New Zealand is formed of two main islands, One located to the north and one the south, and over 700 smaller island around the Southwestern pacific ocean. In the south Island you'll find volcanoes around Tongariro National Park. While both islands have beaches, the North Island has more of the traditional white-sand beaches that are perfect for swimming.
New Zealand was originally occupied by Maori people, but was later found in 1642 by Abel Tasman, a Dutch explorer. Contrary to the common belief that it was discoveredby Captain Cook. Cook however did land on the country 137 years later in 1779, in which he drew maps of the country so it was recognised.