New Zealand

Lake Taupō erupts violently in 181 CE.

Around 1,000 years ago, Maori people arrived in New Zealand from Hawaiki in canoes. They were the first inhabitants of the country and played a crucial role in shaping its culture and history.

Earliest archaeological sites suggest that the first settlers arrived in New Zealand around 1280 CE.

During the 1300s, Polynesian people likely continued to settle in New Zealand, characterized by the Archaic Moa-Hunter Culture.

Around 1400, Rangitoto Island near Auckland was created through a series of volcanic eruptions.

There are speculations that in 1576, Spanish explorer Juan Fernández might have visited New Zealand, although this claim is not widely accepted by most credible sources.

On December 13, 1642, Dutch explorer Abel Tasman first spotted the South Island of New Zealand. Initially named Staten Landt, it was later renamed Nieuw Zeeland by the Dutch East India Company cartographer Joan Blaeu.

In 1769, English explorer Captain James Cook embarked on his first voyage to New Zealand. His detailed journals from this expedition inspired other British individuals to consider settling in New Zealand.

Marion du Fresne’s French expedition visited New Zealand, influenced by Jean-Jacques Rousseau's beliefs about 'noble savages'.

A skirmish occurred on December 18, 1773, at Grass Cove in Queen Charlotte Sound, resulting in the deaths of two Māori and nine members of Cook's expedition.

In 1777, Captain Cook returned to New Zealand aboard the Resolution, accompanied by the Discovery captained by Charles Clerke.

An epidemic, possibly influenza, strikes the southern North Island of New Zealand, leading to the death of 60% of the Māori population.

The Chatham Islands were first sighted by the HMS Chatham under the command of William Broughton.

A group of sealers from the ship Britannia arrived and landed in Dusky Sound, New Zealand.

Italian explorer Alessandro Malaspina led a Spanish expedition that mapped Doubtful Sound in New Zealand.

In 1806, the first European women, known as Pākehā, arrived in New Zealand.

The Murders Abroad Act of 1817 mentioned New Zealand, granting legal authority to the Governor of New South Wales over the region in cases of murders or manslaughters committed there.

On 25th September 1819, Reverend Marsden planted 100 vines, marking the first instance of grapes being grown in New Zealand.

On 4th November 1819, Chiefs Hongi Hika and Rewa sold 13,000 acres of land at Kerikeri to the Church Missionary Society in exchange for 48 felling axes.

On 3rd May 1820, Reverend John Butler utilized a plough for the first time in New Zealand at Kerikeri.

In 1821, Hongi Hika and Te Morenga continued the musket wars against southern iwi, a conflict that persisted throughout the decade.

James Busby's arrival in the Bay of Islands set the stage for the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi seven years later.

On November 19, 1835, the brig Lord Raglan arrived at the Chatham Islands carrying 500 armed Māori from Ngati Tama and Ngati Mutunga. They were followed by another ship on December 5 with 400 more Māori. Tragically, many Moriori were killed or enslaved during this time.

In 1837, Captain William Hobson was sent by the New South Wales Governor to assess the situation in New Zealand. He proposed the idea of a treaty with the Māori people and the implementation of British Law.

In 1838, the New Zealand Association was established in London, later evolving into the New Zealand Colonisation Society. This organization, inspired by Edward Gibbon Wakefield, played a crucial role in the colonization efforts in New Zealand.

In June 1839, the territory of New South Wales was expanded to include all of New Zealand through new Letters Patent in reaction to the New Zealand Company's plans to establish colonies in New Zealand.

The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840, marking the founding document of New Zealand.

The Treaty of Waitangi was signed between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs, establishing British sovereignty over New Zealand.

On February 6, 1840, Captain William Hobson and around forty Māori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands, marking a significant event in New Zealand's history with implications on land rights and governance.

William Hobson declared British sovereignty over all New Zealand on 21 May 1840, establishing himself as its Lieutenant governor.

