New Zealand is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consisting of two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, along with numerous smaller islands. Its diverse physical geography features mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines, with the Southern Alps dominating the South Island. The country is known for its unique ecosystems, which include both temperate rainforests and alpine environments. Geologically, New Zealand sits on the boundary of the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates, resulting in significant seismic activity and a variety of landforms. The region's natural history is rich, with many endemic species, including the kiwi bird, shaped by millions of years of isolation and evolution.