Culture Study Abroad Programs in New Zealand

At NMIT I had the opportunity to meet many students from all around the world. I made many great friends for a life time on the other side of the globe of my home country. It was definitively a once in a life time experience. Both Nelson and the rest of the country was also incredibly beautiful and likely had the most interesting nature I have ever seen.

Studying abroad in New Zealand was truly a life-changing experience. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the breathtaking beauty of the country, from its green hills to its crystal-clear lakes and majestic mountains. Exploring iconic locations, including some famous for being filming sites, added a extra touch to the journey. These natural wonders alone were enough to make the experience unforgettable, but my time there went far beyond sightseeing. One of the most valuable aspects of this experience was the opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures. I also learned a lot about myself, gaining a deeper understanding of my interest, adaptability, and curiosity. The academic environment was equally transformative. The teaching methods and perspectives at my host school broadened my vision, challenging me to think beyond the frameworks I had been accustomed to back home. Engaging with peers from various cultural and academic backgrounds helped me develop new ways of thinking and collaborating. Sharing adventures, celebrating milestones, and simply enjoying each other’s company created memories that are deeply etched in my heart. Whether it was hiking through stunning landscapes or playing some games, every moment felt special. I wholeheartedly recommend studying abroad in New Zealand to anyone considering it. It’s a chance to discover a stunningly beautiful country, embrace cultural diversity, and develop yourself. My time there has left an indelible mark on me, and I will always look back on it with immense gratitude and joy.

I had an amazing time in Auckland! We did a lot of cool trips as a group and it was great to have such a fun group of students to experience this with! My accommodations were only 3 minutes away from my building and I had amazing roommates from around the world! Overall, I got to meet a lot of locals and travel around the country. If I ever needed help figuring out travel plans, my advisor was always available to offer some advice! I even had my wisdom teeth removed which was completely covered under the travel insurance! The trip was amazing and I hope to go back to New Zealand soon.

My semester abroad in Nelson, New Zealand, was an unforgettable experience. The people here are incredibly warm and welcoming. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with kindness, and the openness of the locals made me feel at home right away. At the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT), the atmosphere was supportive and encouraging, fostering both academic and personal growth. The natural beauty of New Zealand, however, left the deepest impression on me. Nelson, surrounded by breathtaking national parks, offered endless opportunities for exploration. Highlights included hiking in Abel Tasman National Park and visiting the Nelson Lakes, where I was struck by the serene landscapes. I was also lucky enough to see dolphins and penguins in the wild. This experience not only broadened my academic horizons but also strengthened my connection to nature. New Zealand is a place I will always cherish and want to revisit.

My name is Jesse, I am a Dutch student who has been lucky enough to study at NMIT in Nelson for six months. I will recommend to anyone who is thinking of studying there to go and do so. The people there are very friendly, the courses are well structured and you will be provided with all the necessary resources to pass every part of every course. A lot of activities are provided for students and you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Nelson. So, the only thing I have left to say is: TAKE ME BACK PLEASE.

My time in Auckland was sureal and it's something I will never forget. TEAN was very helpful in finding accommodations, and my RA was easy to talk to whenever I needed help. She planned fun excursions, and most of these excursions ended up being my favorite things during the entire semester. We went to Queenstown for orientation, and Cathedral Cove as the semester started to close. We also had lunch dates, coffee catch-ups, and comedy nights. My RA was also very straight forward in this being "an edu-cation experience as much as it is a va-cation experience" and that stuck with me. I may have focused more on my academics than having fun, but the classes I took genually interest me, so I was having fun while studying. Overall, this was a great experience, and I could not have done it without TEAN! Enjoy this picture I took with other study abroad students who were chosen to be apart of a promotional photoshoot for UOA (I'm the one in the green shirt with a snake).

New Zealand honestly exceeded my expectations. The country in itself is BEAUTIFUL. Auckland is obviously more of a city, but it's on the water and has lots of parks so you still feel close to nature! Getting to other parts of the country is really simple, with plenty of cheap flights and busses. I really enjoyed the housing accommodation, living apartment style with two other flatmates. The University of Auckland campus is nice as well, very blended into the city but still with a campus feel. Auckland has a lot of good food with a wide variety. I really enjoyed how easily we could walk downtown and find new cafes and restaurants!

I felt so taken care of by TEAN and I had such a great time abroad! I met people that will be my lifelong friends through TEAN and I feel so lucky to have been a part of such an amazing program. The program directors were always available to talk and we met up quite often as a group, which I liked. New Zealand is amazing and I had the time of my life living there!

Studying abroad in Auckland allowed me to explore a new city and have easy access to nature and neighboring countries. My program allowed me to meet amazing people and my housing was great. I had the opportunity to live with two girls from New Zealand and form friendships with people from Auckland, other cities within New Zealand, and even with people from other countries. I got to experience life on the other side of the world and could have not imagined a better experience. I would highly recommend studying abroad in Auckland, New Zealand!

