New Zealand is an island country located in the South Pacific consisting of two main islands and smaller surrounding islands. It has a population of about 3.6 million people, most of whom live in cities. New Zealand has a democratic parliamentary government and is a constitutional monarchy under Queen Elizabeth II. Notable aspects of New Zealand's geography include its volcanic North Island and cooler, rainy South Island with the Southern Alps mountain range. The country has unique wildlife due to its long isolation, including flightless birds like the kiwi. Agriculture, especially farming sheep and dairy cows, forms an important part of New Zealand's economy.