New Zealand operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is UTC+12.

Yes, New Zealand observes DST. It starts on the last Sunday in September and ends on the first Sunday in April, with clocks advancing one hour.

The country is two hours ahead of most parts of Australia and three hours ahead during DST. It is also one hour ahead of Fiji.

New Zealand is 17 hours ahead of PST (UTC-8) and 13 hours ahead of EST (UTC-5).

The economy is supported by:

Agriculture: Dairy, sheep farming, and wine production are key exports.

Tourism: Known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities, the country attracts millions of visitors annually.

Film Industry: The vibrant film sector, including projects like *The Lord of the Rings*, has gained global recognition.

The country is famous for its breathtaking natural features and unique biodiversity.

Geography: It consists of two main islands (North Island and South Island) and numerous smaller islands.

Trivia: It is one of the first countries in the world to welcome the new day due to its position near the International Date Line.

The culture is a blend of Māori, European, Pacific Island, and Asian influences.

Māori Culture: The haka, traditional carvings, and pōwhiri ceremonies are integral to Māori traditions.

Festivals: Events like Waitangi Day and Pasifika Festival celebrate the nation's heritage.

Food: Dishes like hāngi (earth oven-cooked meals) and pavlova are iconic.

Customs: The concept of *manaakitanga* emphasizes hospitality and respect for guests.