Gap Year Programs in Nelson,New Zealand

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

Find your leadership style on the South Island! Make the outdoors your classroom. Breathe in the salt air and watch the sunrise as you get ready for a day of sea kayaking. Listen for the call of the kea mountain parrot as you backpack through New Zealand’s rugged mountains and lush valleys. Learn to travel on snow and ice while traversing rugged peaks and sweeping snowfields. Paddle a canoe through whitewater rapids and spectacular river gorges. Meet members of a local Maori community at a marae, or meetinghouse, and learn about their way of life, past and present. As you gain confidence on the water and in the mountains, identify and hone your personal leadership style. Trying an activity like sea kayaking for the first time might be your opportunity to develop self-awareness and discover a lifelong love of the ocean. Leading your team across challenging mountain terrain might be a pivotal moment in learning effective communication and tolerance for adversity. At the end of your course, head home with deep friendships, lasting memories, and the skills to lead in the wilderness and beyond.