ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Coastal fortifications of New Zealand

Coastal fortifications in New Zealand are like giant castles that protect the coast from enemies who might try to attack the country. Just like you might build a fort out of pillows to protect yourself from imaginary monsters, New Zealand built bigger forts to protect themselves from real-life monsters called enemies.

These forts were mostly built during World War II, when people were worried that Japan might try to attack New Zealand's coastline. The forts were strategically placed in areas where enemies might try to land on the coast. They were built using concrete and steel, and they had big guns and other weapons on top of them to shoot at enemy ships.

Some of the forts were tucked away in the cliffs, so they were hard to see from the sea. Others were built on top of big hills, so they had a clear view of the surrounding area. The people who worked at the forts were trained soldiers who were responsible for defending the country and making sure everyone was safe.

Nowadays, these forts are still standing, but they are no longer used for military purposes. Some of them have been turned into museums, where people can learn about New Zealand's history and the important role these forts played in protecting the country during World War II. Some of them are also popular tourist attractions, where people can explore the bunkers and tunnels and see the big guns and other weapons that were used to defend the coasts.