For many high school students thinking about studying abroad, this trip will be their first big trip without their parents. While New Zealand has its own unique and fascinating culture, the fact that it is an English speaking, western culture may make it an easier transition for teen travelers.

Popular high school programs in Queenstown. Students looking for outdoor adventure have come to the right place. In addition to hiking, snorkeling, and skiing, high school students in New Zealand can learn about marine biology and permaculture. Interested in giving back? Try a community service program and learn about Queenstown and its environs by volunteering. Students interested in developing a home away from home might consider a homestay, where you’ll become part of your Kiwi family and experience real life in New Zealand.

How long are typical high school programs in Queenstown? Looking for an adventure but not yet ready to spend a whole year away from home? Try a high school summer program in New Zealand, where there are several companies organizing programs for students to experience the best of New Zealand for a few weeks at a time. Not all high schools will accept transfer credit from a study abroad program so shorter programs have the added benefit of not interrupting your studies. The downside to only spending a few weeks in New Zealand is the travel time: it takes roughly a full day in each direction. This means you need to ration your airplane movies because there might not be new ones by the time you are ready to return home. Don’t let the travel time deter you though because once you’ve landed, you’ll dive right into your program and your summer will fly by in a blur of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and adrenaline rushes.

Longer programs allow you to settle into your new home at a slower, deeper pace. Spending up to a year in Queenstown will give you the opportunity to live like the locals do and learn more about the intricacies of local culture and traditions. There are several program options that help students enroll in a local school for a semester, trimester, or whole year. Find out how high school differs for Kiwi teens versus North American teens during your high school exchange program.