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The NewZealand Story

Arcade

Arcade

The goal of each level is to safely get Tiki through the level, avoiding enemy fire and spikes, and rescue one of his kiwi friends at the end. The weaponry starts out as arrows, but pickups can change these into bombs, lasers, or bouncing fireballs. These act a little differently, and what is use...

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Developer
Taito

Released on
1988

Size
1–2 Players

Version
Arcade

Requirements
Arcade

Downloads
Platform

ESRB Rating
Not Rated

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Description

The goal of each level is to safely get Tiki through the level, avoiding enemy fire and spikes, and rescue one of his kiwi friends at the end. The weaponry starts out as arrows, but pickups can change these into bombs, lasers, or bouncing fireballs. These act a little differently, and what is useful depends upon the player’s location. A distinctive feature of this game is the ability to ride a variety of flying vehicles, including balloons, blimps, and UFOs. Vehicles can be found ready for use or can be stolen from an enemy.

The NewZealand Story

Overview & History

Released by Taito in 1988, The NewZealand Story is a vibrant, deceptively challenging arcade classic that stars Tiki, a courageous, sneaker-wearing kiwi bird. The whimsical narrative begins when a giant blue leopard seal named Wally kidnaps Tiki's beloved girlfriend Phiphi and his flock of kiwi friends, scattering them across various zoos throughout New Zealand. Players must guide Tiki through expansive, maze-like levels themed after real-world geographic locations, including the Auckland Zoo, Rotorua's geothermal parks, and the icy caverns of the Tasman Glacier. Tiki's ultimate goal in each stage is to find and break open the cage of one of his trapped companions before a deadly invincible ghost appears to claim his life.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard linear platformers of its era, this game emphasizes vertical exploration, hidden warp zones, and multi-directional scrolling. Tiki begins his quest armed with a basic bow and infinite arrows, but he can upgrade his arsenal by defeating specific enemies to claim explosive bombs, bouncing fireballs, and rapid-fire laser guns. A defining, highly strategic mechanic is the vehicle theft system: Tiki can shoot enemies piloting hot air balloons, floating swan vessels, or mini-UFOs and hijack their rides to navigate treacherous spike pits and reach high platforms. Tiki must also manage a dwindling oxygen meter during tight underwater swimming sequences, where he can spit swallowed water to stun marine foes. Tapping the jump button repeatedly activates Tiki's wing-flutter, slowing his descent for precise platforming.