international student tours nz

Qualmark® Accredited

11 - 15 days. all meals included, comfortable cabin accommodation, lots of included activities, south island trips, summer 2020/2021 (11 days).

Experience the scenic beauty of Abel Tasman National Park, visit the Franz Joseph Glacier and the iconic Milford Sounds set amongst the Fiordland National Park. Go swimming with dolphins or whale watching in Kaikoura. Stay two nights at New Zealand’s “Adventure Capital” Queenstown and go bungy jumping, sky diving, four wheel driving, paragliding… plus much more!

Includes ALL MEALS, 11 days of travel and activities, 10 nights cabin accommodation, and $270+ of included activities!

Trip 1: December 10 – 20, 2020 (11 days) Trip 2: January 12 – 22, 2021 (11 days) Cost: NZ$1,950 / NZ$1,750 with early-bird special*

North Island Trip 2020 (15 days) – TBC

Experience New Zealand’s rich culture and stunning scenery with ISENZ’s 15-day North Island trip. Visit the volcanic heartland of NZ and see spouting geysers and bubbling mud, bathe in natural hot pools, witness thousands of magical glowworms at the Waitomo caves, walk along our beautiful North island beaches, visit the Hobbiton Movie Set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies, and much more.

Includes ALL MEALS, 15 days of travel and activities, 14 nights cabin accommodation, and over NZ$350+ of included activities!

Trip Dates:  September 26 – October 10, 2020 (15 days) Trip Cost: NZ$2,380 / NZ$2,280 with early-bird special*

What others say about ISENZ trips

We concluded that the North Island trip was the best decision we made in NZ so far! Sigrid Oledal , Oslo, Norway

I am so thankful that internationals like me get the opportunity to travel around New Zealand with ISENZ, because otherwise we definitely would not see as much of the country as I did with Russell, Mattana and all the other lovely helpers. They became something like a second host family. Carlotta Tillmann , Germany, studied at Otumoetai College, Tauranga

The Experience of a Lifetime

New Zealand is a land of vast and diverse landscapes. You’ll witness sights here that you won’t witness anywhere else in the world. Check out this video from 100% Pure New Zealand (the official tourism website for New Zealand) that showcases our stunningly beautiful and unique country, and a small taste of what you can expect to see on one of our ISENZ trips!

To find out more about ISENZ trips, get in touch.

About isenz.

ISENZ is a New Zealand based Education Agency which provides assistance for students wishing to study in New Zealand. We provide free advice regarding school and course selection, and assist in the enrolment process.

ISENZ also runs Qualmark accredited trips around the North and South Islands and an orientation programme for international high school students arriving in New Zealand.

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International Student Bus & Coach tours

Join one of our exclusive New Zealand International Student Bus & Coach Tours and enjoy a trip of a lifetime during the next school holidays.

See our spectacular country with one of NZ’s best student travel companies. Make friends from all over the world on one of our international student coach tours. Travel in our modern  luxury air-conditioned 5-star touring coach  as you enjoy a range of unique New Zealand adventures. From the adrenalin-filled activities New Zealand is known for through to exploring the country’s spectacular beauty and rich history.

UPCOMING INTERNATIONAL STUDENT bus & coach TOURS

See our range of educational trips and student travel adventures below. A great way for international student groups to travel to some of New Zealand’s best tourism spots and activities.

Swimming with the dolphins in Kaikoura

Cultural and geothermal experiences in rotorua, kayaking the abel tasman national park, a tour of hobbiton, bungee jumping in queenstown, surfing on the west coast, whitewater rafting the best rapids in the country.

Your care and safety are our top priorities, and thanks to our highly trained tour leaders and guides we will also ensure every day is fun, exciting and even educational! On our international student coach tours you’ll enjoy delicious meals and our luxury air-conditioned 5-star touring coach with comfortable leather seats, USB charging pods and free onboard WIFI! To book you will need your parents consent and inform your host family and your International Dean/Homestay Coordinator at school.

ACCOMMODATION

Carefully selected holiday parks (cabins) and hostels.

Leather seats, USB charging pods and free onboard WIFI!

Breakfast and dinners are served everyday. We also cater for special diets.

Expert tour leaders/drivers and tour guides.

TRANSPORTATION

Luxury air-conditioned 5-star touring coach

TIAKI PROMISE

Weir Tours are proud supporters of the Tiaki Promise.

THE FINER DETAILS

Main caregiver or school, get in touch, or call us: 06-278-5858.

First Name* (required)

Last Name* (required)

Email* (required)

Contact number* (required)

School Name* (required)

City/Town* (required)

Your message* (required)

Please note: In order to book you will need your parent’s consent and you will need to inform both your host family and International Dean/Homestay Co-ordinator at your school.

• Environment & Sustainability
• Learning Journeys and the Community
• Safety and Standards
• Request a quote
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• Biodiversity
• Rangitoto Island
• Extreme Natural Events - Rivers
• Extreme Natural Events - Volcanoes
• Geothermal Chemistry
• Forest Ecology
• Gold Mining
• Marine Studies
• Mud Flat Ecology
• Natural Landscapes – Taupo - Tongariro
• History of a nation
• Paper Industry
• Sustainable Use of an environment
• Urban Development
• North Island multiday field trip
• South Island multi day field trip
• South Island October Tour - 10 Day
• North Island Tour - 7 Days
• South Island April Tour - 10 Days

Rotorua Day Trip

Waitomo day trip.

