Meaning: The quote "New Zealand is a country of thirty thousand million sheep, three million of whom think they are human" by Barry Humphries, the Australian entertainer, is a playful and satirical observation about New Zealand's sheep population and the perception of some of its inhabitants. The quote is often cited in discussions about New Zealand's cultural identity and its relationship with its natural environment.

New Zealand is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, which include vast expanses of rolling green hills populated by a significant number of sheep. In fact, the country has one of the highest sheep-to-human ratios in the world, with approximately six sheep for every person. This abundance of sheep has become a defining feature of New Zealand's national identity and is often humorously referenced in popular culture and media.

Barry Humphries' quote draws attention to the sheer magnitude of the sheep population in New Zealand by using the exaggerated figure of thirty thousand million, which effectively highlights the overwhelming presence of sheep in the country. However, the quote takes on a more humorous tone as it suggests that three million of these sheep think they are human. This playful anthropomorphism of the sheep population serves as a lighthearted commentary on the close relationship between the people of New Zealand and their iconic woolly counterparts.

The quote can be interpreted in a number of ways, and one common reading is that it humorously characterizes the unique bond between New Zealanders and their natural environment. By attributing human-like qualities to a fraction of the sheep population, Humphries playfully suggests that some of the animals have integrated themselves so closely into New Zealand's society that they have adopted human traits. This humorous anthropomorphism serves as a nod to the cultural significance of sheep in New Zealand and the affection and familiarity with which they are regarded.

Furthermore, the quote can also be viewed as a light-hearted commentary on the down-to-earth and unpretentious nature of New Zealanders. By suggesting that a portion of the sheep population believes they are human, the quote playfully highlights the relaxed and unassuming attitude that is often associated with the people of New Zealand. It conveys a sense of self-awareness and humility, as it embraces the country's rural heritage and the integral role that agriculture, particularly sheep farming, has played in shaping its identity.

In conclusion, Barry Humphries' quote "New Zealand is a country of thirty thousand million sheep, three million of whom think they are human" captures the playful and affectionate relationship between New Zealand and its iconic sheep population. It serves as a lighthearted reflection of the country's cultural identity, highlighting the close connection between its people and the natural environment. Through its humorous anthropomorphism, the quote celebrates the endearing quirks of New Zealand's rural landscape and its inhabitants, while also acknowledging the country's unassuming and down-to-earth character.