists is rare; however, if you are traveling alone, you should be especially vigilant and avoid isolated areas. Do not buy counterfeit and/or pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, but if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

Criminal Penalties

While you are traveling in New Zealand, you are subject to its laws. New Zealand’s laws and legal systems can be vastly different from our own. If you break local laws, your U.S. passport will not help you avoid arrest or prosecution; therefore, it is very important to know what is legal and what is not. There are also some things that might be legal in other countries, but are still illegal in the United States and may result in your prosecution, such as buying pirated goods or engaging in child pornography. New Zealand officials generally notify the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland if a U.S. citizen is detained or arrested; however, that is not always the case. To ensure that U.S. consular officials are aware of your circumstances, request that New Zealand police and prison officials notify the U.S. Consulate General in Auckland as soon as possible.