New Zealand

Called Aotearoa, the “land of the long white cloud,” by Maori settlers, New Zealand is a land of subtropical forests, active volcanoes, glaciers, and spectacular landscapes.

Orientation and Maori Culture

Spend your first few days in Auckland learning about the culture and history of New Zealand. Navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods, enjoy a traditional Hangi meal, and learn the history of the Pakeha (European) and Maori cultures. Then, visit a traditional marae to listen to chants that retell Maori warrior legends and play games used to test agility before entering battle.

Homestay on the North Island

Your host family welcomes you and shows you around Feilding, a charming town in the midst of sheep and cattle ranches. Join in your family’s daily activities and pick up new Kiwi words and phrases.

Sample activities: Watch a performance of ancient song and dance at a traditional Maori meetinghouse; go “tramping through the bush” with your homestay family; learn how to shear sheep; see wool-spinning in action; visit glowworm caves.

Community Service

The first country to start a national rainforest reforestation project, New Zealand is the perfect place to participate in a weeklong community service project that helps rejuvenate the land.

Sample service projects:
Plant trees and preserve native vegetation in a nature reserve; work under the guidance of New Zealand’s Conservation Department; build handicap-accessible trails in a nature park.

Eco-Adventure on the South Island

Cross the Cook Strait to explore the massive glaciers, jagged snow-capped peaks, and crystal blue alpine lakes of the South Island. For 10 days, travel by private bus through stunning national parks, charming towns, and along the picturesque coastline.

Sample activities: Explore art galleries and theaters; take a guided glacier walk; plunge into a thermal creek; experience “underworld innertubing”; mountain bike, rock climb, or rollerblade; snowboard or ski in the southern Alps; whalewatch off the dramatic northeast coast; visit Abel Tazman National Park.