I had the most wonderful time studying abroad in Wellington. Vic U is a great institution with plenty of courses to choose from, an active student life, and supportive staff. Wellington itself is a vibrant city with amazing food tons of things to do and wonderful people.

I highly recommend every student to pull every string possible to study abroad. My personal bias is to do so in New Zealand. I fell in love with the country of New Zealand and grew more in this past semester than I have in my entire college experience. Studying abroad gives one the opportunity to be exposed to many new phenomenons of life. Studying abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone forcing much growth in my personal confidence while providing me the opportunity to explore my role in the greater scheme of the world. While quite intimidating, this exploration was freeing and exciting realizing that one could spend lifetimes exploring. Studying through TEAN gave me the privilege to explore on my own will having comfort in having the support of an onsite staff and community of other students in your same position. Our onsite director was so excited to share the Kiwi culture with us, from dinners to Rugby games she was more than willing to provide in suggestions for various activities. Additionally, due to the size of my field of study I was able to make friends that I am confident that I will stay in touch with for years to come. Every student should take the opportunity to study abroad. And if for nothing else, go for The Lord of The Rings sitings!

I highly recommend every student to pull every string possible to study abroad. My personal bias is to do so in New Zealand. I fell in love with the country of New Zealand and grew more this past semester than I have in my entire college experience. Studying abroad gives one the opportunity to be exposed to many new aspects of life. Studying abroad pushed me out of my comfort zone forcing much growth in my personal confidence while providing me the opportunity to explore my role in the greater scheme of the world. While quite intimidating, this exploration was freeing and exciting realizing that one could spend lifetimes exploring. Studying through TEAN gave me the privilege to explore on my own while enjoying the comfort of having the support of an onsite staff and community of other students in your same position. Our onsite director was so excited to share the Kiwi culture with us, from dinners to Rugby games she was more than willing to provide suggestions for various activities. Additionally, due to the size of my field of study I was able to make friends that I am confident that I will stay in touch with for years to come. Every student should take the opportunity to study abroad. And if for nothing else go for The Lord of The Rings sightings!

TEAN Abroad made going abroad to the other side of the world incredibly comfortable and easy! Everything from pre-departure planning to cultural immersion in your host city is made easier by TEAN Abroad. The mix of academics and amazing experiences that TEAN abroad helps you experience is unmatched by anyone. Definitely choose TEAN for your abroad experience!!!

I wouldn't change anything about my experience studying abroad in Auckland. Growing up in a small, rural town, I was worried I would be overwhelmed by the big city, but everyone I met made me feel so welcomed and I never felt unsafe. Auckland definitely isn't for everyone if you want to be more consistently immersed in New Zealand's stunning countryside, but getting out of the city rush is very easy and the entire Auckland region and surrounding regions are full of natural beauty. The public transportation within the city is great and there are plenty of affordable bus charters that will take you around the whole north island, and getting to the south island is only a 1-2 hour flight. ISA also provides excellent cultural experiences to help students adjust to the New Zealand lifestyle, as well as fantastic weekend trips throughout the semester. Highly recommend this program.

I studied abroad in Spring of 2019 for Trimester 1 at Victoria University Wellington in New Zealand. I usually try my very best to not have expectations before going into things, so that way I can experience whatever was meant to happen to its fullest, and I have to say, even if I had expectations this program and this experience would've blown them out of the water. With AIFS a single all-inclusive fee paid for my tuition, housing, insurance, most meals, excursions, and travel. I opted in for the travel payment because I also went to Fiji through the optional Pacific Studies program and I didn't want the flights to get too overcomplicated. I spent my first week abroad in Fiji doing a cultural immersion/university learning program, and it included going to the University of the South Pacific for lectures on a few of the days and basking in the beauty of Fiji for the rest. We spent our last day at a resort, which, needless to say, was stunning. In New Zealand, I was able to go to many different parts of the country through AIFS-funded excursions. From visiting the studio where LOTR was made, to relaxing in a Polynesian hot spa, I really felt like I was able to see New Zealand. In addition, the city that I stayed in was right on the coast, so the ocean was literally just a few minutes' walk from my house. Once I even saw a shark just swimming around! I could really go on about how amazing my time was, and how much I'm looking forward to returning one day to continue my adventures, but I will just say that choosing to study abroad in Wellington, New Zealand through AIFS (with the optional Pacific Studies program) was the best decision of my life, and I highly highly recommend to any and everyone who is able.

Going abroad with TEAN was one of the best decisions I have made. Because I had never been outside of the United States, the idea of going abroad made me nervous. TEAN helped me adjust and become comfortable with my surroundings. I am so happy I chose TEAN!

