By Fred LeBlanc, Resident Director & Maggie Aldworth, Site Specialist
With so many incredible places to study abroad in New Zealand, what sets Wellington apart? Could it be the creative culture the city is known for? The wide range of fun things to do in between classes? Or maybe it’s the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere students love. No matter where you’re coming from, you’re sure to be swept off your feet by Windy Welly. Here are just a few reasons why New Zealand’s uber-cool capital should be your study abroad destination.
The Coolest Little Capital in the World
Wellington is the cultural, political, and movie-making capital of New Zealand. It’s young, vibrant, funky, and quirky. There’s a reason it’s called the ‘Coolest Little Capital in the World’ and Deutsche Bank named it the most livable city in the world two years in a row! There’s truly something for everyone: coffee shops, film and comedy festivals, craft beer and food festivals, cuisine from around the world, and the friendliest people you’ll ever encounter. It’s a big city with everything you’ll need, yet it still manages to maintain its small-town charm
Location, Location, Location
Wellington’s prime location on the southernmost point of the Cook Strait makes it easy for students to travel around the country. You can take a road trip to the South Island, hop on a plane and visit Australia, or even check out the nearby Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia. If you’re looking to stay closer to home, you can explore the Waitomo Caves, visit the Hobbiton movie set, or hike in one of the North Island’s national parks. No matter what type of adventure you’re seeking, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in and around Wellington.
Universities for Everyone
The universities in Wellington welcome international students with open arms and offer heaps of courses to take in a variety of subjects. Between Massey University and Victoria University of Wellington, students interested in studying in Wellington won’t have trouble finding a course of study that fits their needs. From Creative Arts to Life Sciences, there are plenty of courses to choose from at these top Wellington universities.
Experiential Learning Abroad
If a student is looking for non-scholastic experiences, ISA also offers global internships in and around Wellington, including placements in unique sectors such as Web Design and Digital Marketing, where interns will develop their marketing and design skills at a local digital agency, and Social Work, where interns will learn skills that help address issues such as rural crime and policy at an advocacy group. For an ISA alum’s perspective on her internship in Wellington, check out this student blog.
Another option for students looking to expand their resume while giving back to the community is to complete a service-learning program in Wellington. Whether you’re looking to engage in community service opportunities in the field of art therapy or community development, there are multiple service-learning programs in Wellington for you to choose from. The best part? Some of these programs allow you to combine a service-learning experience with ISA academic programs, giving you the best of both worlds.
Wellington is nothing short of magical. Students love the creative culture and relaxed vibe of the city. It’s a little piece of paradise where you can grab a cuppa and a Tim Tam, have a sit by the harbor, and feel at home even in a foreign country.
