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Seeking adventure after study?

91�� — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:17:17 +0000

After all your studying efforts you may want to reward yourself by indulging in some adventure activities with your friends. You’re in luck because New Zealand offers plenty of options. Let’s look at some of the more popular activities in the areas around the location of our schools.

Auckland

or are some of the most popular activities for those seeking an adrenaline rush. If you’re more interested in something equally adventurous but less extreme, consider a . .

Christchurch

and is sure to provide a memorable experience for you and your friends. If a slower paced activity is more appealing to you then consider horse trekking at the . Another popular location that offers various adventure activities is the renowned . .

Dunedin

A Dunedin adventure wouldn’t be complete without a visit to or an ascent up “officially” . Another fun activity that offers a challenge is the escape experience. .

Hamilton

If you’re based in Hamilton then a visit out to the coastal town of Raglan is a must do. Renowned for its famous surf breaks, offering an ideal location to . Also nearby is the famous offering visitors a chance to view glowworm caves that rival a stunning night sky.

Mount Maunganui

This area offers the chance to and also enjoy the local beautiful beaches with activities such as and .

Queenstown

Often branded as the adventure capital of the world, there is no shortage of adventure activities in Queenstown. From bungy jumping, cliff jumping, swinging, skydiving, paragliding, whitewater rafting to jet boating, to name a few. Take your pick! .

Rotorua

Considered the North Island’s hub for adventure activities there’s also no shortage of activities to enjoy. Some of the more popular activities are and . Or head to the for plenty of options.

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English language and pathways into tertiary study in New Zealand

91�� — Sun, 19 Feb 2023 22:05:26 +0000

New Zealand has many providers offering a broad range of courses at tertiary level, including Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees including at post-graduate level.

Acceptance of international students into these programmes requires evidence of English language proficiency, and there is a variety of ways in which students can demonstrate their proficiency in English for further study in New Zealand.

English Language Requirements for entry to different levels of study in New Zealand
The level of English required depends on the type of course and level of tertiary study. Some courses may have different requirements, and you should check with the provider, but the gives a general indication for each English language exam/qualification for each level of study.

Ways to demonstrate English Language Proficiency
Many students take an internationally recognised examination to prove their English language level meets the entry requirement, and 91�� member schools offer courses that prepare students for IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, OET, Pearson (PTE) and Language Cert, for example.

Some member schools also offer the New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL), a non-examination pathway, at Levels 4 and 5 to prepare students for further study.

University English language centres offer non-exam pathways into their undergraduate and postgraduate courses on successful completion of English for Academic Purposes courses, and the 91�� Accredited Pathway Assessment (APA) is also an option for further study at university level.

What is the APA?
91�� has a Memorandum of Understanding with allowing the Accredited Pathway Assessment (APA) to be accepted as evidence of English language proficiency at all eight universities in New Zealand. The APA must be part of an English for Academic Purposes course at a provider accredited to offer this option.

Where can I complete an APA?
is currently our APA approved member, and you can access the APA as part of their English for University (EU) Higher course (12 weeks full time).

What level of English do I need to enrol in this course?
You’ll need to have at least an intermediate level of English to enrol in this course. If you’re not sure if you’re ready, find out by completing one of the internationally recognised English language tests. You’ll need to score at least the following equivalence to enrol in the EU Higher course:

IELTS 5.5
TOEFL iBT 46
PTE 42

If your English is not yet at this level, you can complete a General English course/an EU Intermediate course. Once you successfully complete this course you can then enrol into the EU Higher course.

I have successfully completed an APA, what now?
You’re now ready to jump into further tertiary studies. Once you start the application process for your selected course of study, you’ll also need to submit an APA certificate.

Not sure what tertiary education provider is right for your further studies in New Zealand?
Choosing a tertiary education provider can be a daunting task. Your choice will usually be determined by what you want to study, the level you want to study at, and where you want to live in New Zealand. If there are multiple education providers offering papers on the same subject, then consider listing the characteristics that each location offers and work through that list. If you have the opportunity, visit the campus before committing. You can also ask the registration staff questions about why you choose their institution for your study. Rest assured, New Zealand providers offer excellent facilities and teaching standards. When you’re ready to make your decision, you’ll be on track to complete your studies at a world class tertiary institution. ��

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What are your accommodation options?

91�� — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:17:51 +0000

You’ve made the decision to start your study travel adventure in New Zealand with the plan to improve your English language skills by attending one of our highly reputable 91�� schools. If you’ve no idea where or how to find a place to live while you’re here, don’t fret as there are plenty of options to suit all tastes. Let’s take a look at three of the most popular accommodation options for students.

