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New Zealand History New Zealand

 
 
Area : 104453  sq.mi - Population 4331600 hab.
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 Historical dates

Around the XIIc, the first Polynesian settlers arrive in New Zealand.
In the XVIc, Portuguese and Spanish ships sail along the coasts on reconnaissance.
In 1642, Dutch Tasman lands and names the country after his home province.
In 1769, James Cook arrives and declares New Zealand a possession of the British crown.
In 1840, the Waitangi treaty is signed by the Maori chiefs and Queen Victoria. It unites New Zealand to the British empire.
During the second half of the XIXth century, conflicts between European settlers and Maori tribes take place.
In 1907, New Zealand becomes one of the Crown's dominions, with an autonomous government.
In 1947, the country enters the Commonwealth.
In 1984, David Lange is at the head of the government.

In 1989, Labour party Geoffrey Palmer becomes Prime Minister.
In 1990, Catherine Tizard is General Governer and Jim Bolger, Prime Minister.
In October 1993, Jim Bolger's national party wins the general election by a narrow margin.
In December 1997, the national party is in power with Jenny Shipley at its head.