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These pages contain the original text of the Tertiary Education Strategy documents. Only edit content if you notice the text is inconsistent with the final published document. Feel free to develop your own cross references and index structure. New Zealand in the WorldNew Zealand’s geographic position, its geological and biological evolution, and its history of human settlement all contribute to a unique context that defines how New Zealand’s development will differ from that of other nations. New Zealand is geologically diverse and active, is isolated from other landmasses, stretches from the subtropical Kermadec Islands in the north to the subantarctic islands in the south, and is surrounded by the fourth largest Exclusive Economic Zone in the world. This gives us unique animals and plants, and spectacular landscapes and seascapes. It also gives us a diversity of climates, habitats and soils, creating strong comparative advantages for our biologically-based economy. New Zealand has a low population density, so that large parts of the country remain dominated by native vegetation. This enables New Zealanders to enjoy a lifestyle that is the envy of many countries. Importantly, the comparative advantages that make this landmass a wonderful place to grow plants and animals also combine, with our low population density, to make this country a wonderful place in which to live, and in which to holiday. These features have led to contrasting factors: on the one hand, to relative isolation, separation and a distinct identity, and on the other, to a nation of people with an outward focus, international linkages and a willingness to learn from other cultures. However, the world is becoming a smaller place. Communications and transportation are now world-wide and rapid. International trade is expansive. This globalisation brings open and competitive international labour markets, and increased migration. Most activities and endeavours within New Zealand are now exposed to international competition. This is happening against a background of accelerating technological change, which means it is important to shorten the gap between the availability of new technologies and their uptake within society. Underlying globalisation and technological change places an importance on new knowledge and skills, and their application. The countries that retain or achieve first-world living standards will be those that respond proactively to these trends. For New Zealand, there are new opportunities for achieving prosperity by applying our skills and knowledge on the increasingly accessible global stage. « The New Zealand Context | Index | Economic Transformation » |
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