Thanks to its rich Māori heritage, majestic natural wonders, extreme sports and an English enriched with a particular accent, New Zealand is a fantastic place to study English.
- Kiwis
Kiwi is the nickname used to identify native New Zealanders and owes its origin to the national symbol, the indigenous kiwi bird (not the fruit!). Locals live extremely relaxed lives. They are very friendly and welcoming, and have an unbridled passion for extreme sports. It is a great place to study, considering that you will easily find interlocutors and you will be able to practice your English daily.
- The Kiwi language
Kiwi English is a fun and fascinating mix of British English and local Māori terms. Kiwis invented words like ‘jangles’ (flip flops, flip flops), “dunny” (toilet, bathroom) or “ta” to say thank you. You will also hear expressions such as “kia ora” (pronunciation: key-or-a) which is the Māori equivalent of hello, or “Tiki tour” which indicates a scenic route.
- Excellent education
New Zealand boasts one of the best education systems in the world. Eight universities in New Zealand have even been included in the QS World University Rankings, such as the University of Auckland and the University of Otago. If you want to stay in New Zealand for more than a few months, improve your English and then apply to best universities in the country, I assure you that it is definitely a great idea.
- Rich Māori culture
Although it has often been sidelined in the past, Māori culture has become an increasingly important part of New Zealand identity and a true source of pride. The indigenous ‘tangata whenua’ arrived on the island from a legendary Polynesian land and now about 15% of the population can boast Māori origins. The famous traditional Māori dance known as Haka – made famous by the national rugby team, the All Blacks – leaves everyone in admiration of its strength, originality and cohesion.
- Extreme sports
New Zealand is undoubtedly the best place to channel the fearless explorer that we all have within us (and sometimes we lose track of). You can try your hand at skydiving, bungee jumping, canyoning, rafting, jet boating, zip lining and off-road driving, just to mention a few activities that you can do outside of lessons. The fact that the setting for all those super adrenaline activities is so wonderful, is just one more bonus!
- Rugby
The first official rugby match was held in 1870 and has since been considered a national sport. New Zealanders are very proud of their All Blacks team and one of the best – and most fun – ways to get to know the Kiwi culture better is certainly to watch their game.
- Natural spectacles
The natural wonders of New Zealand will take your brealth away. You will see bright caves, beautiful glaciers, sandy beaches, ancient forests, mountainous panoramas and volcanic landscapes … you will always be enchanted by everything that surrounds you. The country seems to have been born for exploration and is undoubtedly one of the best places in the world to embark on a road trip with your friends. I can’t think of any other better way to celebrate weekend free from the chores.
- Unique and unrepeatable wildlife
Many of the mammals and birds found in this part of the world cannot be found anywhere else. The Kiwi bird is one of these creatures and has become a unique and distinctive symbol of the country. You will also be able to see the world’s smallest dolphin species, alpine parrots, yellow or blue-eyed penguins, forest pigeons, sea lions and many other unique species.
- Delicious food and coffee
Like their Australian neighbors, Kiwis are known for their passion for good food and coffee. Be sure to order a flat white in your favorite coffee shop on your way to class and sample some local delicacies such as kawakawa tea, hokey pokey ice cream and Manuka honey as you explore Auckland’s culinary landsca
- The best place to enjoy the sunrise
Ever wanted to be the first person in the world to see the sunrise? While in New Zealand, you can make this dream come true. The East Cape, in the easternmost corner of North Island, is the terrestrial point that welcomes the first sunrise (this happens during the first part of the year; further on, the point moves further north) .