• Bay of Island and Cape Reinga Weekend
• 1 Day Auckland Shopping Trip
• Australian outback reef and rainforest
• Snow Adventure
• Coromandel Day Tour
• Hobbiton and Hot Pools tour - 1 Day
• Waitomo Day Tour - 1 Day
• Rotorua Taupo Tongariro Waitomo - 3 Days
• Hobbits Geysers and Glow worms - 2 Day Trilogy tour
• North Island geography
• Science and Geography Learning Journey
• New Zealand Flora and Fauna
• Australia - New Zealand the best of the lands down under
• Ski and Adventure
• Environmental studies, Cultural exchange, Home-stay
• Cross-curricular, cultural exchange, community service
• School visit, cultural exchange and sightseeing in the North Island
• Food and Beverage tour
• Parent-child Educational tour of North Island of New Zealand

International Students

Travel options for international secondary school students in new zealand. .

Looking for the ultimate tour of New Zealand? One that you can travel with friends or on your own? Look no further! Our fun holiday programs have been designed for International high school students studying in New Zealand or Australia. Why international students select our tours around New Zealand?

• Smaller groups - don't get stuck on a large bus waiting in lines. Our groups vary between 10-22 students max.
• Fun, professional guides - we only hire experienced, fun and friendly guides. 
• Trusted by your school and we are one of New Zealand's most trusted student tour providers. 
• We stay at modern hostels with Wifi - no tents or run-down campgrounds! 
• Restaurant dinners only - we don't get our guides to cook for you.
• Private, comfortable coaches throughout every tour. 
• We vigilantly abide by 'The Education Code of Practice: Pastrol Care of International students'  at all times -  we have exceptionally high safety standards.

Check out or scheduled  South Island 10 day tour, North Island 7 day tou r, Bay of Islands trips , Ski/Snowboarding adventure tours and much more. If you are looking for something different, give us a call or talk to your school's coordinator today, we can put together tours that suit your interests and budget. 

10 DAY SOUTH ISLAND TOUR FOR STUDENTS

• By arrangement: get in touch - only 10 students needed.

7 DAY North Island tour

• By arrangement: get in touch - only 10 students needed

• Get in touch - only 10 students needed

10 DAY SOUTH ISLAND APRIL TOUR

• By arrangement; get in touch - only 10 students needed

BAY of ISLANDS & CAPE REINGA

OUTBACK REEF AND RAINFOREST

2 DAY ROTORUA AND WAITOMO TOUR

• Ask us for 2020 dates

3 DAY SNOW ADVENTURE TOUR

AUCKLAND SIGHT-SEEING AND SHOPPING TOUR

Day trip to Waitomo

• By Arrangement (min group size 10)

COROMANDEL TRIP

HOBBITON AND HOT POOLS TOUR

WAITOMO DAY TOUR

WHITE ISLAND STUDENT TOUR

• 17th November 2019

Rotorua Taupo Tongariro Waitomo

TRILOGY TOUR - HOBBITS GEYSERS AND GLOW WORMS

Auckland/Coromandel 2 day STUDENT TOUR

• 23rd - 24th September 2017

Phone NZ: 0800 693-869 --> Phone International: 0064 7 571-0796

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New Zealand’s number one youth tour operator

See the best of new zealand.

learn, have fun and leave with unforgettable memories and lifelong friends

Qualmark accredited

specialist group tours for educational, sports and special interest groups

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For NZ School groups wanting a geography and history tour of the South Island  

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    For Study Abroad Programs or Alumni groups seeking a New Zealand experience

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   Designed for groups   wanting a Tour  based on a theme or topic of interest

Kia ora & welcome to  New Zealand Educational Tours

Educational and cultural tours of aotearoa new zealand.

We are lucky enough to live in a beautiful diverse country and our passion is to share our place with people from all over the world and take you on a learning journey of New Zealand. For over 25 years we have been providing educational, adventure and special interest tours in New Zealand for schools, universities, study abroad programmes, international students, travel and educational agents.  We have hosted thousands of people from pre-teens and mid-twenties to over 80 years.  They have left New Zealand with wonderful stories to tell,  experiences to share and a yearning to return.

Our local ‘Kiwi’ tour managers, personalised customer service and a commitment to care and safety will ensure you have a holiday of a lifetime.

New Zealand Secondary schools: We can offer customised tours through New Zealand for those wanting a focus on Geography, History, Geology and Biology.  We here at NZET have travelled the world extensively and there is really 'no place like home'. So if you want to explore the four corners of the most beautiful country on earth - please get in touch and we'll see what we can do! We can cater for all sizes of school groups.

We have Covid-19 ready plans in place should we need to travel under level 2 restrictions.

The Tiaki Promise

We run our tours according to 'The Tiaki Promise'. Tiaki means to care for people and places. New Zealand is a beautiful country, and everyone has a responsibility to look after it. This promise ensures that New Zealand is kept clean and beautiful for future generations. We ask those who travel with us to follow this promise so that you too become a guardian acting to preserve our beautiful home, Aotearoa.

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Featured Tours

Winter Wonderland Tour 2024

An exciting combination of both the North and the South Islands including two days skiing or snowboarding in stunning Queenstown.

Check out the Winter Wonderland tour itinerary here.

8 Jul - 18 Jul 2024 - NZ$2,900.00

(Available to all students)

Epic 1 South Island October 2024

Enjoy an action-packed experience of the South Island and meet new friends on this fantastic, fun-filled 11 day tour - including our exclusive Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise. 

29 Sep - 9 Oct 2024 - NZ$2,540.00

South Island Adventure 1 October 2024

Join us for 11 amazing days travelling the South Island. Meet new friends, enjoy magnificent scenery and fantastic activities - includes our unique overnight cruise of the incredible Doubtful Sound. 

