Study Abroad in Christchurch

a group of students pose for a photo while backpacking on New Zealand's coast
a student taking a coastal sunride hike in Kaikoura, New Zealand
a student stares out over a city from the hilltop in New Zealand
the Hooker Valley trek in Aoraki Mount Cook national park

What to Expect in Ōtautahi Christchurch

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Pack your bags and study abroad in Ōtautahi Christchurch! 

Tucked in between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean on Aotearoa New Zealand’s South Island, Ōtautahi is known for its beautiful gardens (its nickname is the Garden City), rich culture, and high quality of living. Need to clear your head? Travel to the Southern Alps for a challenging hike that will make you feel like you’re on top of the clouds. 

When you study abroad in Ōtautahi, engaging in outdoor activities, exploring the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha campus, and enjoying the laid-back city lifestyle will all be routine. 

Languages Spoken: 
English, New Zealand Sign Language, te reo Māori
Climate: 
Temperate
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"

Our Program

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Study Abroad
students backpacking among the mountaintops in New Zealand
Christchurch, New Zealand

Direct Enrollment - University Of Canterbury

Fall/ Spring/ Academic Year
None
Direct Enrollment, Experiential Learning, Part-Time Internship
$
20995
Program Details

Top 5 Things to Do in Ōtautahi Christchurch

Visit Kaikoura
Swim with dolphins, kayak on the sea, and experience whale watching.
Aventure on Bike
There are 70 kms of mountain bike trails for you to test your skills. 
Hike on the Port Hills
See spectacular views of Ōtautahi and Lyttelton Harbour.
Sample Local Flavors
Why not visit a famers' market to get a taste of Ōtautahi?
Smell the Flowers
Take time to smell the azaleas and rhododendrons in Ilam Gardens.

About the IES Abroad Center

Students at the point of Roy's Peak in Christrhuch.
IES Abroad Christchurch

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

Nearby the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha, 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. 

 

IES Abroad Ōtautahi Christchurch Staff

Kate Smart headshot

Kate Smart

IES Abroad Auckland, Christchurch & Sydney Center Director

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Leona Harris headshot

Leona Harris

IES Abroad Ōtautahi Christchurch Program Manager

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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.

Helpful Links

Blogs on Mental Health
Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
Blogs on Safety
Learn More About Health & Safety
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.

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The Ōtautahi Christchurch Student Experience

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Beachy Shoreline with sunset in background
Evie Dickelman,

Rarotonga

A week in Raro, what we did and where to eat! This was so needed after half the semester with all the tests and assignments.

Field Trip/Travel
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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.

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Latest from Ōtautahi Christchurch

Follow @IESabroad on all your favorite social media platforms for the latest videos, photos, blog posts, and updates from our students and staff around the world.

IES Abroad News

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Want to study abroad in Ōtautahi?

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

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