Explore New Zealand | ACG Schools

Studying in New Zealand gives international students the chance to explore beautiful sights and exciting destinations.

Students may be surprised by how much of our spectacular country they’ll be able to explore in their breaks from studying. See stunning scenery and unique wildlife, climb gorgeous mountains, and swim in sparkling lakes and beaches. For a change of pace, try some of New Zealand’s famous adventure sports and activities – from bungy jumping to white water rafting.

Our mild climate means tourism runs all year round. With a good network of domestic airlines, and affordable buses and trains, it’s easy to reach all the experiences, beauty and wide open spaces that New Zealand has to offer.

Auckland

In Auckland, students can bungee jump from the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere, climb a volcano, and go whale-watching. Hop on a ferry from the CBD and visit islands in and around the harbour, or head out to one of the wild West Coast surf beaches.The city is home to a multitude of cafes, bars, and restaurants. On weekends, students can find food festivals, arts and crafts markets, and music shows. If they feel like exploring wildlife, they can visit Auckland Zoo, Butterfly Creek or the Reptile Park.

Hamilton

The city of Hamilton boasts stunning gardens, plentiful shopping and a popular nightlife and restaurant scene, including award-winning eateries and exciting entertainment. In the centre of the North Island, Hamilton students have easy access to iconic attractions such as the Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Caves, and the surf beaches of Raglan. The Waikato also features bush clad mountains, stunning waterfalls and hot mineral pools.

Tauranga

Along the waterfront, The Strand is modern and always buzzing, home to a number of cafes, restaurants and pubs. Fishing, sailing, diving and dolphin tours are easy to arrange. The region offers a full calendar of events year-round, including cultural festivals, sports events, concerts and theatre. A 15-minute drive takes you to popular Mount Maunganui, with ocean-beach swimming and surfing, cycling and walking, and plenty more cafes and nightclubs.

Rotorua

Walking, mountain biking, horse riding, swimming and fishing are some of the best ways to see Rotorua’s wildlife and breath-taking scenery. The area is a geothermal zone with unique mud pools, steam vents and rock formations. Rotorua also boasts a thermally-heated, central city alfresco dining zone known as Eat Street, plus other popular food and craft markets. From Rotorua it is less than two hours’ drive to the ski fields at Mt Ruapehu, and less than an hour to the nearest beach towns.

Wellington

Wellington is known for its lively nightlife and world-class restaurants. The hub of New Zealand’s craft beer revolution, Wellington has experimental breweries and specialist bars popping up all over the city. Home to national museums, galleries and theatres, the city is at the heart of New Zealand’s arts and culture scene.

Christchurch

Christchurch is the gateway to the Canterbury region and the spectacular South Island of New Zealand. There are over 250 events, concerts and festivals held in Christchurch every year. Ski fields, surf breaks, swimming beaches and rivers, cycle ways and walking tracks are all within an hours’ drive of the city.

Dunedin

Historic Dunedin values its heritage, architecture and wildlife. On Dunedin’s doorstep, you will find incredible wildlife, including the world’s rarest penguins and the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross. Dunedin’s student population brings vibrant music, arts and culture to the city.

Studying in NZ

The world-class New Zealand education system is designed to support and encourage creativity and critical thinking at every level.

learn more

Our schools

International students have a choice of top schools.

learn more

Living costs

Learn more about the cost of living during your time in New Zealand.

learn more