Study Abroad in New Zealand

What to Expect in Aotearoa New Zealand

Studying abroad in Aotearoa New Zealand is paradise for nature lovers. The North Island offers sailing, beaches, and hot springs. On the South Island, wild rainforest, the Southern Alps, glaciers, and gold towns await your exploration. 

More than 800 years ago, Māori became the first people to migrate to Aotearoa, crossing the South Pacific in canoes and navigating by the stars. European whalers and explorers found the islands much later. In 1840, Aotearoa became a British colony, creating a unique and culturally diverse country with Māori carved meeting houses and British colonial architecture. As you can tell, the Aotearoa study abroad experience is one of a kind. 

Now it’s your turn to study abroad in Aotearoa and explore this vast country and immerse yourself in university culture through our direct enrollment programs in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland and Ōtautahi Christchurch. 

Languages Spoken: 
English, New Zealand Sign Language, te reo Māori
Climate: 
Diverse
Currency: 
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone: 
GMT+13

Te reo Māori

Te reo Māori is the indigenous language of Aotearoa New Zealand. As you plan your study abroad experience in Aotearoa, we encourage you to familiarize yourself with te reo Māori and its pronunciation as a sign of respect for the local culture. Once on-site, you’ll have access to courses and resources at your university and in your community. For now, here is a quick resource to help you practice the indigenous names for your selected IES Abroad location.
  • Aotearoa
  • Ōtautahi
  • Tāmaki Makaurau

Aotearoa is the te reo Māori name for "New Zealand," which directly translates to "The Land of the Long White Cloud".

Within the country, "Aotearoa" is often used as a replacement for "New Zealand". The two names are also commonly paired together as "Aotearoa New Zealand".

🔈 Pronounce "Aotearoa"

About the IES Abroad Centers

an indoor photo of University of Auckland
  • Auckland
  • Christchurch

The Center staff are highly trained local professionals providing on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.   

Nearby The University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau, we have on-the-ground staff dedicated to supporting you during your time abroad. Get comfortable commuting to university, and finding your study abroad hub; all the while, our staff is just a phone call away.  

 

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
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The Student Experience

Me at the Prague Castle Complex
Jimmy Xu,

Fall Break Trip

I write about my fall break, where I visited 6 different countries over 10 days in Central Europe.

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
three students standing in front of fair table with IES Abroad catalogs

Want to study abroad in Aotearoa?

How will studying abroad in Aotearoa redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now