Diplomatic representation in the US: chief of mission: Ambassador L. John WOOD chancery: 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 328-4800 FAX: [1] (202) 667-5227 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, New York
Diplomatic representation from the US:
chief of mission: Ambassador Charles J. SWINDELLS
embassy: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington
mailing address: P. O. Box 1190, Wellington; PSC 467, Box 1, APO AP
96531-1034
telephone: [64] (4) 462-6000
FAX: [64] (4) 499-0490
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 New Zealand
Economy - overview:
Over the past 20 years the government has transformed New Zealand
from an agrarian economy dependent on concessionary British market
access to a more industrialized, free market economy that can
compete globally. This dynamic growth has boosted real incomes (but
left behind many at the bottom of the ladder), broadened and
deepened the technological capabilities of the industrial sector,
and contained inflationary pressures. Per capita income has risen
for six consecutive years and is now more than $23,000 in purchasing
power parity terms. New Zealand is heavily dependent on trade -
particularly in agricultural products - to drive growth. Exports are
equal to about 20% of GDP. Thus far the economy has been resilient,
and the Labor Government promises that expenditures on health,
education, and pensions will increase proportionately to output.
GDP (purchasing power parity):
$92.51 billion (2004 est.)
GDP - real growth rate:
4.8% (2004 est.)
GDP - per capita:
purchasing power parity - $23,200 (2004 est.)
GDP - composition by sector: agriculture: 4.6% industry: 27.4% services: 68% (2004 est.)
Labor force:
2.05 million (2004 est.)