Homestay

Offering a unique Kiwi experience, this option allows you to live with a New Zealand family, where you get to learn about our culture, access local knowledge and generally have a classic Kiwi experience. It’s also a great environment to learn English as each day you’ll be interacting with the family. Talking with children of the family is great practice as they’re excited to have guests join their family and will use colloquial or everyday language. Here’s a recent quote from one our hosts.

“One of the enjoyable times spent with students is at dinner time when we can sit together and talk about our different family values and expected goals and why they are with us in New Zealand. Board games together are a lot of fun too. We enjoy teaching new games to our students and for them to teach us new ones too,��these usually create a lot of laughing from us all.”

– Colene and Ian

Flatting

This accommodation arrangement is where you share a property with other people. Your “flatmates” will either be fellow tenants or the owner of the property. This is a popular accommodation arrangement here in NZ. The benefits include sharing expenses and getting to live with like-minded people. Some flatting arrangements may require a minimum term that may extend further than your English language course, which may not be ideal for some students that are looking to head off and explore the country after completing their studies. But in most cases, flatting arrangements are flexible and offer a suitable accommodation option for English language students. ��Ask your school or more information about how to find a flat.

Student residence

This is a popular option for those looking for affordable and convenient accommodation while focusing on studying English. These residences are often provided by an education institution and are located close to the campus. This accommodation type can include single or shared rooms, ensuites or shared bathrooms, kitchens and communal areas, bed linen and cleaning services. This can be a convenient and affordable option for students here in NZ.

Now that you’ve learned about our most popular accommodation options for English language students here in NZ it’s time to choose which school is right for you and select the accommodation that suits you.

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Lifting of COVID-19 entry restrictions opens door for more travellers

91�� — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 22:19:04 +0000

On 13 September 2022 the New Zealand Government announced the lifting of all remaining travel restrictions and�� travellers no longer need proof of a COVID-19 vaccination to enter. 91�� schools are now gearing up to welcome an increasing number of English language students looking to enjoy a study travel experience here. For many students the working holiday visa is a great option for travelling around New Zealand; they can take some English language lessons, gain work experience and explore the beautiful attractions on offer throughout the country.��

Working Holiday Visas

Working holiday visas (WHV) are available to people aged 18 to 30, and in some countries you can be aged up to 35. You can travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you are from the UK or Canada.�� Some teachers even use this as a way to gain international teaching experience after they complete their TESOL qualification.��

With this visa you can study one or more courses for up to 6 months. Perfect for visitors looking to attend an English language course here. You can study as many weeks as you want within that restriction, which�� leaves plenty of time to work and explore. A lot of WHV holders start their journey studying English especially if they are not from a country where English is commonly used in everyday situations. This prepares them for the English language challenges they face for the next part of their New Zealand experience, whether that be seasonal work or straight into adventure/exploring mode. Starting with an English course also has the added benefit of providing students with the chance to meet fellow travellers and forge new friendships for the escapades ahead.��

Seasonal work��

After completing their English Language course many travellers are keen to start their work experience with seasonal employment, providing income to cover the expenses associated with their travels. New Zealand offers a range of seasonal work opportunities, particularly in the horticulture sector. After all that hard work it’s time for adventure! With so many options it’s difficult to decide where to start. Here are some must visit attractions in the North Island to get you started.��

Places to visit��

Cape Reinga��
The road trip to Cape Reinga offers its own memorable experience offering scenery of beautiful beaches and harbours. Many start their round trip via state highway 12 through the majestic Waipoua Kauri Forest then connecting with Rawene Ferry across Hokianga Harbour. Arriving at Cape Reinga is a spectacular experience with its panoramic views of two oceans meeting with a swirling dance.��

Te Paki Sand Dunes��
The return journey from Cape Reinga requires a stop at the Te Paki Sand Dunes. Millions of years of sand build up resulting in a place that feels off world with its massive rolling sand dunes. Hire a sand board and spend time sliding down huge sand slopes.��

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Waitomo��
Known for its extensive underground cave systems that light up with its local population of Glow Worms. Over 30 million years ago the Waitomo region was covered in an ocean of sea. Now well above sea level and offering visitors a majestic experience. This is a must do.��

Rotorua��
Renown for its Geothermal activity and Māori Culture. Rotorua was a town built by the government in the early 1880s for tourists visiting the “hot lakes”. Here you can not only enjoy heavenly hot pools but many adventure activities or one of the natural attractions on offer.��

Coromandel��
Famous for its pristine beaches, picturesque forests, and vacation vibes. Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach is a must do when visiting this region.��

With so much on offer here in New Zealand the challenge can be knowing where to start with your travel plans. We suggest starting by exploring the list of schools listed here /students/english-nz-schools/. Find the school that feels right for you and start your journey of a lifetime!��

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Live and Learn English in Auckland, New Zealand

91�� — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:33:03 +0000

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city and home to roughly a third of our total population. It’s no coincidence that it’s also one of the country’s most diverse and vibrant cities, and a popular destination for students coming to New Zealand to learn English.