On August 18, 1840, a French colony was established in Akaroa, New Zealand.

The Treaty of Waitangi was signed on 26th September 1840 between the British Crown and various Māori chiefs, establishing New Zealand as a British colony.

The British Government issued the Charter for Erecting the Colony of New Zealand on 16 November 1840, officially establishing New Zealand as a Crown colony separate from New South Wales.

The Colony of New Zealand was formally established as a Crown colony separate from New South Wales on 3 May 1841.

On September 27, 1841, the first Catholic school for boys in Auckland was established, marking the city's first school of any sort.

Governor Hobson passed away on September 10, 1842, leaving a leadership vacuum in New Zealand during a crucial period of colonial development.

Twenty-two European settlers and four Māori were killed in the Wairau Affray at Tuamarina, near the Wairau River, in Marlborough, marking the start of the New Zealand Wars.

Hone Heke initiated the Flagstaff War in 1844.

George Grey assumed the position of governor in 1845.

A landslide obliterated the Ngāti Tūwharetoa village of Te Rapa on the south-west shore of Lake Taupō.

In 1848, the Scottish Otago Association established the settlement of Dunedin in New Zealand, contributing to the colonization and development of the region.

The establishment of the Canterbury settlement in 1850 contributed to the further expansion of European settlement and colonization in New Zealand, particularly in the South Island region.

The British Parliament passed the New Zealand Constitution Act 1852 in response to the growing demand for self-governance from British settlers. This act established a central government with an elected General Assembly and six provincial governments, setting the stage for responsible government in New Zealand.

About 100 Māori chiefs enrolled to vote in the 1853 New Zealand general election.

New Zealand's Parliament was established in 1854, just 14 years after the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, marking the beginning of European settlement in the country. Throughout its history, New Zealand has maintained some form of elected government.

The general election in New Zealand took place from October 28 to December 28, 1855.

Henry Sewell briefly held the position of the country's first premier before being replaced by William Fox.

Auckland's first Catholic boys' secondary school, St Peter's School, was established in 1857.

Te Wherowhero became the first Māori King, adopting the name Pōtatau I, in 1858.

In 1859, the representative of the crown accepted an offer to sell land from a Taranaki subchief, leading to civil strife in New Zealand as the paramount chief's veto was ignored.

A decade of land wars began in 1860 between Maoris and European settlers in New Zealand.

In 1861, Grey was sent back for a second term as governor of New Zealand, where instead of being a peacemaker, he accelerated the extension of conflict.

In 1862, the Pai Mārire (Hauhauism) movement began in New Zealand, where Māori rejected settler and missionary religions and put their own imprint on Christianity.

On February 7, 1863, HMS Orpheus tragically sank in Manukau Harbour, resulting in the loss of 189 lives and becoming one of the deadliest maritime disasters in New Zealand's history.

A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck central New Zealand on February 23, 1863, causing significant damage across the region and highlighting the seismic risks in the area.

In 1864, the war in the Waikato region concluded with the decisive battle of Orakau, marking a significant event in the New Zealand Wars and shaping the future of the country.

The government launches the first of what would become 3,000,000 acres of land-confiscations from Māori in Waikato, Taranaki, Bay of Plenty, and Hawke's Bay in 1865, leading to significant land disputes and tensions.

The general election held in New Zealand from 12 February to 6 April 1866.

As a result of some iwi cooperating with the government during the New Zealand Wars, the four Māori electorates were established in the House of Representatives in 1867. This marked a significant political development for Māori representation in the government.

The clipper Celestial Queen arrived at Port Chalmers carrying the first shipment of live fish ova from England, intended to provide sport for settlers.

Colonial troops invaded the Urewera to punish Tūhoe for supporting Te Kooti Rikirangi after their defeat at Ngātapa.

The University of New Zealand was created by the New Zealand University Act, modeled after the University of London. It operated as a federal university system until 1961.

The 1871 New Zealand general election took place from January 14 to February 23, shaping the political landscape of the country for the following years.

