| At university or an institute of technology your course fees can be up to NZD18, 000 per year for undergraduate study and NZD25, 000 for post-graduate courses. It depends on the course you choose. The cost of living in New Zealand is also cheaper for an International student than in the US and UK. Money goes further, allowing a better standard of living and the chance to experience more in the holidays! Thousands of international students are choosing to study in New Zealand, to explore new ideas in pioneering programmes that will put them at the front in the world job markets of the future. They thrive in inspiring surroundings, alongside New Zealanders, absorbing the attitude and culture that has bred such individual achievers as Sir Edmund Hillary, Neil Finn, Sir William Pickering and Peter Jackson. Back to top Students with a full student visa are permitted to work in New Zealand on a casual basis for up to 15 hours a week during course time, and can apply to work full time during vacations. This earning potential makes it much more affordable for students who need to fund part of their studies through work. There are many employment possibilities for those wishing to work. New Zealand is a beautiful and sparsely populated multicultural nation with a population of approximately 4 million people. Most New Zealanders are of British or European descent, with approximately 18% of the population having Maori or Pacific Island origins. There are also large numbers of other nationalities in New Zealand and recently, increasing numbers of people from Asian countries have taken up residence in New Zealand. New Zealand has a distinct culture and heritage. Lifestyles are generally more relaxed and informal than in most other developed countries and New Zealanders are self-reliant and practical, open and hospitable. They also value their families and their leisure time. NZ is a very sports-oriented country; most New Zealanders take part in or watch a wide variety of games. The best-known sports are rugby and cricket, with netball, badminton, squash, skiing, tennis, basketball, athletics, soccer, and hockey also very popular. Back to top New Zealand offers some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes on earth. You can experience the sights of high snow-capped peaks with high glaciers, steep-sided fjords, ancient beech forests, a wild coastline with unusual wildlife, long deserted sandy beaches, alpine meadowlands, wide open sheep country, bubbling hot springs, green lush rainforests and a great deal more. New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords and lush rainforests. New Zealand has a population of only 4 million - making it one of the world's least crowded countries. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrill seekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it ideal year-round so far as climate is concerned. New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, so January and February are the warmest months, autumn is from March to May, winter from June to August, and spring from September to November. In summer, the average maximum temperature ranges between 20-30ºC and in winter between 10-15ºC. Back to top New Zealand consists of two main parts known as North Island and South Island. North Island: Auckland Try not to think of Auckland as a city, even though it’s New Zealand’s largest. Think of it as half urban, half marine - a cosmopolitan experience wrapped up in a fascinating water world that’s dotted with over 50 islands. Auckland’s amazing geography and warm, humid climate has inspired a lifestyle that’s regularly ranked in the world’s top ten. In just half an hour you can be almost anywhere - sailing to an island, trekking through the rainforest, picnicking on a volcano, sampling wines at a vineyard or wandering a wild, black-sand surf beach. Auckland’s layout makes it easy to jump quickly from one theme to another. North Island: Wellington The Wellington region is located at the centre of New Zealand and includes New Zealand's capital city - Wellington. A city experience that will reveal the creative, political and cultural nature of New Zealand, but still provide blockbuster scenery. High-energy enjoyment is the theme for Wellington. The city is compact and interesting, nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush-clad hills. Made up of four quarters, each with their own distinct mix of shopping, cafes, transport and accommodation, Wellington's intense urban experience is unrivalled in the country. Wellington is a great city for students. It is very compact -- walking is one of the best ways to get around. Wellington is friendly, relaxed and cosmopolitan, with a vibrant 'cafe culture' and nightlife, yet is safe, affordable and easy to get around. South Island: Christchurch Christchurch is the South Island's largest city. It’s a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions. This city is alive with colour, atmosphere and world-class attractions. It's a place known internationally for its spectacular gardens. Here you’ll find a fresh experience each day. Back to top | 