Epic 2 South Island October 2024

30 Sep - 10 Oct 2024 - NZ$2,540.00

South Island Adventure 2 October 2024

Special Offer

INSTAGRAM PHOTO COMP – Follow NZETNZ , Mention @NZETNZ and tag your photos #NZETNZ and WIN!

SUMMER SOUTH TOUR, DECEMBER 2018

"I would recommend NZET to anyone who's looking for a summer adventure with awesome activities, a wonderful group spirit and memories they'll never forget!" Swiss student - Summer South Tour 2018

Amazing time

"It was an amazing tour, we were able to see the most beautiful places, I met amazing people and I just had a great time!" Italian student - Exam Buster Tour 2018

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• For parents, guardians & caregivers
• Info for students

International students

Welcome aboard.

If you want to study in New Zealand, NZ School of Tourism is a great choice. You’ll be joining a school that loves inspiring our students to achieve successful careers in the travel and tourism industry.

International students are an important part of our NZST community! We offer a specialised Level 4 International Flight Attendant Certificate and our Auckland Airport Campus has the country’s best flight attendant training facility ensuring you can learn in a real flight environment with a 747 cabin trainer and a full Boeing 737 aircraft, an A320 cabin trainer, air evacuation slides, life rafts and an airline firefighting simulator.

We have close relationships with employers, who come directly to us to recruit hospitality, tourism and airlines staff, meaning there are plenty of exciting job opportunities for our graduates.  

We have campuses around New Zealand and a wide selection of courses and programmes to choose from. If you are ready to enrol now, click the button below and fill in the form via our enrolment portal, Enroller. One of our admissions staff will be in touch soon to tell you the next steps.

Enrol online

International Student Support

Studying in NZ

If you want an exceptional international education in a unique and beautiful place, New Zealand is a great choice. Our education system is one of the best in the world, and we offer a great lifestyle full of unique opportunities and experiences.

Qualifications that count

We have courses from NZQA Level 3 through to Level 6 Diplomas, so our students can gain an education in New Zealand that will help ensure future success. Students are encouraged to develop creative thinking and problem-solving skills, and will be supported in all aspects of study.

Explore while you study

New Zealand is proudly multi-cultural, and we respect and welcome international students. The New Zealand Government’s Code of Practice requires education providers to keep students safe and well during their study, including during their recreational time.

New Zealand really does have it all. A high quality of life, diverse communities, vibrant cities, stunning natural scenery and an unbeatable range of outdoor pursuits, all within a relatively small area. Cities such as Auckland and Wellington offer cultural activities, while those with a passion for the great outdoors will encounter a mind-blowing range of terrains, including glaciers, mountains, rainforest and of course plenty of coastline.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements are based on what NZQA level you choose to study with us. For Level 3, 4 and 5 courses, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

Be 18 years of age on day 1 of your course

Have completed 4 years of secondary school or have equivalent work experience

For Level 5 courses, you must have an academic score of 5.5 and no band score lower than 5 (or the NZQA equivalent)

For Level 4 courses, you must have a general or academic score of 5.5 and no band score lower than 5 (or the NZQA equivalent)

For Level 3 courses, you must have a general or academic score of 5 with no band score lower than 5 (or the NZQA equivalent). 

For Level 6 programmes you must:

Have successfully completed a programme at NZQF Level 5 or equivalent

IELTS of 6 Academic with no band below 5.5 or NZQA equivalent

English Language Proficiency 

You must have passed an NZQA approved internal English test (including NSIA and Campbell Institute) with 5.5 IELTS overall. From 24 October 2015, this is only applicable for students from markets with 80% or over visa approval. For Immigration NZ visa approval rates click here . 

i. IELTS: Academic score of 5.5 with no band score lower than 5

ii. TOEFL paper-based test carried out prior to 1 October 2017 with a score of 550

and an essay score of 5.5.

iii. TOEFL internet-based test with a score of 5.5 and no band score lower than 5

iv. Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First or B2 First for schools with a score of

162. No less than 154 in each skill. 

v. OET: Minimum of Grade C or 200 in all sub-tests

vi. NZCEL: Level 4 General or Employment 

vii. Pearson Test of English (Academic): PTE (Academic) score of 42 with no band

score lower than 36.

viii. LanguageCert: B2 Communicator IESOL (LRWS) with HIGH PASS and no less

than Pass in each skill

ix. Trinity ISE: ISE II with no less than merit in any band

For more information click here  

English Language Proficiency

Course Content

NZST reserves the right to alter a course if deemed necessary and is not liable to any student if contracted services cannot be provided for any reason such as withdrawal of agreement from airlines, political unrest in a country, strikes, price increases from suppliers etc.

There is no refund for any part of the course not provided or undertaken for whatever reason. Certain criteria must be reached before students can go on field trips, work internships and international study tours. Failure to reach these criteria will result in students unable to participate with no refund owing. If students are absent from class a medical certificate is required in order for you to make up the class with another group. Another group will not be possible however, if you are absent when your field trip is on or if you had failed to meet the criteria.

Course Costs Include

GST (Government Goods and Services Tax)

NZQA registration and credit fees

All tuition, student workbooks, manuals, and resources

All outside visits, and domestic study tours

Any bank fees incurred

Course Costs Exclude

Administration Fee of $300

Export Education Levy – set at 0.0045% of tuition fees

Uniform costs of $600

Diploma Study Tour cost of between $400 & $450

Personal stationery

Lost, destroyed or stolen workbooks are charged at $10 per workbook

Domestic study tours

– Transport to and from the airport/transport station on all study tours

– All meals and drinks

International Student Levy

The New Zealand Government has imposed an international student levy on tuition and course related fees. From 1 January 2019, the levy will be 0.89% of the compulsory tuition fees.

