New Zealand Life and Culture

New Zealand is a small independent island nation renowned for its stunning scenery and Maori culture. It is a modern, sophisticated and technologically advanced nation. It is one of the world’s most affordable English speaking destinations. They are also one among the most racially tolerant, welcoming all ethnicities and religion. The influence of Pacific Island, Asian and European immigrants during recent times has helped shape New Zealand into vibrant and diverse multicultural society. Both North and South Island boast a range of unique cities with a dazzling array of culture and entertainment on offer.

With a low population density, all New Zealanders and visitors have great access to a wide range of sporting facilities, such as golf courses and other cultural and recreation centres. New Zealanders' adventurous spirit is contagious and with an abundance of natural beauty scattered across the North and South Island, it's hard to resist the local outdoor sports. New Zealand is the home of bungee jumping and zorbing, after all.

New Zealand is world famous for the variety of its beautiful environment. The diverse scenery includes impressive mountainous areas, fertile farmland, as well as beautiful coastlines with stunning sandy beaches. Water sports are particularly popular in New Zealand.

As an international student in New Zealand you'll enjoy a varied lifestyle and a safe, friendly environment while you study. The local people are renowned for their hospitality and the warm Kiwi welcome extends to everyone.

Work hard and play hard is the lifestyle choice of many international students in New Zealand. It is increasingly being recognized for its excellent study opportunities. You may choose to study in a modern city with the shopping, multicultural restaurants, night clubs, live theatre, art galleries, museums, sports stadiums and all the hustle and bustle. Or perhaps you prefer the slower pace of the rural areas, where you'll find supportive communities, access to the farmlands and orchards.

New Zealand has an internationally reputed education system providing quality education. It offers a safe learning environment with excellent study opportunities and support services for international students. New Zealand produces top graduates who can take their place with confidence in the international arena in many disciplines.

There are eight government-funded universities providing undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses and each university has its own specialized courses. New Zealand is internationally recognized for its excellent education standards.

New Zealand provides world-class education and training, along with new experiences, fun, relaxed lifestyle and a safe and healthy environment.

Getting Around New Zealand

New Zealand regions are linked by a network of domestic airlines, buses and trains. It’s easy to explore the country in your breaks from studying. Full time students are provided with a lot of concessions in their travelling expenses. In New Zealand, walking is very popular. You will probably be living next to your institutions which will enable you to easily walk to classes.

Air travel is another popular option. You can fly to the main centres and many smaller cities and tourist destinations. Distances are generally short - the flight from Auckland to Wellington only takes an hour. Full time students with an ISIC card or Youth Card (under 25), is given discounts by the STA Travels.

The Interislander, Bluebridge and Lynx ferries link the North and South Islands, carrying passengers and vehicles between Wellington and Picton several times a day. Commuter ferries cross Auckland and Wellington harbours and scenic cruises are popular in many places.

In most cities, buses run at least every 30 minutes. Auckland and Wellington also have commuter rail services. 10-trip and monthly passes offer the cheapest fares. Shuttle buses between different campuses within the same city are operated by large institutions.

Bikes and Motorcycles are a great way to get around New Zealand’s compact cities and towns. You must be 15 and have a license to ride a motorcycle. Using cars can be very enjoyable and great way to explore. Rental cars are plentiful and are very convenient.