New Zealand is an island country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean consisting of two main islands and several smaller islands. The terrain is mostly hilly and mountainous, with over 75% of the country above 200 meters in elevation. The climate varies from warm and subtropical in the north to cooler and temperate in the south, with alpine climates at higher elevations. New Zealand is known for its unique and diverse natural environment, with green hills, mountains and the flightless kiwi bird.