Culture Study Abroad Programs in New Zealand

New Zealand's two islands are divided by Cook Strait. The North Island boasts volcanoes, hot springs, mud pools, geysers, and beaches, while the South Island has rugged Alpine mountains, glaciers, and access to activities like swimming with dolphins and whale-watching. By living with a host family and attending a local school in New Zealand (Aotearoa), you’ll get to know why this country is celebrated for its friendliness and breathtaking natural beauty. Experience the casual Kiwi culture and pass your days with plenty of time outdoors, having a family barbecue or hiking to the nearest beach. You’ll be totally immersed in New Zealand society and learn all about its rich and varied culture. This isn’t just a year abroad; it’s an adventure you’ll never forget!

Spend a semester or academic year in Wellington with AIFS Abroad. Earn up to 16 credits studying at Victoria University, choosing between the Full Curriculum Program and the Specialized Study Abroad Program. AIFS Abroad adds a unique academic experience with the optional Pacific Studies Program in Suva, Fiji, for an introduction to the history and culture of the Pacific Region at the University of the South Pacific. Global Leadership and Service Learning opportunities include: • Wellington Plus, an extracurricular certificate program that includes volunteerism, workshops, and seminars. • The Wellington International Leadership Program, a self-paced extracurricular certificate program about global issues, competency, and employability. • International Buddy Program, a friendship and peer support program. Live in a university residence hall and receive a transportation subsidy, which you can use on Wellington's excellent public transportation system. You’ll enjoy cultural and social activities such as: • Guided city walks • Cable car ride over the city • Sporting events like rugby or cricket • Lord of the Rings Tour • A 3-day excursion to Rotorua

The University of Waikato offers a world-class study abroad experience in Hamilton, New Zealand, blending academic excellence with the country’s awe-inspiring natural beauty. Renowned for its innovative teaching and research, the university provides diverse courses in arts, business, environmental sciences, and more. With state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus culture, Waikato stands out as a hub for learning and global connections. This program is ideal for adventurous and open-minded students eager to expand their horizons academically and culturally. Participants gain valuable academic credits while exploring New Zealand’s rich Māori heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Located in Hamilton, a vibrant city in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, the University of Waikato provides an ideal setting for exploration and learning. Hamilton offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty, with riverside walks, a lively arts scene, and easy access to nearby attractions. From the lush landscapes of the Waikato region to iconic destinations like Hobbiton and the Waitomo Caves, every weekend brings new adventures.

With more than 27,000 students, the University of Auckland is New Zealand's largest university as well as its highest-ranked institution. The 55-acre city campus is set in park-like grounds, a mere 5-minute walk from downtown Auckland, a bustling cosmopolitan port city of 1.2 million. Along with a wide range of courses and high academic standards, the university offers students the unique opportunity to enjoy the city's attractions just steps away from campus, as well as stunning natural surroundings and beaches just a short drive or ferry ride away. Students can also take advantage of access to our Auckland-based Resident Director, an exciting educational orientation at the beginning of the semester, optional trips, and more.

Your Arts + Sciences program in Auckland lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a diverse courses at CIEE's partner school, the University of Auckland. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in New Zealand culture. Live and learn in Auckland! Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich Māori heritage, and dynamic blend of cultures. Set between two harbors and surrounded by volcanic hills, Auckland offers a unique balance of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. Whether you're studying the arts or sciences, Auckland provides top-tier academics and a welcoming, multicultural atmosphere. With its vibrant waterfront, diverse cuisine, lush parks, and lively urban culture, Auckland is the perfect place to study abroad.

Wellington is located on the southern tip of the North Island and is New Zealand’s capital city. It is the seat of New Zealand’s government and the headquarters of national organizations such as the New Zealand Stock Exchange, the Reserve Bank, the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa), the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, and the National Opera. Wellington is a cosmopolitan city with a lively personality, well known for its vibrant creative culture fueled by great food, wine, craft beer, coffee, art, events, and festivals. A recent survey by Deutsche Bank named it the world’s most liveable city! A magnet for creative and innovative people, it is also home to film director Peter Jackson’s Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop. Other leading industries include information technology, communication, manufacturing, and biotechnology. Wellington is one of the leading centers for creative industries such as film and computer technologies.

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.

Travel to stunningly beautiful New Zealand and combine learning and adventure! Choose from non-profit, low-cost, direct study programs. These academic-type programs are available all year round and in a range of terms: weekly, monthly, summer, quarterly, semester, and academic year. Plus, stay in low-cost housing on campus or in nearby areas. Overall, avoid expensive, for-profit programs and register directly with a school in New Zealand. After successful completion, you will earn academic credits that are transferable to your home school. These study abroad programs are open to students worldwide. See more details on the NPSA website. Use this website to review and book your study abroad program in New Zealand.

Experience the highlights of New Zealand without taking a break from school. Study at the NMIT, choosing from our campuses in Marlborough and Nelson. Our locations on South Island offer students access to breathtaking scenery and the best outdoor activities! NMIT offers the following subject areas at our Nelson campus: - Art, Media and Design - Business - Computing and Information Technology - Marine Science - Social Work and Counselling - Sport, Recreation and Exercise - Elective courses in Māori Studies, Civil Engineering and Contemporary Music Have the unique opportunity to study a full year of adventure tourism and experience the great outdoors or a single semester in Viticulture and Winemaking on the Marlborough Campus. Our Study Abroad program serves as an easy pathway to enjoy the offers of a region renowned the world over for adventure tourism, winemaking, and other things. Enroll at NMIT for a semester or year!

Combine it all by joining a NOLs gap semester or gap year program – adventure, wilderness education, academic study, and plenty of invaluable experiences! Connect with yourself and the outdoors and gain a head start in your university studies or career with a life-changing gap year (or semester). Gain personal growth, different perspectives, and newfound confidence—all providing useful throughout your lifetime. We have worldwide campuses in India, New Zealand, Alaska, Mexico, the Rockies, Patagonia, East Africa, and so much more. Travel where you want, immersing yourself in new environments and diverse cultures. Join us for around 2.5 to 4.5 months, depending on whether it's a gap semester or a gap year program. Looking to make the most of your time out from school after high school graduation, mid-university, or after getting your degree? Visit our website or inquire today for complete details about our gap semester or gap year programs at NOLS.