Study Abroad in Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland, the City of Sails, has it all—from oceans to volcanoes to city life. Though Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, it packs a lot into a small space, making it easy for students to get around and see the most of what New Zealand has to offer! Whether you crave outdoor adventures or want to go for some fantastic food and shopping downtown, Auckland is both urban and exotic, the best mix of study and play.

Featuring influences of the native Maori culture, Auckland is also the most multicultural city in the country, offering a variety of traditions and cuisine. With three national universities located in the city—University of Auckland, Massey University, and AUT University—Auckland is also a student-friendly city and popular study abroad destination. If you’re considering Auckland for your time studying abroad, here are some tips, sites, and things to consider.

Photo credits: xiquinhosilva.

With such a variety of landscapes present within one city, Auckland often captivates simply with its natural beauty, drawing students to the city’s popular outdoor spaces.

Climb any of the old volcanic mounts, many of which are former Maori fortresses, called pa. One Tree Hill (which, in fact, has more than one tree and plenty of sheep!) is a popular one, offering plenty to do and see in Cornwall Park and a 360-degree view of the city from the top. North Head is another with great views, plus 19th century war tunnels to explore!

Water and adventure sports are also a huge attraction, and the options are countless—from zip-lining on Waiheke Island to surfing at Piha to jet boating on the harbor! Plenty of companies offer these activities and more, but look out for any student discounts and consider getting a StudentCard for more possible student deals. Or just go hang out on any of the coasts beautiful beaches or hike some bushwalk paths!

As New Zealand has a subtropical climate, the weather can be quite changeable! But no worries, there is still plenty to do and see when the weather is spotty or if you’re just not the outdoorsy, ready-to-bungee-jump type.

If you’re into museums, the Auckland Art Gallery is newly renovated and a work of art in itself, with important work from all over the world as well as the best of local art. If you want more about NZ, the Auckland Museum also features an impressive array of Pacific Island and Maori art and artifacts, all within the huge columned building in Auckland’s green Domain. The Auckland Zoo, Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, and Auckland Botanic Gardens are some other great places to spend a weekend afternoon.

For excellent food, shopping, and nightlife, checkout the Viaduct or the Britomart Precinct (home to the City Farmers Market). And of course don’t miss the Sky Tower, where you can dine with a rotating view of the city from 328 meters in the air!

Affordability

TThe currency used in Auckland is the New Zealand Dollar. As with any foreign currency, it takes some getting used to the different colors and sizes of the notes and coins. While the exchange rate is in your favor when converting from US dollars, Auckland is no exception to more expensive city prices. Clothing and other products may be more expensive than you’re used to in the United States, so it’s important to be wise with a budget. New Zealand’s StudentCard is one way to look out for money-saving deals.

Insider Tips

Though studying and traveling in New Zealand can be the best adventure of your life, it’s important to be prepared for what it’s really like to live there before you go.

• Visas: Most study abroad students will need to obtain a student visa for full-time study at a university or study abroad program in Auckland. You can find out more about the process of applying for a New Zealand visa here.
• Hemisphere switch: Without stating the obvious, New Zealand is a great distance from home! In addition to planning for the long flights and jetlag that come with traveling to a country on the opposite side of the world, you also have to keep in mind that you’ll be in the Southern Hemisphere, where the Kiwis have barbecues on Christmas and bundle up in July (though winters are pretty mild)!
• Transportation: There are plenty of public transportation options to get around Auckland. Walking is very popular with New Zealanders, as well as cycling, but if you’re not living close enough to where you go to class, you can always take a bus from any part of the city. Trains also run regularly to and from the suburbs. Check out Maxx.co.nz for more information and timetables.

To Conclude

So you’re already sold on adventuring in Auckland, right? Then the only thing to do is decide how you want to study there. Check out our firsthand reviews of Auckland study abroad programs to figure out what is right for you. You can also check out www.aucklandnz.com/studying for more resources on studying and living in Auckland.

With its student-friendly hangouts, city life, and beautiful scenery, Auckland is the ultimate place to study and get out and explore!

Written by Ariana Lisefski