University of Auckland

New Zealand from a Student Perspective

November 2, 2008

Mmmm…delicious! Licking my fingers, I devoured another delectable pastry. Literally almost any street has a small bakery of sorts. (I’m in carbohydrate, sugary heaven!) I particularly liked Pavlova, which incidentally was named after a famous Russian ballerina. It’s a dessert made of meringue, whipped cream and topped with kiwi fruit.

Delightful! I gained some so-so pounds. But I didn’t really care. I vowed that I will taste and savor any dish, fruit, dessert there are!

I came to study in New Zealand a few days ago, but I fell in love with everything almost at once.  I came to study initially, but every trip I made outside the university was greeted with gastronomic and sight-seeing delights. I compare it as being in a spa all day; I can take refuge anytime with the beautiful post-card worthy surroundings and indulge with delicious culinary offerings.

But aside from all that, New Zealand has world-renowned educational excellence. That’s why I chose to be here. Basically, there are universities that are known from a certain specialized course like in Auckland, the top university that offers and is famous for Applied Humanities. You can literally search at your fingertips the universities that you like to attend.

I, on the other hand, enrolled in AUT IH’s Health & Environmental Sciences. Being one with nature, it’s not hard to be immersed on it. The strict standards ensured that on my first day I was in the same English standards with my fellow students which I preferred; at least I would be more comfortable.

New Zealand has become the popular destination for most students looking for finest education. I just clicked on this link: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/study/canistudyinnewzealand/

There were some things you have to keep in mind though. If you plan to stay for more than three months, secure a Student Permit Visa, pass the health requirements, and clear citizenship. It’s also practical to research first on the course you desire to take, and from there check out the best university that specializes in that area.

Also see if they can offer FREE scholarship. (Currently there are Up to 100 doctoral and 100 undergraduate students currently studying under the scholarship programs) Most of them are very willing to help you out in finding and securing places for you to stay. Many offer cost-friendly inns or dormitories (if you uncertain to stay in a local home).

I am sure that you would fall in love (just as I did) and maybe stay here for good.

Maria Sabino

Walks and Trails

June 28, 2008

The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other is the best way to appreciate New Zealand’s pristine outdoor environments. By spending time on tracks and trails, you can use all your senses to absorb the extraordinary beauty of national parks, conservation areas, coastal zones and forest reserves.

9 Great Walks of New Zealand

9 great walks of New ZealandThere are no walks on earth quite like the nine Great Walks of New Zealand. Find out which walk is best suited for you and see highlights of other visitor’s walking experiences.

Read more about the 9 great walks of New Zealand here

Often you’ll be faced with a number of choices. Do you want to walk for 30 minutes, three hours or three days?

Our national parks have vast networks of tracks that make it easy to find a walking experience that matches your fitness level and the time you have available.

Or maybe you’re coming to New Zealand with a particular walking adventure in mind - like the Milford Track in Fiordland or the volcanic Tongariro Crossing in the North Island.

Take your pick from a multitude of intrepid on-foot adventures that will entice you to journey far beyond the reach of civilisation.

Copyright : 1999-2008 Tourism New Zealand, the official website of the New Zealand Tourism Board.

Photo: A walk in the park. Step out onto the land and discover the spectacular beauty of the Southern Lakes region. From short walks to overnight hikes, there are well-marked hiking trails to suit all levels of outdoor experience. Professionally guided walks provide insights into the area’s fascinating history, geology and plant life. Region: Lake Wanaka

Photographer: Lake Wanaka Tourism (www.lakewanaka.co.nz)