Optional International Study Tour

The optional international study tour includes international flights, accommodation, airport transfers, hotel inspections, and possible sightseeing depending on destination. Estimated cost is $1,000 for 3 to 4 days for Australia or a South Pacific Island. This estimate excludes departure taxes, some meals, insurance and possibly domestic fares if flights depart from Auckland. We would recommend you have at least NZD $50 to $100 per day for your expenses. Additional visa costs may apply depending on destination and the passport you hold.

Application Requirements

International students must meet the requirements of Immigration New Zealand and must have a valid student visa to study in the country. Immigration New Zealand offers various visas that allow you to go to school, take a course, or do other training. If you want to study for less than three months, students may be able to study with a visitor visa.  A visitor visa may only be used when the period of booked study does not exceed 12 weeks. If the programme of study is longer, students must apply and receive a student visa prior to commencing their study.

A valid student visa will:

Correctly name the college

Correctly name the programme/qualification they will study

Provide the campus location

The visa will indicate a visa expiry date that is in the future

Students over 18 years of age do not need to secure accommodation prior to arriving in New Zealand, but it is advisable. Check our Accommodation section for more information about how to find a place to stay in New Zealand.

How to Apply

To obtain a student visa, you have to be enrolled in an approved course at an educational institution that has been accredited to offer that course. You can apply for your visa online with Immigration New Zealand. For students who are already in New Zealand or if you need help, contact Up Education’s International admissions team at [email protected] for more information.

Fee Protection

Trust Account

When you receive a letter of offer from NZST, you will also receive an invoice for your tuition and course related fees. A receipt will be issued once the payment is completed, which you can then use for your student visa application. Please note that the money received from you will be deposited into a trust account until course commencement, which is a requirement of the Education Act 1989. The money is withdrawn in stages as the course is completed.

If you do not meet your visa requirements, all course fees will be refunded back to you. However, this does not apply to visa application fees, application/administration fees, or accomodation application fees if your accommodation has been booked in advance. Refund decisions are based on what we advise in our Contract of Enrolment. A copy can be found on the last page of the Information and Application Form.

Liquidation

In the unlikely event of NZST going into liquidation or ceasing to be a provider or a signatory to the Code of Practice, the NZST Trust will hold the unused portion of the course for which the student has paid. NZST will actively try to place students with other providers and negotiate a reduced cost for the balance of any study.

Withdrawal and Refund Policy Procedures

If you wish to withdraw after being confirmed on your programme, you must put this in writing and hand it in to the office or send it by post.

The following will be refunded to the students (or the student’s parent/legal guardian) bank account where the funds initially came from.

Programmes with a duration of one term, 3 months or longer:

Full refund when a request is received 21 working days or more prior to course commencement

The college will retain up to 25 percent of tuition and course related costs when written notice is received up to 10th working day following course commencement

No refund will occur when a request is received from the 11th working day following course commencement

Programmes that are less than one term, three months:

Full refund when a request is received 6 working days or more prior to course commencement

The college will retain up to 25 percent of tuition and course related costs when written notices is received up to 5th working day following course commencement

No refund will occur when a request is received from the 6th working day following course commencement

A student’s accomodation and living expenses funds – the unused balance is refundable without penalty.

Should NZST cease to be a signatory to the Code of Practice or cease to be a provider, for example, go into liquidation, then NZST will:

Refund the amount in question to the student (or the student’s parent or legal guardian) or If directed by the student or the code administrator or the agency responsible for fee protection mechanisms, transfer the amount to another signatory as agreed with the student

Refunds when a student withdraws or cancels their programme of study are only made to the bank account in the country where we first received the students funds from

Please note that there may also be additional insurance and uniform costs if these companies have already been paid at time of withdrawal. If you voluntarily leave or are withdrawn from a programme after the cancellation period, you will be liable for any outstanding fees. Immigration New Zealand will be notified if study is terminated and may impact on academic record and future enrolment. When a student visa is withdrawn, a student must obtain a new visa from Immigration New Zealand within 2 weeks or leave the country.

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Complaints and Annual Notification Report Register

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Our Schools

Charles Darwin University International College

International College of Hotel Management

NZ Tertiary College

Swinburne Open Australia

UP Education

UPIC Auckland University of Technology

UPIC Victoria University of Wellington

University of Auckland International College

University of Tasmania International Pathway College

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© 2023 New Zealand School of Tourism is one of the trading names for the registered PTE Yoobee Colleges. Your enrolment is with Yoobee Colleges Ltd and your qualification is issued by Yoobee Colleges.

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Study Tour New Zealand

Home / International Student Program / Study Tour New Zealand

• Study Abroad Program​
• Primary School Program
• Secondary School Program
• Study Tours
• Cost of Living

Study tours can bring numerous benefits for international students. ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) courses, exhilarating hiking activities and classes with the local students of south island are just a starting point for the tour.

• The main theme ensures that each study-tour group will achieve their learning goals

• The excellent education of New Zealand will help students become lifelong learners

• Experience another culture and lifestyle, and you will become a citizen of the world.

Short-term study tours include experiencing new opportunities, meeting new families and friends, and also having fun. Therefore, whether they are staying for a few days or weeks, students gain real educational benefits.

About Study Tour

Studying at Public Schools of south island in New Zealand provides international students with a pass to success. Students will be able to improve their English, grow confident, and explore New Zealand’s culture during the stay.

