Experiencing New Zealand Like A Pro: A Guide for International Students 

Are you an international student planning to study in New Zealand? Congratulations on embarking on this exciting journey! New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm, welcoming locals. To truly make the most of your time in this beautiful country, consider adopting a local's perspective. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential tips and tricks to experience New Zealand like a true Kiwi. 

EMBRACE THE KIWI LIFESTYLE 

New Zealanders, affectionately known as Kiwis, are laid-back and easygoing people who love the great outdoors. Embrace the Kiwi lifestyle by getting involved in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or surfing. You'll find plenty of opportunities to explore the country's stunning national parks, beaches, and forests, often for little or no cost. 

DELVE INTO MAORI CULTURE 

The indigenous Maori culture is an integral part of New Zealand's identity. Take the time to learn about their customs, language (Te Reo Maori), and traditions. Participate in cultural events, visit marae (Maori meeting grounds), and respect their protocols. Understanding Maori culture will deepen your appreciation for New Zealand's heritage. 

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES 

Kiwis take great pride in supporting local businesses, and you should too. Instead of always dining at international chain restaurants, try local eateries and cafes. Visit farmers' markets for fresh produce and seek out boutique shops for unique souvenirs. This way, you'll not only experience authentic New Zealand, but you'll also contribute to the local economy. 

New Zealand has a vibrant market scene, with many local markets held across the country, including weekend markets. Here are some popular weekend markets in different regions of New Zealand: 

Please note that market schedules and locations may be subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check for the latest information before planning your visit. These markets provide an excellent opportunity to support local businesses, indulge in regional specialties, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of New Zealand's diverse communities. 

ATTEND CULTURAL EVENTS AND FESTIVALS 

New Zealand hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. From lively music festivals to traditional Maori celebrations, these events offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Kiwi culture and meet like-minded individuals: 

• Matariki Festival: Matariki is the Maori New Year, and the Matariki Festival is held around late May to early June. It includes a series of events, including cultural performances, art exhibitions, storytelling, and traditional ceremonies, to mark the rising of the Pleiades star cluster. 

• Pasifika Festival: This is one of the largest Pacific Island cultural festivals in the world. Held annually in Auckland, Pasifika celebrates the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands with vibrant performances, music, dance, arts, crafts, and delicious Pacific Island cuisine. 
• WOMAD (World of Music, Arts, and Dance): WOMAD is an international festival held in New Plymouth, showcasing music, dance, arts, and culture from around the world. It's a vibrant and multicultural event that attracts performers and audiences globally. 

• Te Matatini (Kapa Haka Festival): Since you decide to study and live in New Zealand, you don't want to miss this big opportunity to explore the Maori culture. Te Matatini is a prestigious Maori performing arts festival that takes place every two years, featuring fierce kapa haka (traditional Maori performing arts) competitions with groups from across New Zealand. 

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION 

To truly live like a local, opt for public transportation when possible. Kiwis are known for their environmentally conscious attitudes, and using buses or trains is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint while experiencing the country like a true local. 

In major cities like Auckland and Wellington, public transportation uses contactless payment cards. Get an AT HOP card in Auckland or a Snapper card in Wellington from authorized retailers, train stations, or online. These cards allow you to tap on and off buses and trains, making your trips more convenient. 

AT HOP cards in Auckland offer various options, including adult cards, discounted cards for children and students, SuperGold cards for eligible seniors, and day passes for unlimited travel in a day. Additionally, there are monthly passes for regular commuters and single-trip tickets for occasional travelers or visitors. 

As last update in September 2021, the price for an AT HOP card in Auckland, New Zealand, was NZD $10 for the card itself. This price included an initial load value of NZD $5 for travel credit. It's always best to check the official website of Auckland Transport (https://at.govt.nz) or visit a local retailer or transport office to get the most up-to-date information on the cost of the AT HOP card and its associated travel credit. 

LEARN SOME KIWI SLANG 

Kiwis have their own unique slang that might leave you scratching your head initially. Take the time to learn some common Kiwi expressions; it's a fun way to break the ice and connect with the locals on a deeper level. Some of these are: 

• Kia Ora: A Maori greeting used to say "hello" or "thank you." 

• Kiwi: A term used to refer to a New Zealander or the native flightless bird, the kiwi. 
• Sweet as: Means "all good" or "no problem," often used to express agreement or approval. 
• Chur: An expression of approval, thanks, or excitement, similar to "cheers" or "thanks." 
• Bach: A holiday home or small vacation house. 

BE RESPECTFUL OF THE ENVIRONMENT 

New Zealand boasts unparalleled natural beauty, and Kiwis are passionate about preserving it. Always be mindful of the environment and practice responsible tourism. Follow local guidelines, dispose of waste properly, and leave no trace when exploring the wilderness. 

CONCLUSION 

New Zealand offers international students a unique and enriching experience through its stunning landscapes, warm culture, and vibrant communities. By immersing themselves in the local way of life, embracing Maori culture, and participating in cultural events and festivals, they can make the most of their time in New Zealand, creating lasting memories and forging meaningful connections that will stay with them long after their studies. 

As an international student from Vietnam studying in New Zealand, managing your finances and educational expenses can be overwhelming. That's where EzyRemit comes in to make your life easier. EzyRemit offers a specialized education payment service designed specifically for Vietnamese students in New Zealand.  

With our competitive exchange rates, low fees, and quick processing, you can easily receive money for tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational needs. Trust EzyRemit to handle your education payments so you can focus on your studies and fully enjoy your experience in New Zealand. 

Learn more about our Education Payment Service at: ezyremit.com/EducationPayment 

Related content: 

Transcend Boundaries: Enriching Connections through Cultural Experience (ezyremit.com) 

How to Save on Travel Expenses: 7 Budget-Friendly Travel Tips (ezyremit.com)