Exchange Study in New Zealand

New Zealand is a state located in the Pacific Ocean in the southern hemisphere, named after the Dutch province of Zeeland. Polynesian settlers arrived in New Zealand around 1280 [1] and established the Maori culture. The Maori named New Zealand “Aotearoa”, which translates as “Land of the long white cloud”. This name was given because of the long white cloud that the Polynesians saw on the horizon near New Zealand as they approached.

As a country that begins with letter N according to Trackaah, New Zealand consists of two large islands, called the North Island and the South Island and a number of smaller islands, among others. Stewart Island and Chatham. From the northern tip of the North Island to the southern tip of the South Island there are 1600 km. The country lies between 30 and 50 degrees south latitude. Denmark is located at about 56 degrees north latitude. The North Island is thus antipodic to Spain.

Because New Zealand has been isolated from every other country for many millions of years, wildlife has evolved almost independently of all other places and has specially adapted to life in New Zealand.

About 80% of the population is of European descent. Maori are the second largest ethnic group with 14.7% of the population. In the period between the 1996 and 2001 censuses, the number of people of Asian descent grew to 6.6%.

  • CAPITAL CITY: Wellington
  • LANGUAGE: English
  • CURRENCY: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
  • AREA: 268,021 sq. Km
  • POPULATION: 4,701,510

People and community

You will most likely live in a rural area, e.g. a farm where you can feed cattle and milk cows. New Zealanders love to be outside and you can expect that much of your family time will be spent in the garden, on the beach and on walks. You must expect to have to help in the house.

Schooling

You will most likely go to a public school and have subjects like math, English, art and science. You also have the opportunity to study topics such as agriculture, film, digital art and outdoor life. According to TopSchoolsintheUSA, there are plenty of sports clubs, Maori cultural groups, choirs and drama clubs to attend.

Language

New Zealand has three official languages: Maori, English and Sign Language. English is the dominant language in New Zealand as it is spoken by 98% of the population. It is very similar to Australian-English and New Zealanders speak very fast. Many Maori words are also used. It will be helpful to have a basic knowledge of English. You have the opportunity to attend English language courses at some local schools.

Food

Many cultures moved to New Zealand during the 19th century, and the food is a reflection of the migration from European to Asian and Middle Eastern. Local food is known as the Pacific Rim and includes fresh meats, dairy and products inspired from around the world. New Zealanders tend to eat a lot of meat, but it is also easy to live as a vegetarian. Traditionally, New Zealanders love fish and chips, roasts and desserts like Pavlova; a meringue-based cake. There are plenty of cafes and it is common to eat out. You can even experience a traditional Maori feast, called a hangi .

New Zealand