Short-term study tours are hosted by the New Zealand Public Schools District. The contents of the study program is arranged according to the duration of the tour and the team's interest in one or more study topics.

The tour group experiences modern educational facilities as the local students do. Study tours include hands-on learning and visits to famous attractions.

Valuable Benefits

New Zealand is a prestigious international education base where foreign students can experience new and challenging learning methods. Every study tour is an educational trip, which gives the students the opportunity to:

• Improve their English Language Skills

• Gain Academic Advantages

• Discover Leadership skills

• Enhance international awareness

• Rebuild their confidence

Study Tour Program

Studying in the south island is unique. With the support of families and schools, international students will quickly gain confidence in using their English speaking skills. Creative teaching, competitive resources and inspiring hiking activities encourage students to keep learning constantly.

Students experience New Zealand’s culture with their carefully chosen host families. First-rate educational programs are also included in the study tour theme.

• Science and Technology

• Performance and Visual Arts

• Leadership and Sports

Study Tour Includes

Study tour will provide a lifelong learning advantage that is gained through the following topics:

• School activities and a warm welcome ceremony with local students from the south island of New Zealand.

• ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) classes to quickly gain confidence in learning English.

• Full of interactive and fun travel to learn about local culture and broaden one’s horizons.

• Stay in a local host family and become a member of a New Zealand family.

• Family and school peers will help students build long-lasting friendships.

• A special study tour graduation ceremony to celebrate the success of the students.

New Zealand South Island Study Tour

Students: Primary and secondary school students aged 9 or above.

Duration: 2 to 12 weeks.

Time Available: Study tour is held during the New Zealand semester.

Study tour size: 10 to 15 people, arranged as follows:

• Small group: A team with a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 students is arranged in one school.

• Large group: A team with more than 15 students is arranged in two or more schools.

Tour leader: The study tour must be accompanied by one or two adults.

Plan A Study Tour

To get a study tour plan, just click here to get in touch with our representatives.

The study tour is a rich and meaningful learning experience. Every study tour is specially designed to make sure that students will return from a rewarding journey. International students will discover their own strengths and the magic of learning, whether inside or outside the classroom.

©2019-2020. EDUCATIONSOUTH.AC.NZ All Rights Reserved.

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First Week of Arriving in New Zealand: International Student Guide

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, what to do when you first arrive in new zealand as an international student.

This is it! Your New Zealand adventure begins! After getting off the plane in New Zealand and taking your airport transfer to your first week of accommodation, you can begin to get settled in as a student in New Zealand. Sure, the first week of being an international student can be a pretty stressful time as you have a few important things to do before you can start going to class and exploring this amazing country. Nevertheless, with this guide to the first week of arriving in New Zealand, it will be a breeze to set up your new life in New Zealand.

This day-by-day guide will go through all the essentials you’ll need to sort out before your classes start. You’ll need to set up a bank account, a phone, go to your orientation and more. For the sake of ease, we have listed the days as Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, etc. but we understand that you’ll probably have to change the order you do these days in depending on the date of your Enrollment and Orientation that has been specified by your university.

How to Prepare Before Arriving in New Zealand

So you have a student visa for New Zealand, compare flight prices , booked your ticket, you have planned where you are going to live and how your going to get to your accommodation on your first day in New Zealand. Here are a few other ways you can prepare for studying in New Zealand before arriving.

• Get some travel insurance
• Get an International Driving Permit
• Pack your bags
• Look up what to expect when arriving in a New Zealand airport in our guide, Arriving in New Zealand: Airport Customs, Biosecurity & the Arrival Process .

Day 1 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Get over the jet lag.

Welcome to New Zealand! First things first, you need to get over your jet lag. Before you jump into doing any of the important stuff, use your first day in New Zealand to get your head in the game. We have a ton of advice in How to Beat Jet Lag in Just Three Days and 10 Simple Ways to Get Over Jet Lag .Once it hits daytime in New Zealand, it’s important to stay awake and active to help get over the jet lag. Use a free trial at a gym, explore the city or go for a walk. Staying active helps to keep you awake when it’s important, then tires you out for the evening when you are supposed to be sleeping.

Move into Your Accommodation

If you have arranged accommodation before arriving in New Zealand, then you will have received instructions on how to move into your student accommodation/homestay/flat. However, if you have arrived before you are scheduled to move into your accommodation or are looking for accommodation while you’re in New Zealand, then check-into some budget accommodation like a hostel, which will help you stick to your student budget.

Backpacker hostels are plentiful in New Zealand, so just head to our hostel accommodation page to check out the offerings you your university city. We recommend booking your hostel nights at least for your first couple of days in New Zealand to make your arrival as smooth as possible.

Do Some Grocery Shopping

Youll also need to do some grocery shopping for your first week in New Zealand. Cooking for yourself really helps your budget, rather than eating out. Start out on the right track by grocery shopping and cooking for yourself from day one. See what to expect from New Zealand supermarkets in Food Shopping in New Zealand . If you need inspiration on what to cook, take a look at our Hostel Recipes category, which also works as fantastic recipes to do in your student accommodation too.

Contact Home

Finally, let your friends and family know that you have arrived in New Zealand safely. If your accommodation doesn’t provide Wi-Fi, then take a look at 10 Free Wi-Fi Spots in New Zealand Where Youll Actually Have a Good Connection .

Day 2 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Find out your address.

