Dutch explorer Abel Tasman saw and sailed near New Zealand in 1642, but significant European contact probably started with Captain Cook's three voyages to the country from 1769-79. With the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand became a British colony in 1840.
Even though New Zealand became an independent member of the British Commonwealth almost a century ago, all government functions reflect the strong British influence, and many people say "Kiwis," as New Zealanders are nicknamed, speak with a British accent. They, of course, insist that it's a New Zealand accent.