Te Kooti retreated to the King Country in 1872, leading to the cessation of Māori armed resistance in New Zealand.

The New Zealand Shipping Company was founded in 1873, playing a significant role in the maritime trade and transportation industry of New Zealand.

The first steam engine in New Zealand was constructed in Invercargill in 1874, marking a milestone in the country's industrial development.

The 1875-1876 New Zealand general election took place from 20 December to 29 January. It was a significant event in New Zealand's political history.

In 1876, Premier Vogel abolished the provincial governments in New Zealand as they had become outmoded and lost their purpose when the central government took over the function of development. The abolition was more of an affront to local pride than local prosperity.

In 1877, the Education Act was passed in New Zealand, introducing a national system of primary education that was free, secular, and compulsory.

The Main South Line railway linking Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill was completed in 1878, improving transportation in the region.

In an act of passive resistance, Māori at Parihaka engaged in ploughing campaigns on 26 May 1879 in Taranaki. This peaceful protest was a notable event in the history of Māori resistance against land confiscations and unjust practices.

The 1879 New Zealand general election took place from August 28 to September 15, where all men were enfranchised to vote. This election marked an important step towards democracy in New Zealand.

In 1881, New Zealand held a general election to elect members of the Parliament. This election was significant in shaping the political landscape of New Zealand during that time.

King Tawhiao visited Auckland in 1882, where he received a civic reception, attended a banquet, and witnessed a fireworks display. This visit was a significant event in the relations between the Maori King and the colonial authorities.

In 1883, a direct steamer link was established between New Zealand and Britain, improving transportation and communication between the two distant regions. This development had a major impact on trade and connectivity.

The 1884 New Zealand general election took place on June 22, determining the political landscape and representation in the government.

On August 1, the International Industrial Exhibition was inaugurated in Wellington, showcasing industrial advancements and innovations.

On September 9, a total Eclipse of the Sun was observed in Wellington, attracting scientific interest and observation.

In 1885, Mary C. Leavitt, a World Missionary for the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, toured New Zealand to establish local branches and advocate for women's rights.

The eruption of Mount Tarawera led to the destruction of the famous Pink and White Terraces, resulting in the loss of 153 lives.

German warships SMS Gneisenau & SMS Olga visited Auckland during this period.

Russian naval Vestnik unexpectedly visited Wellington during this time frame.

Japanese warship Tsubka made a visit to Wellington.

On September 26, 1887, New Zealand held its general election.

A meeting in Dunedin called for a ban on further Chinese immigrants, reflecting anti-Chinese sentiment in the city.

On August 12, 1888, Reefton became the first town in the Southern Hemisphere to have a public supply of electricity after the commissioning of the Reefton Power Station.

In 1889, the first New Zealand-built locomotive was completed at Addington Workshops.

The first election in New Zealand to be conducted on a one-man-one-vote basis.

John Ballance assumes the position of Premier in the Liberal Government of New Zealand.

The first Kotahitanga Māori Parliament convenes in New Zealand.

John Ballance, the Premier of New Zealand, passes away.

Richard John Seddon became premier following the death of John Ballance. Known as 'King Dick', Seddon was the longest-serving premier or prime minister of New Zealand.

New Zealand grants all women the right to vote, becoming the first country to implement universal suffrage.

The general election held in New Zealand in 1893.

In 1894, Clark, Fyfe, and Graham achieved the first documented ascent of Mt Cook in New Zealand.

On October 13, 1896, the first public screening of a motion picture took place in New Zealand.

The general election held in New Zealand in 1896.

Margaret Cruickshank, the first female doctor registered in New Zealand, practiced in Waimate, South Canterbury.

War threatened Hokianga as government troops marched towards armed Māori 'rebels'.

The general election held in New Zealand on December 6, 1899.

In 1900, the Māori Councils Act was passed in New Zealand, along with the Public Health Act setting up the Department of Public Health in 1901.

