Whenever we plan to pursue our higher education abroad, we consider numerous factors. These factors include the university’s accreditation, the quality of education, top courses, student life in that particular region, affordability and so forth.
But once we set our foot in a new place, we need a push from within or a lead from the surroundings to connect with the surrounding community. To kickstart your journey of studying in New Zealand and embarking on the next phase of your life in this beautiful country, make sure to be mindful of what to do and what not to do while you are there!
Here are the Dos and Don’ts for you as an international student in New Zealand.
The DOs
So, first, let's look at the dos elaborately and then we'll get to the don'ts:
1. Drive your cars to the left
For those in whose country the vehicles drive on the right side, start getting used to driving on the other side of the road. The steering wheel will be placed on the right side of the car.
2. Find a safe accommodation
One of the mandatory and necessary things to do after or well, at least have a plan about, is the accommodation. You can rent a place within the university campus. They will be available as catered or self-catered. If you are renting outside, make sure it falls into your budget as an international student. Keep your documents ready and safe to accomplish things smoothly. Many cafes and restaurants in New Zealand serve international cuisines, but they may be expensive. So taking a self-catered accommodation and cooking your favourite delicacies may make you feel “home”.
3. Navigate with safety through the city
While exploring a city or an entirely new place, being secure is the first thing one should be conscious of. But New Zealand takes another step in keeping students safe. You will have “buddy partners” in your universities who will be of great help in making you explore the outdoor life and settle there. This is one of the significant points regarding the dos and don’ts for an international student in New Zealand.
4. Socialising is the key
New Zealanders consider hardworking and establishing social connections with people around as high virtues. They believe that socialising and creating a healthy social bubble will keep you thriving with broadened opportunities and exposures to establish a life there. So, come out of your comfort zone and start connecting!
5. Explore the delicacies in the land of kiwis
Maori cuisine has a significant influence on New Zealand’s staple food. The diet includes fish and diverse seafood (obviously, an island country), birds and root vegetables. Other standard food items include meat and potato, which came along with Europeans’ migration. Also, make sure that you try having Greenshell mussels and crayfish for a unique experience! This is a mandatory do as an international student in New Zealand.
6. Pet a sheep
The sheep population is high in New Zealand. Precisely, we can quote that if we compare the flock of sheep with humans, there will be six sheep per person to pet!!! So, if you stay in a private place, feel free to pet these cute fluffy creatures!
And now on to the don'ts...
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The DON’Ts
1. Sitting on tables is a BIG no!
Yes, you read that right. Maori’s culture believes that sitting on the tables or on a platform where food is being served is a hostile gesture and disrespect to our food. So, time to stop your lethargy act of leaning and keeping your legs on the table or chill by lying on them!
2. Littering the surrounding is a significant offence
Although this statement is a global moral, the New Zealanders have stringent conduct to ensure their country is spic and span. So, work on your lethargy again while dumping or throwing the garbage and importance the dust bins. Another must do as an international student in New Zealand- not only there but also wherever you are.
3. Never and ever refer to the New Zealanders as Australians!
The two countries together may be called Oceania in geographical terms but not the people! So, avoid the fun of calling out Newzies as Australians as they are from different countries. If you feel a bit confused about this part, a world map may be of great help!
I hope you are mentally prepared to start or resume your student life in New Zealand! There are various fun elements with significant exposure to education to enjoy your student life! To know more about those, visit our Edvoy site and the Instagram page and kickstart your education journey with us!
