Study in New Zealand: How to make the most of the Weekends?

New Zealand is one of the top study abroad destinations in the world, with globally ranked cities and universities. It hosts thousands of international students every year, providing practical and innovative learning opportunities in a safe and welcoming environment. The country also offers 1-3 years of Post-Study Work Visa, acting as a bridge to get a skilled work permit and further paving the way for permanent residency. 

However, the most standout features of New Zealand are its lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and unique wildlife, all of which make it a top tourist spot. These give you a great variety of options for a quick weekend getaway at affordable prices. 

In this article, we have detailed why it is important to plan outings with your new friends and highlighted the best getaway destinations while studying in New Zealand.


Why Plan Weekend Getaways while Studying in New Zealand?

An essential aspect of your higher education is to balance your studies and social life, for which going out can help you take a necessary break. Here are some reasons why planning a trip can be helpful for your academics. 

  • Diverse Natural Landscapes: You can easily visit mountains, volcanoes, beaches, glaciers, and many more iconic and scenic locations without skipping classes on Monday.
  • Unparalleled Outdoor Activities: New Zealand offers a wide range of activities, including bungy jumping, surfing, skiing, and hiking.
  • Mental Recharge: A weekend outing can give you an escape from your textbooks, letting you recharge and get back to your studies in New Zealand.
  • Cultural Immersion: Experience the unique Māori and other traditions and cultures through various local festivals.
  • Culinary Exploration: The cuisine in New Zealand is a blend of British culture and Pacific ingredients, including dishes such as Hāngī, Roast Lamb, etc.
  • Affordable: Among the main reasons why you can plan an outing in New Zealand is its affordability, due to reasonable transportation and accommodation.
  • Social Growth: Such trips foster independence, build friendships, and help you create memories that span beyond your studies.  
Studying in New Zealand for International Students is not only about academics but also offers a lot of opportunities to venture out with experiences filled with fun activities. Now, let us understand the best weekend getaways. 

Best Weekend Getaways while Studying in New Zealand

As an international student, you have a lot of options to visit for a weekend getaway, ranging from the Southern Alps to various movie sets. These also include international trips, which are just a 3-hour flight away, as we have mentioned below. 

  • Auckland: The ‘City of Sails,’ Auckland is known for its harbors and water activities, offering a blend of natural beauty and urbane lifestyle. 
  • Rotorua: Famous for its geothermal parks and Māori culture, Rotorua is a perfect destination for adventure activities. 
  • Hobbiton: The iconic set where JRR Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies were filmed. 
  • Hamilton: An inland city, Hamilton features public parks and themed gardens ranging from Italian Renaissance to Japanese and Māori traditional styles. 
  • Wellington: Wellington, the capital city, is famous for its museums, coffee culture, and arts festivals. 
  • Queenstown: Queenstown is a city famous for numerous adventurous activities, such as hiking, skiing, etc., and a vibrant nightlife. 
  • Milford Sound: Widely considered the 8th Wonder of the World, Milford boasts dramatic landscapes and waterfalls. 
  • Christchurch: Known as the ‘Garden City,’ Christchurch is a city on the South Island, featuring the scenic Avon River, extensive parks, and is a hub of adventure.
  • Coromandel Peninsula: Located in the North Island, near Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula has stunning white-sand beaches, rugged mountain ranges, and a great holiday vibe. 
  • Abel Tasman National Park: A Wilderness Reserve at the north end of the South Island, this national park is known for its extensive trails.
  • Bay of Islands: Encompassing over 140 islands, this enclave is known for its stunning beaches, a rich sailing culture, etc. 
  • Lake Taupo: A large crater in the North Island, Lake Taupo is located in its namesake city. It offers a great variety of adventure activities. 
  • Kaikoura: Kaikoura, also known as a Marine Serengeti, is world-renowned for its unique aquatic wildlife, particularly the Sperm Whale. 
  • Aoraki: A prime Alpine destination, Aoraki, also known as Mount Cook, is known for massive glaciers, turquoise lakes, etc. 
  • Hanmer Springs: The Hanmer Springs hosts award-winning natural thermal pools and spa complexes, offering you a truly relaxing experience after rigorous studies.
  • International Trips: Due to New Zealand’s location, many Pacific nations are easily accessible for a long weekend trip. But be sure to check the country’s Visa requirements beforehand.
Due to the compact nature of the country, many of these destinations can easily be visited in a matter of days. They are also relatively affordable and won’t affect your overall cost to study in New Zealand. 

Remember, the key is to use affordable transport and accommodation options. Use your Student ID to get subsidies and discounts. Furthermore, plan your weekend getaways according to the current weather to have a proper travel plan. Venturing out with your friends while studying in New Zealand will help you make countless memories. So, hang tight and plan your next weekend trip today!

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