New Zealand

Kia ora!

New Zealand offers students a world-class education system, endless opportunities for adventure and a relaxed lifestyle. With a population of only 4.6 million and a landmass the size of the UK, there is plenty of space to explore the stunning native forests and snow-capped mountains, enjoy uncrowded white or black sandy beaches, and spectacular lakes and fjords. The climate ranges from warm and subtropical in the far north to cool and temperate in the far south.

Friendly and welcoming, New Zealand is ranked the world’s 2nd most peaceful country by the Global Peace Index. (2017)

Language RequirementS

Students must have a reasonable level of English on arrival.

School

High School in New Zealand begins at Year 9 – students are usually 13 years of age and continue until Year 13 (approx 17 years of age). The New Zealand education system ranks among the world’s best. Diverse subject-based field trips offer many opportunities for learning beyond the classroom.

Family

Families live in homes with backyards big enough for all the kids, a cricket match and a vegetable patch! Some families live by the sea or in rural areas with farmland and animals.

Weekends are spent catching up with family and friends, exploring nature and enjoying hobbies and activities. New Zealand teenagers enjoy a variety of team sports – not just Rugby!

Food and hospitality play a huge part in New Zealand family life – weekend picnics on the beach, a hāngi with family, or a barbeque with neighbours – food, family and friendship go hand-in-hand in New Zealand.