Diplomatic representation from the US: chief of mission: Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN embassy: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington mailing address : P. O. Box 1190, Wellington; PSC 467, Box 1, FPO AP 96531-1001 telephone: [64] (4) 472-2068 FAX: [64] (4) 472-3537 consulate(s) general: Auckland
Flag description: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant with four red five-pointed stars edged in white centered in the outer half of the flag; the stars represent the Southern Cross constellation
Economy
Economy - overview: Since 1984 the government has accomplished major economic restructuring from an agrarian economy dependent on a concessionary British market access toward a more industrialized, open, free market economy that can compete globally. This dynamic growth has boosted real incomes, broadened and deepened the technological capabilities of the industrial sector, and contained inflationary pressures. Business confidence strengthened in 1994, and export demand picked up in the Asia-Pacific region, resulting in 6.2% growth. Growth continued strong in 1995, but tailed off in 1996. Inflation remains among the lowest in the industrial world. Per capita GDP now is up to the levels of the big West European economies.
GDP: purchasing power parity - $65.6 billion (1996 est.)
GDP - real growth rate: 2.8% (1996 est.)
GDP - per capita: purchasing power parity - $18,500 (1996 est.)
GDP - composition by sector: agriculture: 7.3% industry: 25.9% services : 66.8% (1990)
Inflation rate - consumer price index: 2.8% (1996 est.)
Labor force: total : 1,634,500 (September 1995) by occupation: services 64.6%, industry 25.0%, agriculture 10.4% (1994)