Let’s dig down into some of the culture, events, attractions, and activities that make Auckland such a great place for students to live, learn English, and experience life down under.

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Where to go in Auckland

Being a harbour city, Auckland is surrounded by wild and wonderful beaches to the west, islands to the east, and farmland and forestry to the north and south.

You can be sipping a flat white (our signature coffee) on K-Road at lunch time, then 30 minutes later being lying on a picturesque beach looking across a body of water to a seemingly deserted island.

It’s hard to know where to start, so here are three very different spots to help.

1. Auckland’s CBD (central business district) and waterfront

Even within Auckland’s city centre there is still so much to encompass. While potentially pushing the student budget to its limits, the Viaduct Harbour is an area worth at least taking a stroll through, if only to admire the harbour views, bars, and abundance of docked boats and yachts.

It was constructed back in the 1990s in preparation for our hosting of the Amercia’s Cup, with the seafaring lineage still alive and well today in the form of sailing charters, jetboat rides, and whale and dolphin spotting excursions.

The Queen Street area is the beating heart of Auckland’s CBD. It’s known for its mix of retail outlets, the striking Civic Theatre, the landmark Sky Tower, and a thriving bar and restaurant scene.

2. West coast beaches

Just under an hour from the CBD are the West Coast beaches that many Aucklanders flock to at the weekend during our summer months (December–February).

Of the six main west coast beaches frequented through the warmer months, Piha is potentially the most popular. A sizable beach that doesn’t feel too crowded even on the busier days, Piha really gives a feeling of freedom, providing an escape from the metropolis of Auckland Central.

Karekare Beach is a more remote option that offers a dramatic landscape which has been captured in multiple films, including New Zealander, Jane Campion’s The Piano. After lapping up the main beach, take a short walk to the scenic Karekare Falls for a nice “woooaaaah!” moment.

3. South Auckland

At the centre of South Auckland is Manukau, home to the largest Polynesian community in the world.

Immerse yourself in the culture with a trip to the on a Saturday morning and be treated to wonderful traditional foods like hangi and coconut bread, and cultural arts and crafts of Māori, Samoan, Tongan and Niuean communities.

After a morning at the market, why not head to — New Zealand’s largest theme park. Or have a more relaxed experience at the .

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Where to eat in Auckland

Auckland is home to Aotearoa’s largest international airport and has long been the first port of call for a large proportion of the people who have immigrated here over the years. This has resulted in the city becoming a melting pot of cultural diversity, which has spilled over into the centre’s culinary offerings.

Stretching beyond our kiwi classic of fish and chips, (or “fush and chups” if you want to throw the accent in there) here are three notable eateries to try in and around Auckland.

1. KK Malaysia is a favourite with students

A student staple in both Auckland and Wellington, has been serving up wholesome Malaysian cuisine for over 15 years.

Visit their Auckland branch, centrally located in the suburb of Epsom, and try the taste explosion that is their sambal eggplant — prawns, chicken and eggplant, perfectly coated in delectable sambal sauce and arranged over steaming white rice.

2. Enjoy an idyllic eating experience at Paradise Indian Restaurant

Arguably the best Indian restaurant in Auckland, serves up “inspired Indian Cuisine.” Dine in at their Sandringham address, or takeaway for a delightful meal at home. We recommend trying their (??? should it be) chilli chicken — a dreamy dish that’s sure to please both your eyes and your palate.

3. Grab an OG Donut Burger at Sneaky Snacky

Labelled a Korean-fusion bite, the OG Wagyu Donut Burger available at Sneaky Snacky must be seen and tasted, to be believed. This unique burger features Wagyu beef, cheese, a kimchi fritter and milk sauce, all sandwiched in their iced house donut!

You can sample it for yourself at , located in the food court outside Lim Chhour Asian Supermarket on Karangahape Road (AKA: ‘K-Road’) in Auckland’s CBD.

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What to do in and around Auckland

Again, there is so much to see and do in Auckland that we’ve done you a favour and picked just three suggestions you can start with.

1. Explore Māori culture

The Auckland War Memorial Museum houses the largest collection of (treasures), with over 1000 pieces ranging from waka (traditional Māori canoe) to small artefacts.

