History, Culture, and Land

The History

• 1000—The native tribes, the Maori, populate New Zealand.
• 1769—James Cook lands in New Zealand and claims it for Britain.
• 1840—After more Europeans arrive, the Treaty of Waitangi is signed, placing the New Zealand Maori under Britain’s control.
• 1860s—War demonstrates turbulence between settlers and Maori.
• 1860s—The New Zealand Gold Rush brings many more immigrates.
• 1907—New Zealand becomes an independent dominion of Britain.
• 1985—Some Maori tribal land is returned to the Maori (reversing some results of the Treaty of Waitangi).
• 1990s—Air Force is considerably reduced; New Zealand begins to lean toward liberal policies.

The Culture

New Zealand population is mostly Maori and European, with some Asian and other people groups. All the groups impact the overall culture, which is sometimes perceived as rural and casual. Generally, New Zealanders are reserved and pleasant, and welcome Americans.

The Land

New Zealand is southeast of Australia, and is composed of two main islands—the North Island and the South Island—and other tiny islands. The “ditch” separates the North Island and the South Island. (Arahina Training Centre is on the North Island.) New Zealand’s land is beautiful and diverse, ranging from snow-covered mountains to tranquil pastures and miles of coastline. Many Kiwi (native New Zealanders) raise sheep on the idyllic pastures.

Because New Zealand is south of the equator, their seasons are opposite of ours in North America. During their summer (December–February), the temperatures at the Training Centre get up to the mid-80s. In the winter, however, it is rainy and damp, and can be quite windy.