Geography of New Zealand
Climate, terrain, natural resources, and geographic features
Total Area
268,838
km² (rank #76)
Coastline
15,134
km
Highest Point
Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724 m)
Lowest Point
Pacific Ocean (0 m)
Area Comparison
New Zealand
268,838 km²
United States (reference)
9,833,520 km²
New Zealand is 2.7% the size of the United States.
Climate
Temperate with sharp regional contrasts; mild and wet on west coast, drier on east
Terrain
Predominantly mountainous with large coastal plains
Natural Resources
Natural Gas
Iron Ore
Sand
Coal
Timber
Hydropower
Gold
Limestone
Land Use
31.4%
66.8%
Arable: 1.8%
Forest: 31.4%
Other: 66.8%
Bordering Countries
Island Nation
New Zealand is an island nation with no land borders.
New Zealand on the Map
Region
Oceania
Australia and New Zealand
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is New Zealand?
New Zealand covers an area of 268,838 km², ranking #76 in the world by size.
What is the climate of New Zealand?
Temperate with sharp regional contrasts; mild and wet on west coast, drier on east
What is the highest point in New Zealand?
The highest point in New Zealand is Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724 m).
What natural resources does New Zealand have?
New Zealand's natural resources include Natural Gas, Iron Ore, Sand, Coal, Timber, Hydropower, Gold, Limestone.
Which countries border New Zealand?
New Zealand is an island nation with no land borders.