2. Do the SkyWalk and SkyJump at the Auckland Sky Tower

Take to the skies at the Auckland Sky Tower, the tallest and most iconic part of Auckland’s cityscape.

Standing an impressive 328m high, the Sky Tower can get your adrenaline pumping with the SkyWalk — a harnessed walk along a 192m high platform outside the structure — or the SkyJump — a wired jump that sees you drop 53 floors at a speed of 85kph!

3. Walk Aotea Track on Great Barrier Island

Not a Sunday stroll by any stretch of the imagination, walking the is a one- or two-night adventure with hikers lodging in huts and taking in hot springs, canyons and ridges.

While extremely rewarding for committed hikers, this adventure is one best tackled with lots of assistance from your host family or with an activities provider – just ask your school.

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Where to study English in Auckland

Being such as a large city, 91�� has several member schools in Auckland teaching English courses to overseas students.

Visit our Auckland region page to learn more about Auckland and our member schools there.

Image: ‘’ by Chen Kehan via .

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New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Scheme Reopens

91�� — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 01:54:48 +0000

On 14 March 2022, New Zealand reopened applications for working holiday visas for 14 different countries, with many more to follow. Holders of Working Holiday Visas visiting NZ can study up to six months, so this visa is a great option for those who want to learn English in New Zealand.

Visiting New Zealand with a Working Holiday Visa

Working Holiday Visas (WHVs) are designed to help young people from around the world come to New Zealand and experience all that our country has to offer.

Requirements for WHV applicants vary depending on which country you live in, but generally, successful applicants need to be aged 18 or over, can arrive without a job offer, can stay for up to 12 months, and can study for up to six months during this time.

Many WHV holders learn English at an 91�� member school at the beginning of or during their trip. This helps improve their English language skills, helping them gain employment here and in other English-speaking countries or in global companies, and helping them develop as a person.

In addition to improved employment opportunities, learning English in New Zealand can be a once in a lifetime experience with full immersion outside of the classroom complementing your learning within it, lifelong friendships formed, and world-class scenery, activities, and adventures right on your doorstep.

Which countries can apply for a Working Holiday Visa to visit New Zealand?

In March, WHV applications opened to countries including Japan, United Kingdom, Norway, Belgium, Canada, USA, France, and Malaysia. For many countries there is no limit to how many WHVs are approved, while the number of WHVs available to other countries is limited.

5 Things to do during your stay in New Zealand

We have an abundance of things to see and do in Aotearoa with something here to suit everyone. Check out these picks for each island.

North Island (Te Ika-a-Māui)

Go Mountain biking in Rotorua

Located in the North Island’s Bay of Plenty province, Rotorua is world famous for two things: Māori culture and mountain biking.

The world-class mountain biking trails are second to none and easily accessed from the city of 65,901. There’s riding for all levels from beginners right through to professionals, with the annual Crankworx Rotorua festival attracting top riders from around the globe.

Check out for trail maps, bike hire, videos and more.

Try for a choice of guided mountain bike tours around Rotorua. ��

See Glow Worms in the Waitomo Caves

Head east across Te Ika-a-Māui and you’ll find the mystical Waitomo Caves, and extensive underground cave network home to thousands of inspiring glow worms.

You can experience what is arguably New Zealand’s best natural attraction in a few ways: an underground boat ride through the glow worm grotto, a walk through Ruakari Cave, or an exhilarating black water rafting tour down an underground river, off waterfalls, and into fast waters.

Visit Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and home to our national museum — Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa.

Free to enter for everyone (with charges for some exhibitions), Te Papa is busting at the seams with exhibitions and activities that encompass our young nation’s history, technology, art, and culture.

Guided tours can help enrich your Te Papa visit, and there’s no better place to learn about Aotearoa while practising your English language skills.

South Island (Te Waipounamu)

Bend your brain at Puzzling World Wanaka

Wanaka is world-renowned for its alpine scenery and ski resorts, but a more grounded attraction sure to get you thinking is Puzzling World.

What started as a wooden maize back in 1973 is now an award-winning collection of illusion rooms, head-scratching puzzles, weird sculptures, a café, giftshop, and a ‘great maze’ — fun for all ages.

Watch a rugby game in Christchurch

Rugby is our national game and our national team — the All Blacks — are world-famous. A deep pool of talent feeds into the national side via the Super Rugby competition franchises, and provincial team competitions, and the very start of the journey begins in university and school grades.

Catching a live rugby game at any level can be an exhilarating experience and atmosphere. Watching Super Rugby Pacific team, the Crusaders play in front of their Christchurch home crowd is sure to make the hairs on your neck stand up.