Deciding to travel abroad is a beautiful first step in the right direction towards adventure, independence, and growth. If you are having a difficult time deciding on a study abroad location or program well I am here to report that you will have a glorious experience with The Education Abroad Network at AUT University. I spent many days deciding which city in New Zealand that I wanted to be centered in for school and to pursue my academics, but I ultimately decided the city is where I wanted to explore. Auckland provides an upbeat social scene with city events and happenings occurring on the daily! After finishing class for the day, I found myself trying a new eatery, checking out thrift shops, hiking to Mt. Eden, going on coastal runs, attending a poetry slam, listening to street performers, and so on! These are just some of the few things I did close to my new home for the four months I was abroad. Of course, one of the main reasons you are going to NZ is to witness its scenery and awe-inspiring landscapes as well. There are several outdoor destinations accessible via transportation from Auckland. On the weekends and during the mid-semester break were when I planned larger trips with new friends and peers that I met in my program, through my dorm, or in my classes. TEAN does a beautiful job in getting students acquainted with others in their program during orientation which is held in Queenstown of the South Island. Here, you have the opportunity to meet peers who will become your support system. During orientation, you have the chance to ask all of your questions about the country you will be living in. All initial concerns can be addressed before students then disperse to their chosen universities all across the country. At my university, I was close with my new TEAN buddies and I became quickly acquainted with international students and locals living in the dorms at the Wellesley Student Apartments. Being in a diverse city, I was thrilled to meet so many different people! I am very grateful to have met amazing individuals from across the globe and explore sights I could only dream of. TEAN does an amazing job in keeping you updated and informed about all that NZ has to offer while guiding you to do so in a smart and safe manner. The courses at AUT were great and if you are looking to learn about the Maori culture then take the International Noho Marae course! I loved it and gained a family through this course!

So you want to go abroad? I am beyond excited for you! If you have the desire to explore New Zealand with The Education Abroad Network, well then I am here to tell you that you are in for a spectacular journey! I had no idea where I wanted to be centered for study abroad, but I would like to share with you all the glorious reasons Auckland proved itself a suburb place to be centered. I was drawn to New Zealand due to the country's scenic beauty and rich culture. I ultimately chose Auckland as it is the diversity hotspot of the country. Going to classes in the city and having the opportunity to explore all the events or happenings that the city has to offer made for a very social scene! I was quick to make friends who I would later journey with on the weekends and during the mid-semester break. I know the transition may sound daunting, but I must say TEAN does an excellent job in assisting you with this change! The beginning of your experience starts with TEAN students and staff in Queenstown where you explore the South Island city and meet other people in the same program as you. This week helps establish a network of friends who are just like you and it allows you to learn who your support system will be for the next few months. After you make these connections, you disperse to your school of choice with those attending the same university as you and your adventure in the North Island will begin! Auckland will not disappoint as there is always something to do. When I wasn't in class I spent my days exploring the city at weekly farmers' markets, running along the coast, finding a new restaurant to try, or planning my next out-of-city adventure with friends! Since the city and school are both so diverse, you'll have the opportunity to meet both local and international students! If I can offer advice to you is that any abroad experience depends on you! If you have the urge to journey in a beautiful country, make new friends, learn about a new culture, and learn more about your growing independent self well then Auckland is ready for you and TEAN will be by your side every step of the way!

I could not have asked for a more life-changing or positive experience than the one I had with TEAN (as cliche as that might sound). While abroad, I grew as an outdoorswoman, aspiring ecologist and independent adult. I could not have done so without the aid of the incredible TEAN staff, who were there for every step of the way! They helped me fill out all the required forms (such as my student visa) and find and acquire affordable housing. Once in Auckland, they were just a message or coffee outing away if I ever needed help or someone to chat with. The orientation in Queenstown was a unique experience, where I got a headstart in making friends that would be studying all over New Zealand. It featured a well-organized day trip to Milford Sound, where I got my first indication that I had ended up exactly where I needed to be. If you have the opportunity to abroad with TEAN, take full advantage because you will definitely not regret it!

API was a fantastic program to work with!! The pre-departure material was comprehensive and made me confident starting life in a new country. Housing was included in the cost of the program and API took care of setting up the living situation. I was in a co-ed "flat" style living, which is similar to student housing, with people from all across the world. It was a unique experience to live with people from different backgrounds and integrate our experiences, living styles, cooking preferences, and personalities. API provided multiple excursions within the program which allowed me to see amazing places I probably would not have seen otherwise! These excursions fostered friendships and typically included a meal, always a bonus for a student! API went above and beyond to ensure us students were taken care of and had the assistance necessary to thrive in a new environment. There was an international education adviser on campus we had access to as API program members. Everything from housing, travel, and education was seamless through the help of API. Terrific program, and I would recommend to anyone looking for a new experience in a vibrant country!! So much beauty and culture to explore, let the adventure begin!