Studying Abroad in New Zealand – Things to Know

Are you considering studying abroad in New Zealand? So you desire a non-traditional study abroad feel, filled with alfresco explorations and environmental studies alike. The mountains are calling out to you, and your mind is set on New Zealand.

Before flying to this picturesque and lesser-visited study abroad country, here are some things you should know before studying abroad in New Zealand.

You’ll Need to Pack for Chilly Weather

One feature of New Zealand is that sometimes you can experience all four seasons in one day. When getting ready for your journey to the “land of the long white cloud”, be sure to pack sweaters, a rain jacket, and coated everyday wear.

As it is located in one the most mountainous areas in the world, anticipate to experience weather that usually ranges from the 50s to low 70s all through the year, with a possibility of sporadic rain. New Zealand weather also have a tendency to be cooler in the south than in the north, and the chilliest period of the year there is between June and August.

Something vital to keep in mind is that the higher the height above sea level, the cooler the temperature, which implies you’ll need to pack warmer clothing for your walks and outdoor events outside of the city limits.

There Are Only 8 Universities in New Zealand

Given the size of New Zealand, you might be astounded to find out that there are only eight universities in the whole country, spanning across the two islands.

Scholars looking to submerge themselves in a “state university” type feel similar to that of the Big 10 in the U.S. can choose from Auckland University of Technology, University of Auckland, Massey University, University of Otago or Victoria University of Wellington. These universities range from 17,000 – 33,000 students.

For more of a private university experience, candidates can think about Lincoln University, University of Waikato, or University of Canterbury, ranging from 3,000 – 12,000 students.

You Can Enjoy Studying Abroad in New Zealand without Breaking the Bank

At the moment, 1 USD is equal to 1.52 NZD, but there are a lot of ways to keep money in your wallet. Usually, a meal should not cost you up to $15, and a lot of program options include meals with host families. Several day nature expositions can oftentimes cost a heavy fee, but typically, a day hike at a national park is without cost, as well as camping, unless otherwise specified.

Cities tend to be costly, no matter what nation you’re in, but Auckland and Wellington have a lot of free social events, festivals, and oftentimes promotional student entrance fees to museums. Here’s an analysis on the cost of studying abroad in New Zealand with additional information.

The Cities Are Bustling

The capital of New Zealand, Wellington, is the southern-most capital city globally. There, you’ll find the government centre of operations like the Parliament and Supreme Court, as well as a lot of big businesses, universities, and cultural centres like operas, museums, ballets, and archives.

Auckland, situated on the North Island is the largest city in New Zealand. Up to the present time, Auckland also has the largest Polynesian population globally. A city of two harbors, bordered by hilly rainforests, Auckland was in recent times named one of the world’s most liveable cities, as stated by the Economist’s World’s Most Livable Cities index from 2015.

Certainly, there are other cities in New Zealand to visit or study in, like Christchurch in Canterbury, Tauranga in Bay of Plenty, Hamilton in Waikato, and Napier-Hastings in Hawk’s Bay.

Get Ready for a Different Type of BBQ

Are you a fan of open fire BBQ? Then you’ll love Kiwi cuisine! Comprising fresh vegetables and local farm to table meat, food in New Zealand is organic, healthy, and tasty.

For special events like festivals and other cultural occasions, Kiwis will oftentimes divert to their Māori roots by cooking traditionally making use of hāngi methods, by digging a hole in the ground, heating up stones, and slow cooking everything directly in the fire pit. It’s completely safe and adds an extra charred taste to the food.

Now that you have gotten the sense of what you should know about studying abroad in New Zealand, check out the scholarship opportunities listed on our website, apply for a scholarship, and start getting ready for your immersive Kiwi experience!

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