Where to study in New Zealand

To learn more about our different cities and where you can study English at an 91�� member school, check out our schools by region, and read our blog for more Aotearoa inspiration.

See you soon!

Image credits: Supplied and ‘’ by Neil hunt via .

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New Zealand Borders Opening to International Students in 2022

91�� — Sun, 27 Feb 2022 22:14:24 +0000

The New Zealand government has announced a five-stage plan to reopen our borders to fully vaccinated individuals. This means international students can start planning their trip to learn English in New Zealand!

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How does the phased approach work differently?

The five-step approach to open the border allows fully vaccinated travellers to enter New Zealand without needing to go into managed isolation and quarantine, or MIQ as it has been referred to.

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When are international students allowed to visit New Zealand?

From 11.59pm on 12 April 2022, up to 5,000 fully vaccinated international students can apply for a border exception to apply for a visa, enter the country and self-isolate for a short time before beginning their study. It is hoped these students can arrive to begin their studies in the second half of the year. Eligibility and application details to come, so stay tuned!

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The five steps in detail

The five steps that make up the phased border reopening are as follows:

Step 1 from 11.59pm on 27 February 2022�� allowing NZ citizens, residents, and other eligible individuals to enter from Australia��if they:

are fully vaccinated.
have spent previous 14 days in Australia or NZ.
have had the required pre-departure tests.

Step 2 from 11.59pm on 4 March 2022, allowing the following fully vaccinated groups to enter New Zealand from anywhere in the world:

NZ citizens and residents.
eligible travellers under .
skilled workers earning at least 1.5x the median wage.
travellers on working holiday schemes.

Step 3 begins at 11.59pm on 12 April 2022, allowing these individuals to enter New Zealand from anywhere in the world:

current temporary work and student visa holders with a valid visa who still meet their visa requirements. This can be visa holders currently offshore, or those in NZ who opt to travel overseas and return.
up to 5,000 international students for July (including 1,000 English language students)

Step 4 by July 2022, the New Zealand border opens to:

Australian citizens and permanent residents, other foreign nationals travelling from Australia.
visitors from .
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders.
Temporary visitor visa holders who are outside NZ, if they still meet their visa requirements.

Step 5 October 2022:

All visa categories will reopen from October 2022, including visitor and student visas.

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What can you look forward to when you arrive to study in New Zealand?

There’s so much on offer for international students learning English in New Zealand. You can enjoy the many tourism, social and cultural activities available. You can connect with students from all over the world learning about their culture, and connect with New Zealanders including the host families you can stay with. You’ll get a very warm welcome and can look forward to a great student experience.

Check out some of the notable spots and activities we included in our December blog, learn about how studying English down under can lead to lifelong friendships, and read up on must-do activities in the regions where we have member schools.

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Images:

‘’ by Stefan Marks via��.

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Study English in New Zealand and enjoy hot Christmas holiday fun

91�� — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 20:35:10 +0000

With a hot Kiwi Christmas on the cards down under, we thought we’d look back at nine things students studying English in New Zealand have enjoyed about their summer holidays in Aotearoa.

Sure, you can’t enjoy them right now with our borders currently closed due to the global pandemic, but we recommend you experience them for yourself as soon as you can join us.

1. New Zealand summers are spent having fun under sun

Because New Zealand is in the southern hemisphere, our Christmas and New Year period falls in the first calendar month of our summer, which runs December to February. This is when students and most workers take their longest holiday.

Temperatures range from 20 degrees Celsius right up to the mid and late 30s and getting outdoors to the beach and beyond is a top priority during this time, with many past students at 91�� member schools travelling in groups or with their host family to see what’s on offer.

The NZ sun is extremely harsh and burn times can be as low as six minutes when the UV factor is at its highest, so is of the utmost importance. Avoid being sunburnt and the related health risks by following the slip, slop, slap and wrap rule.

2. Swimming in the sea, lakes and rivers is a favourite kiwi pastime

The place to be during the New Zealand summer is anywhere close to the water — and being an island country, you’re never too far from an idyllic beach, lake, or river swimming hole. We also have thermal hot pools in different spots around the country.

They’re a great place to hang out and cool off when the heat gets too much. Students studying English in New Zealand will often pack a lunch or picnic and spend the whole day at their favourite swimming spot.

We call our swimming outfits ‘togs’ in New Zealand, so chuck on your togs and get wet! Just make sure you stay safe while you’re having fun — there can be hidden dangers to swimming in New Zealand.

3. Kiwi kai on Christmas day

Countries around the world have their own distinct Christmas cuisine, and New Zealand is no different. The Christmas day kai kiwis tuck into includes the likes of a roast chicken, turkey, or ham with our beloved kumara, potatoes, gravy, and assorted vegetables.