The Union of the Synod of Otago and Southland with the Northern Presbyterian Church led to the establishment of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The general election held in New Zealand in 1902 saw significant political decisions being made by the electorate.

Richard Pearse successfully achieved a semi-controlled flight near Timaru, showcasing early advancements in aviation technology.

On 15 August 1903, the New Zealand All Blacks played their first Rugby Test Match against Australia's Wallabies at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. New Zealand emerged victorious with a score of 22–3.

In 1905, the New Zealand rugby team embarked on a tour to England, gaining fame and recognition as the All Blacks.

On 10 June 1906, Richard Seddon, the Premier of New Zealand, passed away, leading to Joseph Ward succeeding him in office.

On 6 December 1905, New Zealand held its general election, marking an important political event in the country.

New Zealand pupils were able to read a schoolbook published in their own country for the first time.

On June 7, 1907, New Zealand became a Dominion within the British Empire, granting it greater autonomy in self-governance. This event marked a significant step towards New Zealand's independence.

On June 26, 1907, New Zealand became a dominion within the British Empire, gaining more autonomy in its governance. This marked a significant step towards self-governance for New Zealand while remaining part of the British Empire.

New Zealand gained dominion status within the British Empire on September 26, 1907, granting it greater autonomy in internal affairs.

On September 26, 1907, the Dominion of New Zealand was officially declared, marking a significant milestone in New Zealand's history as it became a self-governing colony within the British Empire.

The 1908 New Zealand general election took place on November 17, 24, and December 1, shaping the country's political landscape and governance for the coming years.

In 1909, the "Red" Federation of Labour was established, representing a significant development in New Zealand's labor movement and advocating for workers' rights and fair treatment.

Halley's Comet was observed in the skies of New Zealand during this year.

The 1911 New Zealand general election took place on December 7th and 14th.

William Massey won the vote in the House and became the Prime Minister of New Zealand, leading to the formation of the Reform Government.

Significant waterfront strikes occurred in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand.

On August 15, 1914, troops from New Zealand left for Samoa.

On August 29, 1914, New Zealand troops landed unopposed in Apia.

On December 10, 1914, the general election took place in New Zealand.

On 25 April 1915, New Zealanders and Australians commemorate the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings where thousands of young men from both countries fought on the beaches of the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey.

Anthony Wilding, New Zealand's successful tennis player, was killed in battle during the First World War.

On June 10, 1916, the passing of the Military Services Bill introduced conscription in New Zealand, leading to compulsory military enlistment.

In 1917, the Battle of Passchendaele resulted in the deaths of 3,700 New Zealand soldiers, marking a significant loss in the war.

The Auckland Mounted Rifles Regiment (AMR) and the rest of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade (NZMR) move east across Palestine into the Jordan Valley in early 1918.

The return home of the New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade (NZMR) is delayed in 1919 due to a shortage of shipping.

Darcy Hadfield achieves the milestone of winning the first Olympic medal for New Zealand.

The New Zealand general election takes place on December 7, 1922.

The Otira tunnel opens and the Midland Line between Christchurch and Greymouth is completed in 1923.

The All Black 'Invincibles' rugby team tours Britain and France in 1924.

Originally intended for Railways Department staff, the New Zealand Railways Magazine became a popular general-interest periodical.

In 1928, New Zealand introduced the concept of daylight saving time known as New Zealand Summer Time.

Charles Ewing Mackay, the disgraced former mayor of Whanganui, was shot dead by Berlin police during May Day riots in the German capital.

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Hawke's Bay, resulting in the tragic loss of 256 lives.

The newly formed Coalition Government, led by George Forbes, emerged victorious in the general election held on December 2nd.

Riots erupted in Auckland, Dunedin, and Christchurch due to high unemployment rates and economic hardships.

Elizabeth McCombs made history by becoming the first woman Member of Parliament in New Zealand on September 9th.

The Reserve Bank and Mortgage Corporation were established, playing crucial roles in New Zealand's financial and economic sectors.

