Kiribati is a country in Oceania / Pacific, Oceania with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Kiribati that most people don't know.
Kiribati is the first country to see the New Year — it moved its time zone to UTC+14 to ensure its eastern islands are on the same date as the west. The country faces an existential threat from rising sea levels — its average elevation is just 2 metres.
Kiribati is the first country to see the New Year — UTC+14.
The average elevation of Kiribati is just 2 metres above sea level.
Kiribati spans more longitude than any other country — wider than the continental US.
Tarawa Atoll was the site of one of WWII's bloodiest Pacific battles.
Kiribati is the first country to see the New Year — it moved its time zone to UTC+14 to ensure its eastern islands are on the same date as the west. The country faces an existential threat from rising sea levels — its average elevation is just 2 metres.
Kiribati is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
Site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific — 1,000 US Marines died in 76 hours in 1943
The first place on Earth to enter the new millennium — a remote, uninhabited coral atoll
UNESCO world's largest marine protected area — one of the most pristine coral ecosystems
The stunning blue lagoon of the capital atoll — surrounded by traditional villages
Kiribati is the first country to see the New Year — it moved its time zone to UTC+14 to ensure its eastern islands are on the same date as the west. The country faces an existential threat from rising sea levels — its average elevation is just 2 metres.
The capital of Kiribati is South Tarawa.
Kiribati has a population of approximately 119K.
The official languages of Kiribati are English / Gilbertese.
Kiribati gained independence in 1979.
Kiribati uses the Australian Dollar (AUD).