Dessert is usually made up of fruit cake (or Christmas cake as we refer to it), coupled with steamed Christmas pudding and small fruit pies. Pavlova — a big dessert meringue coated with cream and sliced Kiwi fruit — is such a delectable symbol of national pride that Australia tried to claim it as their own!

Kiwis love a barbecue (usually gas-powered), so Christmas — and summer in general — is usually coupled with the aroma of sausages, corn, and more cooking (sometimes burning) on the barbie.

Past 91�� member school students have been lucky enough to eat a traditional Māori Hāngi — meat and root vegetables cooked under the ground by hot rocks. Check out these other Kiwi foods and drinks you could sample at Christmas.

4. Catch the ferry from Auckland to Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is an island paradise just a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, New Zealand’s most populated city. There you’ll find exquisite wineries, cuisine, walking trails and serenity-soaked beaches.

5. Take a dip at Cheltenham Beach, Auckland

And when you get back to the mainland, check out Cheltenham Beach, near the Auckland suburb of Devonport. Free from waves, the beach is an excellent swimming spot and boasts unrivalled views of Rangitoto Island.

See where you can study English in Auckland.

6. Head to the Port Hills above Christchurch

Described as the jewel in the crown of Christchurch (the largest city in the South Island), the Port Hills are home to breath-taking views, adrenaline pumping adventures, and lovely picnic spots. The Port Hills were a popular spot all year-round for our students studying English in Christchurch.

7. Learn about Māori culture and New Zealand’s history in Rotorua

Rotorua is located in the Western Bay of Plenty on Te Ika-a-Māui, New Zealand’s North Island. So full of Māori culture, the city is referred to as a hub of Māoridom and is always an educational and fascinating experience for students of English language courses in New Zealand.

Check out the immersive experience on offer at Tamaki Māori Village where you can taste a hangi and learn a poi dance or haka, or visit Te Puia to see the world-famous Pōhutu geyser, wood carving, harakeke weaving, and boiling mud pools.

Read about student life in Rotorua and see where you can study English.

8. Walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, near Taupō

Covered in snow and ice throughout the rest of the year, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing can be hiked without alpine skills from November to May.

The alpine landscape has been described as lunar and other-worldly, encompassing bright crater lakes, alpine vegetation, ancient lava flows, glacial valleys, steaming vents and incredible views of the Central Plateau and beyond.

Beginning at an altitude of 1120m, the hike is no walk in the park and can take 7–8 hours for individuals of a reasonable level of fitness. Research and preparation are key, so , and speak to your friends and host family before setting off. You may like to find a tourism activities operator to take you there and guide you.

9. Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Wānaka

World famous as a winter location thanks to the excellent snowfields dotted around the ever-present Southern Alps, Wānaka is also a stunning summer destination, as many students learning English in New Zealand have found out.

Amongst the plethora of activities and experiences available in the area, Lake Wānaka and nearby Lake Hāwea are both ideal for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. These more peaceful options can be passed over for more action-packed wake boarding, water skiing or guided rafting tours on Clutha River.

View 91�� member schools located in nearby Queenstown.

Meri Kirihimete and hari raumati!

You won’t be able to make it down under this summer, but not to worry — start researching now and by the time our borders open again you’ll be good and ready for a hot summer Christmas holiday. Look at the different regions where you can study English, and what fun can be had in the area.

If you want to learn English before your trip to Aotearoa, browse our 91�� partner schools who are offering online courses for international students while there is still restricted travel to New Zealand.

Kia kaha!

Images:

‘’ by Stefan Marks via .

‘’ by Samuel Mann via .

‘’ by Sarah Stewart via .

‘’ by Brian Lamb via .

‘’ by Mike Locke via .

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‘’ by Darren Puttock via .

‘’ by Andrea Schaffer via .

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Studying English in New Zealand – Shared Experience Leads to Lifelong Friendship

91�� — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 21:37:50 +0000

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In 2015, Stefanía Ramírez Gutíerrez and Magdala Mora Fuentes travelled to New Zealand from Colombia to study at member schools and blog about their experience as part of an 91�� and Education New Zealand initiative. The Colombian pair, unknown to each other at that time, have formed a lifelong friendship as a result of their time in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

Recently meeting up in Bogota, Stefanía and Magdala reminisced about their time down under and shared the following helpful insights with us, so we can share them with you!

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Preparing to study English in New Zealand

When getting ready to study English in New Zealand, it’s okay to feel nervous. Magdala and Stefanía were both nervous and excited during the build up to their trip to New Zealand back in 2015.