The Labour Party in power after 1935 had a foreign policy that opposed militarism and arms build-ups, sympathized with the Soviet Union, and advocated negotiations with Nazi Germany. It also denounced Italy's role in Ethiopia and supported the republican forces in the Spanish Civil War.

The engineer-in-charge and the overseer were killed in the second avalanche to hit the Homer tunnel project in less than 12 months.

New Zealand's first state house was officially opened on 18 September 1937, marking a significant milestone in the country's housing history.

On 15th October 1938, the Labour Party in New Zealand was re-elected in the general election, signaling continued support for their policies and leadership.

On 3rd September 1939, New Zealand declared war on Germany, marking the country's entry into World War II and its commitment to the Allied cause.

Starting on 12th September 1939, enlistment in the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force commenced, mobilizing troops for military service in World War II.

On January 5, 1940, the First Echelon of the 2NZEF left New Zealand to head towards the Middle East.

The main body of the First Echelon of the 2NZEF reached Maadi Camp in Egypt on February 12, 1940.

On March 27, 1940, Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage died.

Peter Fraser assumed office as the Prime Minister of New Zealand on April 1, 1940.

On June 11, 1940, New Zealand officially declared war on Italy, joining the Allies in the conflict.

The RMS Niagara struck a mine off Bream Head, Northland on June 19, 1940, leading to a tragic maritime incident.

On August 2, 1940, the Home Guard was established, playing a crucial role in New Zealand's defense during World War II.

The German raider Orion sank the steamer Turakina off Cape Egmont on August 20, 1940, causing a significant loss of life and resources.

The steamer Holmwood was sunk by German raiders off the Chatham Islands on November 25, 1940, adding to the maritime losses during the war.

On November 27, 1940, the Rangitane was sunk by German raiders 480 km from East Cape, contributing to the naval conflicts in the region.

From May 20 to June 1, 1941, New Zealand forces suffered heavy losses in the Battle of Crete during World War II. The battle was a significant conflict in the Mediterranean theatre.

On December 8, 1941, New Zealand officially declared war on Japan in response to the attack on Pearl Harbor. This marked the country's entry into World War II.

The first 5 ships of American troops from the 37th US Army Division landed in Auckland, marking a significant moment in the alliance between New Zealand and the United States during World War II.

The first American Marines from the 1st Corps Division landed in Wellington, further strengthening the military cooperation between New Zealand and the United States.

New Zealand troops participated in the invasion of Italy, contributing to the Allied efforts in the European theater of World War II.

New Zealand celebrated Victory in Europe after Germany surrendered, waiting for Winston Churchill's official announcement.

On September 9, 1945, the Rimutaka Tunnel collapsed, leading to significant disruptions in transportation and infrastructure.

On December 15, 1945, the Main North Line railway project was successfully completed, connecting Christchurch and Picton in New Zealand, enhancing transportation and trade between the two regions.

A railway disaster occurred in Manawatu Gorge on August 20, 1946, resulting in a tragic event that impacted the transportation sector in New Zealand.

On November 24, 1946, New Zealand held a general election to elect representatives to the government, shaping the country's political landscape for the coming years.

New Zealand gained full dominion status within the British Empire on January 1, 1947.

A tragic fire broke out in Ballantyne's department store in Christchurch on November 18, 1947, resulting in the loss of 41 lives.

In September 1948, meat rationing came to an end.

In June 1950, New Zealand ended butter rationing, allowing citizens to purchase butter freely after a period of restriction.

On December 27, 1951, New Zealand held a general election, shaping the country's political landscape for the coming years.

In 1952, New Zealand's population surpassed two million, reflecting the country's growth and demographic changes.

In 1953, New Zealander Edmund Hillary reached the summit of Mount Everest, presenting Queen Elizabeth II with a coronation gift. This accomplishment brought pride to New Zealanders and highlighted the country's connection to the British monarchy.

