There are 45 million sheep in New Zealand and only 3.8 million people. It is a little more than 100,000 square miles in size which is about twice the size of Michigan. It consists of two main islands and many smaller ones. It would stretch from Florida to Michigan, if it were set in this continent. There are elevations from near sea level to over 12,000 feet.
Hilly land predominates but there are significant areas of level plains.
Much of the soil is of volcanic origin mixed with glacial activity in some areas. The rainfall varies from semi-arid to nearly 300 inches in a few areas along the west coast of the South Island. Consequently, the growing conditions can vary greatly, sometimes within a very short distance. Generally there is year long grazing on the North Island and in some areas of the South Island. The New Zealanders have become experts in growing and utilizing pastures.