Stefanía was super excited — “As a Latina having the opportunity to cross the world to visit one of the most unknown countries in my region was a tremendous opportunity.”

But also, a little nervous — “I was worried about not being able to communicate or being welcomed but New Zealand people showed me the best part of humanity, and after that, I decided to live abroad.”

Magdala said “I was stunned by the opportunity to travel overseas and be in a terrific country but also trying to answer questions to myself, like: Is it really safe? Will I like the country? How will I feel there? Will I make really good friends? and so on.

“Then, I realized that my English program was the perfect excuse to start a great journey to develop myself in a personal and professional way and learn to worry less about the future.”

However, her mother was doing enough worrying for both of them. Magdala explained, “She was thinking about all the things regarding distance, relations, experiences, family, insurance, Christmas, you know… all the normal mom’s concerns.”

Magdala enjoyed her trip so much that her mother’s worries were quickly put at ease. “I was so totally astonished by the trip itself that my mom felt it and was happy as well after all.”

Stefanía, back in 2015.

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Settling into a host family situation

When students study with an 91�� member school, they usually stay with a host family so they can enjoy a total immersion English language experience. Both girls said that communication was key to settling into the living arrangement and making the most of living with a Kiwi family.

Stefanía said, “Be open and try to go with a positive attitude is important to have the best part of that experience. Settle boundaries and specify any fact that for you will make the experience more authentic and pleasant.”

Magdala’s advice to students going into host family accommodation was to “think that we are the foreigners, not them. It’s easy to think that they should be adapted around us, but it’s the opposite. Being in a host family is probably one of the most exciting parts of the experience because it’s the best way to start living the real Kiwi life. So be open-minded and appreciate all the similarities but also the differences.”

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Making the most of studying in an English-speaking country

One of the advantages of studying English in Aotearoa with an 91�� member school is the full immersion experience, with English used as the medium of instruction. This can be daunting for newcomers, so the girls have some helpful advice.

Magdala said, “It’s totally okay to fail — everybody started to like us, making some mistakes. So, try to put aside the bias against being immersed in hard situations and conversations because it’s the only way to receive feedback and start feeling confident.

“And of course, make many friends from your country but try to avoid speaking in your native language! This is crucial, trust me.”

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Stefanía added, “Make it your priority, let go of any self-doubt and enjoy the fact that if you are already able to have the experience it is because you are ready to have the best of it. Speak, speak, speak as much you can. Don’t be shy!

“Listen to music and attend all the happy hours, conversations, and clubs. Accept someone else’s help when it comes because it is the best way to improve outside of the classroom.”

Magdala in 2015

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What’s it like living in New Zealand as an English language student?

For a small country, New Zealand has a lot to experience while studying English at an 91�� member school. Stefanía stressed the importance of prioritising your studies, but also making the most of opportunities outside the classroom mentioning “The good news is that New Zealand has so much to offer, you can travel and get to know people during the weekends or after school.”

Magdala praised the full immersion aspect of her study location and the role that all her experiences outside of the classroom played in her learning English. “Learning a new language is just the result of living the experience at all times,��meeting new friends, travelling around, learning about cultures, eating delicious food… So, enjoy every little moment, because life at the end is full of those little and important moments.”

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What to do and see while studying English in New Zealand

When it comes to activities and experiences available to you when studying English in New Zealand, the possibilities are endless, and it can be hard to choose.

Stefanía explored Māori culture and our young country’s history during her time in Aotearoa, New Zealand. “I was amazed when visiting Rotorua and I had the opportunity to see traditional Māori wood carving.

“New Zealand is not just a place to improve your English but also to have the opportunity to open your mind to different ways and recognize biodiversity and find sustainable ways of consuming and caring for the environment”.

Magdala thinks the variety of things to see and do in New Zealand is amazing. She says, “You can find everything there! You can find museums, international gastronomy, lakes, mountains, beaches… in just one place. In my personal case, one of my hobbies is hiking so New Zealand was a paradise full of mountains and nature everywhere.”

A kiwi Christmas.

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Favourite memories from learning English in New Zealand

Talking to Stefanía and Magdala about their time in New Zealand, it’s clear they had so many amazing experiences while they were here. We asked them to share just a couple…

Magdala said her Kiwi Christmas stood out. “In Christchurch I stayed with an incredible host family during Christmas, and we spent a couple of days in a house on top of the mountains — I still remember that landscape perfectly.”

It sounds like Stefanía’s time down under has had an impact on the way she’s lived her life ever since her visit. “Being in classes allowed me to discover new sides of my personality I did not know. I can say that most of the classes were fun, and I got to practise my English.