On September 20, 1954, amidst a moral panic, the Mazengarb Report was presented, addressing social issues and concerns of the time.

On November 13, 1954, New Zealand held its general election, shaping the country's political landscape for the coming years.

On November 3, 1955, the Rimutaka rail tunnel was opened in New Zealand.

In 1956, New Zealand sent troops to Malaya as part of a military operation.

On February 17, 1957, Walter James Bolton was the last person to be hanged in New Zealand.

On November 30, 1957, a general election took place in New Zealand where the National party lost and Walter Nash led the Second Labour Government.

During 1958, Arnold Nordmeyer presented the 'Black Budget', a controversial budget that introduced significant tax increases in New Zealand.

By 1961, New Zealand's economy heavily relied on exporting frozen meat and dairy products to the United Kingdom, with over 51% of exports directed towards Britain. This export dependency shaped New Zealand's economic landscape and trade relationships.

On August 11, 1962, the Cook Strait rail ferry service began.

On July 3, 1963, New Zealand National Airways Corporation Flight 441 crashed in the Kaimai Ranges, resulting in the death of 23 individuals.

Tram no. 252, driven by Wellington Mayor Frank Kitts, marked the end of electric trams in New Zealand with a trip from Thorndon to Newtown zoo.

On April 1st, TEAL is renamed as Air New Zealand, marking a significant rebranding of the national airline.

On November 26, 1966, the National Party won a third term in the New Zealand general election, shaping the country's political landscape.

On July 10, 1967, Lord Arthur Porritt made history by becoming the first New Zealand-born Governor-General, representing a shift in the country's governance.

On April 10, 1968, the inter-island ferry TEV Wahine sank in a severe storm in Wellington Harbour, resulting in the tragic loss of 51 lives.

The Inangahua earthquake on May 24, 1968, led to the death of three individuals, highlighting the destructive power of natural disasters.

On November 29, 1969, the National party secured victory in the general election, marking their fourth consecutive win in New Zealand's political landscape.

Pop singer John Rowles' hit single 'Cheryl Moana Marie' sold a million copies worldwide, establishing him as an international star.

Spiro Agnew, the US Vice President, visits New Zealand to garner support for the Vietnam War. However, his visit is met with an anti-war protest in Auckland, which escalates into violence.

On November 25, 1972, the Labour Government was elected in New Zealand, with Norman Kirk becoming the 29th Prime Minister.

In 1973, Britain's entry into the European Community led to the abrogation of preferential trade agreements with New Zealand. This event forced New Zealand to seek new markets and prompted a re-examination of its national identity and global position.

On April 1, 1974, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) was established in New Zealand.

On August 31, 1974, Prime Minister Norman Kirk passed away, and Bill Rowling succeeded him as the 30th Prime Minister of New Zealand.

On January 4, 1975, Lynne Cox achieved the historic feat of becoming the first woman to swim across the challenging Cook Strait.

On September 14, 1975, a Māori land march protesting land loss reached Te Hāpua, highlighting the ongoing struggle for indigenous land rights in New Zealand.

On October 13, 1975, the Māori land march led by Whina Cooper reached the Parliament building in Wellington, where a Memorial of Rights was presented to the Prime Minister and the Māori Affairs Minister, symbolizing the fight for Māori land rights.

On November 29, 1975, the New Zealand general election took place, resulting in the victory of the National Party and the appointment of Robert Muldoon as the 31st Prime Minister of New Zealand.

On January 5, 1977, protesters occupied Bastion Point in New Zealand to oppose the government's decision to develop the land. This event became a significant moment in the country's history, highlighting indigenous rights and land issues.

On 12th February 1978, 17 protestors, led by Eva Rickard, were arrested after setting up camp on the Raglan golf course.

On 1st April 1978, the National Airways Corporation merged with Air New Zealand.

On 25th May 1978, the Army and Police removed protesters from Bastion Point, resulting in 218 arrests.

On 21st November 1978, God Defend New Zealand was officially adopted as a national anthem alongside God Save the Queen.

