New Zealand

           New Zealand is situated in the South Pacific ocean. New Zealand's two main islands cover 266,200 square kilometres (103,735 square miles), about the size of Japan or California and slightly larger than Great Britain. But has population of approximately 4million only. While Wellington is the capital, Auckland is the largest city with a population of approx. 1.5 million. The climate is moderate due to ocean. Summers are dry and warm with temperatures averaging 19 to 25 degree Celsius. Winter temperature average between 12- 18 degree Celsius. New Zealand has everything from dramatic mountain ranges to unpolluted sandy beaches, lush rainforests, glaciers and fiords and active volcanoes. In total, around 30 percent of New Zealand's land area is protected conservation land. New Zealand is world-renowned for its beautiful natural environment and exciting activities for thrill seekers and adventurers. Tourism is a major year-round industry, which is great for students looking for excellent recreation activities and new experiences.

New Zealanders popularly known as “Kiwis” are largely sophisticated and highly educated urban dwellers. New Zealanders are a famously hospitable people with a lively interest in other cultures. New Zealand is a rich mix of cultures – including Maori, Pakeha (European descent), Asian and Pacific peoples.

New Zealand has a range of different government-funded options for tertiary study ? universities, polytechnics, institutes of technology and colleges of education. There are also several thousand private training establishments (PTEs) offering a wide range of courses.

New Zealand has eight universities. All offer general undergraduate and graduate degrees and diplomas in many disciplines. Undergraduate degrees take three to four years to complete. Masters are generally 2yrs. However students can divide their studies into degrees and diploma and cut down their cost. Most full year university studies begin in February and July.

New Zealand Polytechnics which are named Institutes of Technology are state funded. There are 25 institutions, 18 in North Island and 7 in South Island offering a wide range of academic, vocational and professional courses such as Agriculture, Art & Design, Building & Construction, Business, Engineering, Fishing & Marine Studies, Forestry, Science & Technology, Tourism & Hospitality. As well as three and fouryear degrees. These courses are scheduled throughout the year.

         Private Training Providers (PTEs)

There are many throughout New Zealand. Some PTEs run courses in a particular discipline, such as business or travel and tourism. All are all required to be registered with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority. Most run on a timetable similar to state tertiary institutions.

Student Job Search is a national organisation that helps students find work. It has offices on most campuses. For jobs such as working in a restaurant or bar, or doing manual labour, you could expect to earn about NZ$12 to $18 an hour, before tax.

International students often comment on how safe they feel in New Zealand. All educational institutions that accept international students must comply with standards set out by the Ministry of Education.

Being a student can be lonely and stressful - even more so when you're far from home. Institutions provide free counselling about anything you need help with in your personal or academic life. At secondary school, each year group has a staff member who looks after student welfare, guidance and curriculum matters.

Security on campus and at home

Tertiary institutions have security guards on patrol day and night, emergency phones and swipe-card access to buildings. Some operate buddy systems so a volunteer will escort you home if you’re studying late.
New Zealand is safe compared to most countries, but it’s sensible to take precautions. Get to know your neighbours and find out if a Neighbourhood Support Group operates in your street. Don't leave belongings unattended. Lock your car, and keep things in the boot or take them with you.

Tertiary institutions have active women's groups and sometimes a women's common room. There are effective procedures for dealing with sexual harassment.

• A recent passport-size photograph.
•  An offer of place from an educational institution, which states that you have been accepted by the institution, the name of the course, the minimum time required to complete the course, and whether a course fee must be paid or the student is exempt from the fee (e.g. scholarship students). This will be sent to you by the institution confirming your enrolment.
•  Evidence of payment of the fee or exemption from the fee (not necessary if your application is being approved in principle).
•  A written guarantee from an institution or person that suitable accommodation is available to you in New Zealand.
•  Evidence of sufficient funds to live on while you are studying.