If you have moved into your student accommodation already, find out the address so that you can open a New Zealand bank account later. You will also need to provide an address to your university when enrolling. Plus, your family will probably want to know your address too so send it to them. However, if you are staying in temporary accommodation while you find a place to stay during your course, find out the address of your temporary location anyway and ask if you can use it for opening up a bank account, (it’s a common request that hostels receive in arrival cities). That way, you can start sorting out your paperwork in New Zealand as soon as possible. You can always change your address later.

Set Up Your Phone

For the next few steps of setting up your life as an international student in New Zealand, you will need to make some phone calls. Choose your New Zealand network provider, which we have loads of advice on in What are the Best Phone Networks in New Zealand , and start setting up your phone for New Zealand. You will need a New Zealand SIM card which you can pick up in any of the phone networks stores or even sometimes free in your hostel. If you have checked your phone from home works in New Zealand following the steps in Will Your Phone Work in New Zealand? then just follow the onscreen instructions when you pop your NZ SIM card into your phone to set up your phone for New Zealand. If your phone from home doesn’t work with a New Zealand SIM then you will need to buy a new phone.

Book an Appointment with the Bank

Now that your phone is set up, time to make your first phone call: an appointment with the bank. Choose your bank and give them a call to book an appointment to open a New Zealand bank account. Of course, the earlier your appointment the better so try to book it for the next day if you can. For more information on opening a bank account, check How to Open a New Zealand Bank Account .

Spend Time with Your New Flatmates

First impressions are important, so spend some time with your new flatmates or homestay family! Not only will it give you the time to relax and settle into your new home, but you’ll also be well on your way to ensure a smooth stay with your housemates. By the way, for more advice for living with other people, check out 12 Tips to Get Along With Your Flatmates .

Day 3 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Open a new zealand bank account.

Go to your bank appointment with a proof of New Zealand address, your passport and a copy of your visa. The latter is not always required but take it just in case.

Order your New Zealand debit card (or EFTPOS card as it is called in New Zealand) with the bank, which you will quite possibly get given to you at your appointment. If you want a MasterCard or Visa, this may take a few days to be available to pick up in the branch.

Bonus : Request a copy of a bank statement with your New Zealand address as a proof of address for your Hospitality New Zealand 18+ Card application (see below).

Transfer Money to Your New Zealand Bank Account

Congratulations on opening a New Zealand bank account! Now you can start transferring your funds from home into your NZ bank account. This may take a few days to go through, so its best to transfer funds as soon as you open your account. There are a number of ways to do this, which we detail in How to Transfer Money to Your New Zealand Bank Account , but the cheapest way we have found to do this is through a foreign exchange broker, like XE Money or Wise , which is free to use for your first transfer.

Day 4 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Apply for a kiwi access card.

There are only three forms of ID that you can use to prove your age in New Zealand: a New Zealand driver license, passport or the Kiwi Access Card. To reduce the risk of losing your passport, apply for the Kiwi Access Card, formerly the Hospitality 18+ Card, by filling out an application form at a Post Shop and provide the appropriate evidence and fee. Find out how to do all that in How to Get an ID Card in New Zealand .

Do Some Shopping

By this point, you’ll probably have released what you have forgotten to pack or what you might need for the rest of your stay. Find some cheap deals and know what to expect from shopping in New Zealand with Outlet Shopping in New Zealand: Grab a Bargain! and Tax System in New Zealand: What is GST?

Go to University Events

On the week leading up to the official start of the semester, or during the first week of the semester for some universities, there will be events around the university campus. This is a great opportunity to socialise and make new friends and the university so take every opportunity!

Day 5 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Enrollment and orientation.

When you received your acceptance for studying at a New Zealand university, you will have received details on your enrollment day and orientation day. These events usually span over two days and provide you with loads of information to help you settle into life as a student at your chosen university and life in New Zealand. Orientation days are compulsory for international students so make sure you attend.

For completing your enrollment, your university will request that you bring the appropriate paperwork along with you which usually includes your passport, student visa, English language results and insurance documents. (By the way, if you haven’t sorted your insurance out yet, take a look at this affordable student insurance on OrbitProtect – a New Zealand-based insurance provider). After you have enrolled, you will receive your student ID.

Day 6 of Being an International Student in New Zealand

Explore and have fun in your university city.

Part of the studying abroad experience is all about exploring a new place! Don’t wait around to start exploring, especially since the last few days will have been pretty stressful. Don’t know what to do? Here are some suggestions for things to do in the main university cities of New Zealand.

• 14 Free or Cheap Things to do in Auckland
• Top 10 Natural Auckland Experiences
• Auckland City Centre – Guide for Backpackers
• 14 Free or Cheap Things to do in Wellington
• Guide to Wellington Nightlife
• Wellington City – Guide for Backpackers

Christchurch

• 15 Free or Cheap Things to do in Christchurch
• 7 Tips to Have a Great Time in Christchurch
• Christchurch City – Guide for Backpackers
• 17 Free or Cheap Things to do in Dunedin
• 11 Things to Do in Dunedin on a Rainy Day
• Dunedin – Guide For Backpackers

Find All the Important Shops and Services

While you’re exploring your city, find out where all the local essentials are that you might need during your time here. Where is the local supermarket, medical centre, pharmacy, and, most importantly, coffee shop?!

Day 7 of Being an International Student

Prepare for classes.

Do you have everything you need to start your classes? Your first week of classes will mostly be introductions to each class outlining what the course will cover, assignment topics and deadlines. Through these introductory classes, you’ll get more information on what you need to bring for your classes throughout the semester. However, to prepare, here’s a checklist of things to do:

• Familiarise yourself with your timetable, which you will have been given information on how to access during your orientation. Make sure you know where each of your classes are held on campus and how to get there on time.
• Make sure you have either a laptop/tablet/notepad and pen to take notes.
• If you have received a list of textbooks to read for the course, start finding out where you can buy/borrow them from. If there are copies in the library, get them quick before the rest of the students on your course borrow them! However, it’s unlikely that you will need to physically take these books to your first class, unless told otherwise, so leave the heavy books back at your accommodation.