On 25th November 1978, a general election was held in New Zealand, leading to the National party being re-elected.

In 1979, Air New Zealand Flight 901 tragically crashed on Mount Erebus in Antarctica, resulting in the loss of 257 lives.

On 7th November 1980, MP Matiu Rata resigned from the Labour Party to join the Mana Motuhake Party.

National party was re-elected for the third term in the general election held on 28th November 1981.

In 1982, New Zealand signed the Closer Economic Relations (CER) agreement with Australia.

The arrival of the nuclear-powered United States Navy frigate 'Texas' in New Zealand led to protests.

The Labour Party, led by David Lange, emerged victorious in the 1984 general election in New Zealand.

David Lange assumes office as the 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand, leading the Fourth Labour government.

The New Zealand dollar is floated, marking a significant shift in the country's monetary policy and exchange rate mechanism.

The Greenpeace vessel Rainbow Warrior is bombed and sunk by French DGSE agents in Auckland harbour, leading to international outcry and diplomatic tensions.

In 1986, the Constitution Act in New Zealand formally ended the authority of the British Parliament to legislate for New Zealand. This marked a crucial step towards New Zealand's full sovereignty.

On August 15, 1987, a general election was held in New Zealand resulting in the Labour Party being re-elected to govern the country.

The central section of the North Island Main Trunk railway was completed with electrification, improving transportation efficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

In December 1988, New Zealand declared its first Marine Mammal Sanctuary in Akaroa Harbour and the surrounding area to protect the threatened Hector's Dolphin. This initiative was a result of collaborative efforts by various environmental and conservation groups.

Prime Minister David Lange suggested a formal withdrawal from ANZUS, signaling a shift in New Zealand's foreign policy and international relations.

On April 30, 1990, New Zealand phased out one- and two-cent coins, a significant step in modernizing the country's currency system.

In the 1990 New Zealand general election, the National Party achieved a significant win, leading to a landslide victory. Jim Bolger assumed office as the 35th Prime Minister following this election.

David Gray carried out a tragic massacre in Aramoana, resulting in the death of thirteen individuals before being shot dead by the police.

A march called the Hikoi of Hope took place, where people marched to Parliament to demand more support for the poor.

In 1992, New Zealand secured a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

On November 6, 1993, the National party won the general election without securing a majority.

Opposition MP Peter Tapsell becomes Speaker of the House, giving the government a majority.

Team New Zealand wins the America's Cup.

French nuclear tests are renewed, leading to protests in New Zealand including a protest flotilla and navy ship 'Tui' sailing for Moruroa Atoll.

The first Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) election in New Zealand brings the National/New Zealand First coalition government to power.

The Black Ferns, New Zealand's women's rugby team, achieve victory by becoming the world champions in the Women's Rugby World Cup.

The coalition government between the National Party and New Zealand First is dissolved, leaving Jenny Shipley's National Party to govern as a minority government.

In January 2000, the name suppression of American billionaire Peter Lewis, arrested and convicted of drug possession charges, sparked controversy.

In 2003, the local Supreme Court of New Zealand was established, replacing appeals from the Court of Appeal to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.

In 2004, the Supreme Court of New Zealand was established, replacing the system of appeals to the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. It began its operations in early 2004.

On September 17, 2005, New Zealand held its general election, resulting in the Labour-led government being returned for a third consecutive term.

In 2006, the Labour government fulfilled its election promise by removing interest on loans for students residing in New Zealand, aiming to make education more accessible.

Freeview, a free-to-air digital television service, is officially launched on May 2nd, 2007.

The KiwiSaver retirement savings scheme is introduced on July 1st, 2007, aiming to help New Zealanders save for their retirement.

Willie Apiata becomes the first New Zealander since World War II to be awarded the Victoria Cross, receiving this prestigious honor on July 2nd, 2007.

The Electoral Finance Act was put into effect on December 18, 2007, regulating the financing of political parties and candidates during election campaigns in New Zealand.

