Where in the world is New Zealand?
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The terrain is predominantly mountainous with large coastal plains. New Zealand's geography is diverse because it also has a lush rainforest. Earthquakes are common, though usually not severe. Volcanic activity does occur in New Zealand. Mount Ruapehu (elev. 2,797 m) on the north island, last erupted in 2007 and has a history of large eruptions in the past century. Mount Taranaki has the potential to produce dangerous avalanches. Other historically active volcanoes include Okataina, Raoul Island, Tongariro, and White Island.
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New Zealand's coastline totals 15,134 km long. New Zealanders and tourists kayak on these waters as well as, sail, surf, fish, scuba dive as well as windsurf and kitesurf. For a feast of great waves follow Surf Highway 45 around the Taranaki coast - it curves through 180 degrees, so there's always something happening. Further north is Raglan, which has achieved legendary status thanks to its epic left-hand point break. Other North Island locations - such as Piha, Muriwai, Waipu, Mount Maunganui and Gisborne - are pumping when conditions are right. In the South Island check out Kaikoura and Dunedin.
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Sources:
CIA. "The World Factnbook." n.d. CIS.gov. May 2015.
Laburn, L. "Kids with a view." 2014. Blogspot.com. May 2015.
Dauer, Laura. "My Adventures in New Zealand." 2011. blogspot.com. May 2015.
"New Zealand land of volcanoes." 2013. Astronoo. May 2015.
"New Zealand's Great Walks." 2011. Switch back travel. May 2015.
"New Zealand daily escape." n.d. Travel Channel. May 2015.
CIA. "The World Factnbook." n.d. CIS.gov. May 2015.
Laburn, L. "Kids with a view." 2014. Blogspot.com. May 2015.
Dauer, Laura. "My Adventures in New Zealand." 2011. blogspot.com. May 2015.
"New Zealand land of volcanoes." 2013. Astronoo. May 2015.
"New Zealand's Great Walks." 2011. Switch back travel. May 2015.
"New Zealand daily escape." n.d. Travel Channel. May 2015.