Take a Deep Breath

Starting a new semester in a brand new country is an amazing opportunity. It will open up amazing opportunities for the future and be a huge boost in character growth. Take a deep breath and get ready to plunge into studying in New Zealand!

More About Studying in New Zealand

How to prepare to study in new zealand, the top new zealand universities for international students.

• Who Are The New Zealand People?

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• MBIE Immigration and Workers Rights (Working rights in New Zealand - Updated [2024])
• Immigration New Zealand (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2024])
• Stats NZ (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2024])
• Council websites (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• New Zealand Customs Service (Customs and Biosecurity - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and approved by Robin, who is the co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. With more than 15 years of experience in the New Zealand tourism industry, Robin has co-founded three influential tourism businesses and five additional travel guides for South Pacific nations. He is an expert in New Zealand travel and has tested over 600 activities and 300+ accommodations across the country.

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International

New Zealand’s border has been reopened for eligible travellers to enter the country. This means international students can apply for their visas to study in New Zealand.

Information for prospective international students  

The government agency Education New Zealand provides a variety of useful information for prospective international students who want to study with New Zealand. The site also has a database of courses and scholarships available. 

Study with New Zealand (external link)

We recommend international students sign up to NauMaiNZ, the information portal run by Education New Zealand . This is a good way to stay up to date with general information about studying and living in New Zealand. 

NauMaiNZ – Study in New Zealand (external link)

Education providers will have relevant information for prospective students. In the first instance, we recommend you visit the websites of the education providers you are interested in studying with to check their entry requirements and determine if you are eligible to study there. 

Regulations to support international students  

The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021 supports the wellbeing of tertiary and international learners enrolled with New Zealand education providers.

The N ew Z ealand Q ualifications A uthority (NZQA) is the Code of Practice Administrator. This means that they are responsible for monitoring and supporting providers to give effect to the Code. You can read more about the Code of Practice.

Tertiary and International Learners Code of Practice – NZQA (external link)

The International Student Contract Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS) resolves contractual and financial disputes between international students and education providers. You can read more information. 

Regulations to better support international students

Useful resources for international students and visitors 

For the definition of a Domestic Student in New Zealand, refer to:  

Definition of a domestic student in New Zealand

To learn more about the New Zealand education system, check out:

Education in New Zealand

For information about exchanges in New Zealand see: 

International student visitors

For information about Eligibility to Enrol refer to:

Circular 2020/08: Eligibility to enrol in New Zealand schools

For guidance on delivery of education offshore refer to: 

Guidelines to the Offshore Delivery Programme Rules – NZQA (external link)

General information about scholarships for international students is available at: 

New Zealand scholarships – Study with New Zealand (external link)

For visa and immigration queries, refer to:

Immigration New Zealand website (external link)

Last reviewed: 08 January 2024 Has this been useful? Give us your feedback

International Student Tours

Kia Ora and Welcome. Join us on one of our New Zealand International Student Tours and you will experience school holidays you will never forget – safe, adventure packed, maximum fun tours, led by kiwi experts.

Pricing and Conditions

http://studenttours.co.nz/?page_id=52

Find Cancellation policy here: http://studenttours.co.nz/?page_id=52

Kia Ora and Welcome. Join us on one of our New Zealand International Student Tours and you will experience school holidays you will never forget – safe, adventure packed, maximum fun tours, led by kiwi experts. •Awesome activities – kayak, sail, horse ride, learn the haka •Meet other international and kiwi students & make new friends •Explore stunning, exciting New Zealand NZdirect – International Student Tours are organized by our experienced, competent and dedicated staff to give international students a unique travel experience.

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This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations. Please contact this business for more information. See also: newzealand.com terms of use (opens in new window) .

• Offering a place to international students

Anyone wanting to study a course that’s longer than 3 months in total duration must apply for a student visa. To meet the criteria for a student visa, most applicants will need to provide an offer of place from a New Zealand education provider.

Bringing international students to New Zealand

• Education provider requirements and obligations

Studying a short course (3 months or less)

Students wanting to study one or more short courses, approved or exempted by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA), for up to 3 months in total don’t need a student visa. These students will not require an offer of place.

School-age visitor visa holders can attend primary, secondary or intermediate school for a single period of study for up to 3 months per calendar year. However, they can’t study in term 1 of a school year if they took a single period of study in term 4 of the previous year. Also, if attending for more than 2 weeks, or paying fees to attend, they must enrol at a school that is a signatory to the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students. School age visitor visa holders, studying up to 3 months, do not need an offer of place.

Studying a longer course for more than 3 months

Any student wanting to study in New Zealand for more than 3 months requires a student visa. School-age students can attend schools that are accredited by the Ministry of Education to offer education to international students.

Accredited state and integrated primary and secondary schools must place New Zealand domestic and MFAT-funded NZ scholarship students first. If they still have places available after this, they can offer places to full fee paying international students.

Private primary and secondary schools can offer places equally to New Zealand domestic and international students.

Courses offered mainly for international students must be approved by the NZQA. Education providers must register with the NZQA to offer an approved course. All schools offering courses for more than 3 months must have signed the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students.

Private Training Establishments must be registered with, and accredited by, the NZQA to offer courses to international students. They must also offer approved courses.

Universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and wānanga must be accredited to offer courses to international students. They can only offer courses to international students where this doesn’t deprive a New Zealand or NZAP student from gaining a place.

Student requirements

Overseas students must meet certain criteria, as well as ongoing conditions, to get a visa to study in New Zealand. Education providers have an important role to play as part of a student’s application process. Students require an offer of place from a New Zealand education provider, as well as evidence they have accommodation arranged through the provider, if applicable.

Making an offer of place

Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students

Check a visa’s criteria and conditions

There are also different criteria and conditions to meet depending on the type of visa applied for. You can familiarise yourself with our various visas as well as search for a particular visa and its conditions on our site.

Study Visa Factsheets

International &

Domestic students, northland | maximum fun.

This popular surf tour is for international and domestic students only! Being totally mobile allows us to experience many different beaches to test out your surfing skills, it's as though nature designed the Northland coastline with surfers in mind.

We'll be surfing the Northland/Far North during the day and at night we'll stay in one of the many awesome backpackers or campsites sharing tales of the day’s adventure. Whether you're a beginner or intermediate surfer this adventure is packed full so bring lots of energy. Open to International and Domestic students aged 13-17 years old.

Suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers.

About the Surf Tour

Where do we surf, not just surfing.

We'll explore remote Nothland beaches where you'll experience the joy of surfing in uncrowded conditions. Days will be packed full chasing the best waves to surf. Beaches include:  Tutukaka Coast, Rawara, Hendersons Bay, Matauri Bay, 90 Mile Beach, Taupo Bay, Tapotupotu

Not just surfing!  During our tour we'll be sightseeing and doing lots of fun things like volleyball, yoga, sand-boarding Te Paki dunes, Cape Reinga, hot-pools. Of course you're allowed to chill and catch a few rays.

What is included?

What to bring

6 Days | 5 nights Accommodation

2 Surf Lessons 2 per day and ongoing coaching

All equipment is provided including surfboards & wetsuits 

Transportation: Comfy surf van or similar

Small Backpack with clothes, toiletries, sun screen 

Sleeping Bag, towel & drink bottle

Food for cooking, we’ll provide cooking oil, salt/pepper, washing up liquid (we'll stop at the supermarket)

Lots of Energy…this tour is packed full!

When & how much?

6-day surf tour | $895.

Our 6-Day Surf Tours take place during the school holidays

out of town students you will need to book return buses, we can let you know ones to book. The cost for the 6-Day Surf Tour is $895

6 Day Surf Tour Dates

14-19 April 2024 - Fully Booked

21-26 April 2024

7-12 July 2024

14-19 July 2024

Weekend Surf Tour | $350 (Auckland students only)

Our weekend surf tours will take place on Matakana Coast where we have a number of beaches to surf. The weekend will be packed full with two surf lessons per day, morning markets, sightseeing & more.

Weekend Surf Tour Dates

11-12 May 2024

25-26 May 2024

8-9 June 2024

22-23 June 2024

Please get in contact for more information, if your an international student you will need to get permission from your international teacher so please provide their email

PO BOX 403070, Ngunguru, 0154

e [email protected]

m 027 734 4877

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Frequently Asked Questions

Our contact details:, nzdirect – international student tours.

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Newsletter, Edition 4, 2024

Newsletter Edition 4, Term 2, 2024

• Principal’s Message
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• International Students’ Homestay
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Previous 2023 Newsletters:

• Edition 1, Term 1 Week 2 2024
• Edition 2, Term 1 Week 5 2024
• Edition 3, Term 1 Week 11 2024

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Coming soon.

University develops new programme to become a midwife

The programme was initiated in response to chronic midwifery workforce shortages.

06 May 2024

In celebration of International Day of the Midwife, the University of Waikato has today announced its plans to offer a new graduate-entry midwifery programme .

New midwifery programme is expected to begin in 2025

Professor Jo Lane, Dean of Te Huataki Wairoa School of Health says that the University of Waikato is committed to meeting the health workforce needs of our region and to working in collaboration with local health stakeholders.  

“One of the country’s biggest health workforce shortages is in midwifery, where it is estimated we need to increase the current workforce by 30 to 40 percent. As a University, we stand firmly behind our motto, Ko Te Tangata – For the People. So when we were approached about developing a new midwifery programme, we had to act.”

Professor Jo Lane

While the new graduate-entry midwifery programme will be a first in Aotearoa, Professor Lane says that graduate-entry Master’s degrees like this are an increasingly common model of education.

“Internationally, graduate-entry programmes have been successfully delivered for decades for a wide range of health professions, including midwifery. As a country, we already have graduate-entry programmes in nursing and physiotherapy, and next year the University of Waikato expects to be delivering New Zealand’s first graduate-entry pharmacy programme,” Professor Lane says.  

Professor Lane says that with many people now pursuing multiple careers throughout their working lives, the need for new models of education that enable career change has never been greater. This is a key theme of last year’s Health Workforce Plan 2023/24 by Te Whatu Ora and Te Aka Whai Ora, which concludes:

We need pathways that are adaptive, with easy transfer of skills between health professions and careers.  

Experienced local midwife and owner of the Waterford Birth Centre, Tracey Aubin, thinks the new programme will help to attract new students to the midwifery profession.  

“Many people become interested in midwifery at a later stage of life. This new programme provides an accessible pathway for other health professionals to become midwives, recognising their background skills and experience. It’s great to have a programme like this to complement the existing traditional Bachelor of Midwifery programmes.”  

The programme is expected to begin in 2025, with an initial cohort of 20 students.  

• School of Health

Midwifery programme

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