On January 11, 2008, renowned mountaineer Sir Edmund Hillary passed away, leaving behind a legacy of being the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest along with Tenzing Norgay in 1953.

In the general election held on November 8, 2008, the National Party emerged victorious, ending the nine-year reign of the Labour-led government in New Zealand.

On November 27, 2008 (28 November NZ Time), XL Airways Germany A320 Flight 888T, operated by Air New Zealand, tragically crashed in the Mediterranean Sea off the south coast of France, resulting in the loss of all seven individuals on board, including five New Zealanders.

In 2009, Helen Clark, former Prime Minister of New Zealand, assumed the role of Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), marking a significant position as the third-highest ranking official in the UN office.

A magnitude 6.3 earthquake hits Christchurch, resulting in widespread destruction and claiming the lives of 184 individuals.

The scheduled 2011 New Zealand census on this date was called off due to the impact of the Christchurch earthquake.

The All Blacks triumph over France with a score of 8-7 in the Rugby World Cup held at Eden Park, New Zealand.

The Fifth National Government secures a second term in office with a reduced majority in the 2011 general election.

The Royal Commission investigating the Pike River mine tragedy releases its findings on this date.

Same-sex marriage is officially legalized in New Zealand on this day.

Local government elections take place in New Zealand on this date.

On 1st December 2013, analogue television was switched off in New Zealand.

Pencarrow Lighthouse at the entrance to Wellington Harbour celebrates its 155th anniversary. It is New Zealand’s first permanent lighthouse and was home to the country’s first female lighthouse keeper.

The Eketahuna earthquake occurred on 20th January 2014, causing moderate damage in the lower North Island of New Zealand.

On 20th September 2014, the 2014 general election was held in New Zealand, with the National Party winning a third term in office.

The All Blacks become the only team to win the Rugby World Cup twice in a row.

A magnitude 7.8 earthquake hits near Kaikoura in the South Island of New Zealand.

John Key announces his resignation as the Prime Minister and leader of the National Party, effective from 12 December.

Bill English takes office as the 39th Prime Minister of New Zealand succeeding John Key.

Emirates Team New Zealand emerges victorious in the 35th America's Cup sailing competition.

The Waterview Tunnels, each 2.4 km long, surpass the Lyttelton Road Tunnel to become the longest road tunnels in New Zealand.

The National Party wins the most seats in the general election, but the Labour Party sees a significant increase in its seat count.

Labour and New Zealand First come together to form a coalition government, with Jacinda Ardern becoming the 40th Prime Minister of New Zealand.

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On November 12, 2017, the Black Ferns, the New Zealand women's rugby team, clinch victory in the Women's Rugby World Cup for the sixth time. This achievement solidified their dominance in women's rugby on the global stage.

A tragic attack on two mosques in Christchurch results in the loss of 51 lives during the Christchurch mosque shootings.

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On February 28, 2020, COVID-19 reached New Zealand, marking the beginning of the pandemic's impact on the country.

The 2020 general election in New Zealand, originally scheduled for 19 September but delayed due to a COVID-19 outbreak, took place on 17 October.

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in New Zealand's history, passes away at the age of 96 after a reign of 70 years.

Women achieve 50% representation in the New Zealand Parliament for the first time in history.

On January 19, 2023, Jacinda Ardern announces her resignation as the Prime Minister of New Zealand, with the resignation taking effect no later than February 7. This announcement marked a significant political development in New Zealand.

On January 25, 2023, Chris Hipkins is sworn in as the 41st Prime Minister of New Zealand. This event followed Jacinda Ardern's resignation and marked a new leadership era in the country.

On January 27, 2023, Auckland experiences torrential rain leading to widespread flooding, slips, evacuations, and sadly, the deaths of four individuals due to Cyclone Hale. This natural disaster had a significant impact on the city and its residents.

A poster displaying significant events that have occurred in the history of New Zealand. It provides a visual representation of key moments in the country's past.