Usually when students have the opportunity to study abroad, they think of Europe. Italy, Spain, France and the UK have always been great destinations for a semester of cultural immersion and travel, but if you have an appetite for adventure I recommend you take the path less traveled and head for New Zealand!
Even if you were over Lord of the Rings ten years ago, you’ll still find yourself enchanted by these five aspects of Kiwi Life (and if you are a Tolkien-phile, you probably already have your ticket to New Zealand booked, so these reasons are all icing on top).
1- The Food
The food in New Zealand is diverse, with influences from both Europe and Asia. The seafood is fresher than fresh, (sushi is very popular and incredibly high quality) and the meat is free-range so you’ll find it’s much tastier than what we are used to in the US. Even the milk tastes better, (and therefore so does the chocolate and ice cream). I especially loved the Turkish kebabs and meat pies. Rack of lamb will never taste go good as it does in New Zealand, where the dish is famous. Check out Burgerfuel; with locations around the country and student friendly prices, you can’t miss, even if you are a vegetarian. Additionally, New Zealand is famous for great wine, so if you have a healthy appetite and are an aspiring wino like myself, you’ll be on cloud nine in this country.
2 – The Beaches
From black volcanic sand to pure white stretches of beach that could rival Tahiti, New Zealand’s coast offers renowned surfing beaches (Piha, Auckland), thermal beaches (Hot Water Beach, Coromandel), and dune boarding beaches (100 Mile Beach, Cape Reinga). Whether you seek relaxation or always crave adventure, the perfect beach getaway awaits you in New Zealand. The best part is that beaches are free! As a budget-conscious student, you’ll appreciate any activity that doesn’t break the bank. I recommend a ferry ride to Waiheke Island where you can sample the best varietals at the vineyard and then lounge on Palm Beach—swimwear optional! Is there a better treat after a long week of classes?
3 – The Hiking
To answer the above question: No—unless you prefer scenic hiking instead of sand and sun. The coastal trails and mountain passes of New Zealand are a hiker’s paradise. From the lush Abel Tasman track to the touted Tongariro Crossing, there will never be a shortage of stunning vistas and postcard-worthy panoramas. The landscape changes so quickly too, so you’ll always have someplace new to discover. There’s jungle and geothermal pools on the north isle, then glaciers and the fiords of Milford Track on the south isle. Even if you just want a more casual walk, the Waitakeres (just west of Auckland Uni) are a great escape. If you are studying in Auckland, the view from the top of Rangitoto Island is a must.
4 – The Haka
The Haka is an ancient, dramatic and utterly entertaining dance performed by the native Maori people of New Zealand. The Maori culture contributes a surprising lot to modern life; you’ll see influences in the jade jewelry, tattoos, music and customs around the country. Maori is the second official language of New Zealand, and you’ll see signage in both English and Maori every where you go. If you have the opportunity to visit a modern marae (Maori community center), you’ll be treated to a traditional meal of hangi (meat and root veggies roasted under ground) and definitely see a ceremonial Haka performance. One thing that surprised me was that many of the older generation of Maori still proudly display full face moko tattoos in the traditional designs.
5 – The Adrenaline
It’s totally unacceptable to spend a semester in New Zealand and not partake in some hair-raising thrill. Bungee jumping was developed as a modern sport here, but if you are too chicken to take the plunge, there are plenty of other crazy endeavors. Try paragliding off Ben Lomond in Queenstown, the Shotover Jet speed boat or whitewater kayaking on the Waikato River. Even if you are still scared, there’s Zorbing in Rotorua, where you are tossed into a giant rubber hamster ball and pushed down a hill—doesn’t that sound like some good old fashioned, safe fun? For the ultimate rush, try jumping out of a perfectly good airplane over Lake Taupo. You’ll love how carefree and laid back the Kiwis are about these squeal-inducing activities; they are so chill you’ll find yourself at ease, wondering what the big deal was in the first place.
Whether it’s culture like you’ve never seen before, postcard-like scenery or getting your pulse racing that you desire during your semester abroad, New Zealand will deliver. It’s like nothing you’ll expect and everything you’ll love all in one down under paradise. You’ll love exploring this country so much you may even forget to go to class! Don’t forget to book a hotel in Auckland for your parents for their visit over spring break!
About the author: Noella Schink is a travel writer from Portland, Maine. She had a blast in New Zealand for her semester abroad and hopes that you have a ton of fun too. When you need hotel bookings in New Zealand while you are exploring the country, she recommends Excellent Hotels.
Photo courtesy of Benjamin Earwicker.