We have all seen the impressive vistas of New Zealand thanks to the Lord of the Rings trilogy and hence recognise that this country is one of the most stunningly beautiful and magical in the world. The number of microclimates allows the traveller to see changes to the landscape that take hours instead of days like in Europe. This is probably one of the reasons why so many are choosing to emigrate to New Zealand, but what are the other reasons for beginning a new life in this awesome country?

Some historians argue that emigration to New Zealand is not a new thing. Originally travellers from areas in Indonesia used boats to spread across the South Pacific and at that point around, seven to eight hundred years ago they landed in New Zealand. Today the lure of travelling to this brilliant set of islands remains powerful; powerful enough to attract people to settle down and stay.

During the nineteenth century, and the height of British imperial power many Britons decided to take the long voyage down under to reside on the islands. Since this period those deciding to emigrate have increased; today it is not just Britons who wish to emigrate, Indians, South Africans and other Europeans also want to live in New Zealand. After the Second World War, emigration levels exploded as many saw the country as a far more preferable option to living in war torn Europe.

The economy of the country is also a powerful lure for many who wish to emigrate. It is well developed and seems to be progressing rather well. Estimates of the country's GDP sit at around one hundred and six million dollars (NZ); this relates to a per capita share of around twenty six thousand dollars. Subsequently the way of living and quality of life in the country can be considered great.

Additionally, the economy of the country is constantly striving to attract skilled migrants to the islands' shores. The fields in which these skilled migrants are needed range from the medical professions to the electronic and information technology industries. It is hoped by the country's government that by attracting these skilled workers the economy will be improved and subsequently the society in general will feel the benefits.

Currently the population of New Zealand sits at around the four million mark, meaning that for those who wish to emigrate, there is still plenty of wide open space. English is the predominant language and understandably this attracts many Britons as there will be no language barrier should they wish to reside in the country. Fundamentally this means migrants can settle quickly into the Kiwi way of life and culture.

In terms of culture Kiwis are huge fans of sport and in general love the outdoors and spending time in the countryside. Like many ex-commonwealth countries, sports such as rugby, football and cricket are extremely popular amongst the population. Additionally with a large number of mountainous regions skiing and snowboarding resorts are in abundance meaning that winter sports are also popular. As the country is so beautiful it is understandable that the locals love to spend time on the beach and in the mountains; as far as a healthy lifestyle goes, Kiwis can be seen as well up there.

Hopefully this information has given an insight into why so many people decide to emigrate to New Zealand. Its astonishing scenery combined with a healthy and fulfilling way of life attracts many, while the relative comfort of the economy and society is also a powerful lure. With so many attractions it is easy to understand why so many make the move down under.