New Zealand, a wealthy Pacific nation in which agriculture is the economic mainstay, manufacturing and tourism are also important and there is a world-class film industry. New Zealand has diversified its export markets and has developed strong trade links with Australia, the US, and Japan. In April 2008 it became the first Western country to sign a free trade deal with China.

With a strong history of sporting success, New Zealand’s national rugby union team is often regarded as the best in the world. However, it is football that is the most popular sport from a participation aspect, and notably it was the national football team, the All Whites, that were the only undefeated team at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.