New Zealand – your next exchange destination
New Zealand: The country you should know and especially make your visit your next exchange destination! Today Teacher Pati tells you why.
This country, made up of two islands, located southeast of Australia, is a country that still remains somewhat mysterious.
Many people when asked about New Zealand think of mountains and sheep, but this country is much more than that.
During this last summer holiday in Japan, I and five other students were able to see New Zealand with our own eyes and confirm that this is a country that certainly deserves to be better known.
We spent 21 days in the metropolis of Auckland. Despite arriving in the middle of winter, we managed to go out EVERY DAY to do something different.
Because winter in the country is not so harsh, we were able to venture out into the streets and see different places.
If you're a winter fan, the South Island has countless ski resort options. For those who love London and European vibes, Auckland offers the same energy with double-decker buses, fancy cafes, fish and chips on the menu and countless museums. And what museums! With exuberant, exquisite architecture and super interactive areas, they would certainly capture the attention of even students who are less familiar with history.
Comparing to Europe, we could say that you come out ahead in terms of treatment, unlike the bad reputation of Europeans, “kiwis” are very welcoming and affectionate.
We were very well looked after everywhere, Kiwis are known for their welcoming atmosphere and are always happy.
As in Brazil, you can easily have a conversation with any native speaker.
For those who prefer the outdoors, this country needs to be your next destination. A country that was the setting for the films “The Last Samurai” and The Lord of the Ring, for example, this land is full of breathtaking landscapes.
Even without leaving the city of Auckland, we went hiking 3 times, 2 of which were on the Eden and Rangitoto volcanoes, which gave us wonderful photos!
We use all means of transport: electric scooters, buses, trains and ferries. All are easily accessible and satisfactory in terms of cleanliness and value, whether on two wheels or on the sea, there is no shortage of ways to explore.
The vast majority of signs there were in English and Maori as well. Bus stops are announced in both languages and the Maori are part of society, even anchoring TV shows despite their tribal tattoos on their faces. I highlight this because it would be unthinkable in other countries, such as Japan.
Being a relatively “isolated” country in a corner of the world, New Zealand has unique flora and fauna! Home to the Kiwi bird, the only species of bird without wings, we were able to see it up close in what I considered the best zoo in my life, the Auckland Zoo.
Auckland Zoo is a zoo where you can see the love between man and animals, with several areas where you feel like you are part of the animal's habitat.
This zoo has won our hearts and restored my view of zoos in general. During your visit, you will receive a schedule with times for the “zookeeper talk” where the zookeeper will teach you a little more about the animals.
Students also had the unique opportunity to hold an ostrich egg at one of the local presentations.
Finally, if I could define Aotearoa (New Zealand, in Maori) in one word it would be “Caring” for all the affection they have for their guests and visitors, for their flora and fauna, for their people, for their roots!
Feeling cared for, experiencing a new culture, doing things outside of our “normal”, this is what exchange is about, expanding feelings, knowledge and horizons.
It's living and learning about the world around you!
Don't miss out on this experience. Putting New Zealand on your itinerary will definitely leave you wanting more!
By Teacher Pati and Spring Your Life!