“As a personal anecdote, I can say that the experience in New Zealand helped me to improve not only my English but also to better guide my life project. After NZ I promised myself to travel more and learn more languages. Now I live in Africa as a Spanish teacher, and I am learning French.”

Stefanía exploring Auckland, NZ’s largest city.

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A message for students thinking about studying English in New Zealand

A message from Stefanía: “Go and let yourself discover a new version of yourself. Improving your English will give you more opportunities all around the globe.”

A message from Magdala: “Taking an English program is a perfect excuse to keep learning about life, about New Zealand, and about yourself.

“You can take English lessons online, in your own country but just when you can realise that the opportunities, friends, travels are outside that comfort zone, you can consider yourself as a global citizen and New Zealand is a paradise to make it real.

“So, enjoy every single moment because learning English is the result of living the experience.”��

We also recommend that all students keep a blog or journal of their experience – in English – to help them develop their skills and to give them a written record of their experiences, which they can look back on for years to come.

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Contact Us

If Magdala and Stefanía’s words have inspired you, please get in contact to learn more about studying English in New Zealand.

And if you can’t wait for our border to open, check out our member schools offering online English language courses.

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The post Studying English in New Zealand – Shared Experience Leads to Lifelong Friendship appeared first on 91��.

What is Matariki and what does it mean to New Zealand?

91�� — Thu, 12 Aug 2021 22:05:08 +0000

A significant event on the Māori calendar, Matariki takes its name from a cluster of stars that reappears in the night sky over New Zealand during mid-winter. Made up of hundreds of member stars, it’s one of the brightest clusters found in the sky and signals the Māori New Year.

Known as Pleiades in other parts of the world, the reappearance of the Matariki constellation represents the end of the Māori lunar year and marks the beginning of a new year.

Therefore, Matariki is forever linked with the Māori New Year and is a time of celebration and ceremony in Aotearoa New Zealand.

When is Matariki?

The exact calendar date of Matariki varies each year because it is based on lunar cycles, and different iwi (Māori tribes) begin their Matariki festivities at different times. Normally the Matariki cluster is visible in Aotearoa skies in June or July.

In yesteryear it was celebrated following the harvesting of crops, when food stores — or pātaka — were full.

In 2021, Matariki rose in the morning skies on 2 July, and so began a month of celebration.

How is Matariki recognised in New Zealand?

Historically, Matariki was celebrated with festivities like the making of offerings to the Māori gods, lighting of ritual fires and various celebrations to honour Māori ancestors, farewell the dead, and celebrate life.

In times before technological advances in meteorology, tohunga (experts) would inspect the Matariki star cluster to help predict how fruitful the new year’s harvest would be. Bright and clear stars signalled a warm and plentiful season, while hazy stars warned of approaching cold weather and lacklustre crops.

While our weather predictions have moved on, to this day Matariki stands for a time of transition, allowing families to mourn and honour their loved ones who have passed away in the year just been. The deceased are believed to have transformed into stars which now shine down from the night sky.

How is Matariki officially celebrated in New Zealand?

Large scale, public Matariki celebrations all but stopped in the 1940s and weren’t revived again until the year 2000. Their return was marked with a Hawke’s Bay Matariki festival which attracted 500 people in its first year (2000), then attracted 15,000 just three years later!

During these Matariki celebrations, tangata whenua (people of the land), and an increasing number of non-Māori kiwis, gather to celebrate Māori culture, the year that was, to plan for the future, tell stories, sing songs, share kai (food), and play music.

91�� member schools and students acknowledge Matariki in a range of ways in and out of the classroom.

How can I celebrate Matariki from another country?

If you’re not in New Zealand when Matariki is visible from here, you won’t be able to see it, but that shouldn’t prevent you from recognising and celebrating the Māori New Year in your own way.

You could meet with some friends and take part in some of the activities mentioned above. You could even try cooking your own Hāngi, a traditional Māori meal cooked underground by heated rocks. See our blog about foods and drinks popular in Aotearoa to learn more.

Other ways to celebrate Matariki and learn more about Māori culture include , or — you may have seen the All Blacks do a haka before their rugby games.

Matariki is becoming a national holiday in 2022!

From 2022, Matariki will become a national public holiday in Aotearoa, New Zealand. In 2022 it will be recognised on Friday 24 June, and an advisory group has been created to help decide on the dates for the public holiday in future years, as it will shift each year.

Get in touch to learn more

Drop us a line to learn more about Matariki, Māori culture in general, and learning English with an 91�� member school.

We have been impacted by COVID-19, but remember, we do have a number of member schools who provide online English language courses for international students.

Ngā mihi o Matariki, te tau hou Māori!

Image: ‘.’ By Ian Welch via .

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