Peace reigns supreme

New Zealand has been named the most peaceful nation for the second year running in the fourth annual Global Peace Index (GPI). Compiled by global think tank Institute for Economics and Peace, the report looks at the relationship between economic development, business and peace and examines key areas of conflict, safety, security and military factors in 149 countries. New Zealand took out the top spot because of its political stability, safety and harmonious relations with neighbouring countries like Australia, which came in at number 19 in the poll. New Zealand was followed by Iceland and Japan in the poll, while Austria and Norway rounded out the top five.