Composed of two main islands, New Zealand is about 2/3 the size of California. It is located some 1,200 miles southeast of its closest major neighbor, Australia, and is 6,600 miles west of South America. South Island and North Island are the main components of New Zealand.
The South Island consists of rain forest, fiords, central mountain ranges (including the "Southern Alps"), plains, much farmland as well as mining areas. This island is especially known for its scenic beauty as well as its great opportunities for outdoor and eco-tourist activities, such as backpacking, skiing, snow boarding, bungee jumping, and river rafting. South Island is the most mountainous and is where New Zealanders practice their skiing skills on the slopes of Mount Cook (12,349 feet), the highest mountain in New Zealand.
The North Island consists of beautiful beaches, areas of preserved forests, mountains/volcanoes, several bays and peninsulas, farmland, and areas of frequent geothermal activity. There are good ski fields in the North Island too, about three hours by car from Massey.
The vast majority of New Zealand's population is on the North Island. However, the South Island is host to New Zealand's second and fourth largest cities. New Zealand's economic base is agriculture, dairy, beef cattle, with wool and lamb production dominating, and timber. Because of New Zealand's location in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are reversed.
Massey University is situated on the North Island, located in Palmerston North, a city of about 73,000 population which is located about two hours north of Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Travel time between campus and the center of town (known as "the square") is approximately 45 minutes by foot, 10 minutes by bike, 10 minutes by bus, and 5 minutes by car. There is a bus service during the day. Buses run on the weekend, but stop running rather early. Ask locals about the variable bus schedule for evenings and nights on the weekend. Riding a bike can be harsh in the cold wind and rain. For going downtown, a bike is a benefit. Taxis are expensive, unless you go with a group. Taxis fares are negotiable; I’ve scored many rides from town for $10 NZD when it normally costs $20 NZD. The surrounding landscape is primarily rolling hills with some nearby mountains. Sheep farming is the main industry of the area. With a sheep population of about 30 sheep per human being (nearly double that in the spring), the land is teeming with them.
The weather for the most part is unpredictable. As soon as autumn arrives the weather could be any mix of sun, clouds, rain, cool to cold temperatures, and always windy. This continues throughout winter, except when temperatures drop to the mid to low 50s (in degrees F) during the day, and is much colder at night (0°C). It rains from March through September/October. The West coast of the South island is the 2nd rainiest place in the world.
The Society (Top)
Due to New Zealand's small size and population, you will find that New Zealanders are relatively more aware of international news and issues. New Zealand's "clean and green" image of being more environmentally aware and conscious is a famous perception for overseas travelers. In reality, however, this image does not hold up too well. From far, this image seems true, but up close, you may discover that Kiwis, like Americans, live a disposable, throwaway lifestyle, with not much institutional or individual recycling. Like the U.S., there is much ethnic and cultural conflicts. The two main groups of people, the "Pakeha" (European descendants) and Maori (indigenous people consisting of various tribes throughout New Zealand), seem to have fairly harmonious relations on the surface, but take a closer look and you will find many issues and tensions brewing, which stem from the earlier days of New Zealand's European settlement and colonization. (If possible, try to learn about the significant Treaty of Waitangi.)
There are mixed feelings towards international students. Immigration seems to be the topic of the day, as many Kiwis are feeling the crunch of limited employment opportunities. You may find Kiwis that are friendly and interested in talking with Americans. You will almost certainly find most New Zealanders to be reserved (at least at first), especially in the classroom setting. You may want to take the initiative in meeting or talking with them.
You may be in for a shock when you find the large amount of American culture here (especially pop culture). Most TV programs and films are American, as well as much of the music played. Because of this, most Kiwis (as well as the numerous international students) have a particular idea of what the U.S. and California is like. Namely, that all of California is warm, sunny, full of beaches and Baywatch type people. The U.S. has a reputation for being slightly obnoxious at times, since many people here watch American talk shows that play on a daily basis. Many also think that the U.S. is dangerous and violent, based on the kind of headlines that become international (i.e. the LA riots, drive-by shootings, etc.). Don't be surprised if you meet with those who think negatively of America and Americans. Remember that the USA is a prominent world player in terms of international economics and politics; many people are quite resentful of the U.S. president and government, and their views are often based on their representation on the six o'clock news.
You should do as much reading about the history, society, economics, and politics of New Zealand as possible before you come. It's worthwhile to know something about Maoris in New Zealand. Getting some background will help you to adjust more quickly and give you something in common with the New Zealanders-a knowledge of their country.
Maori (Top)
The indigenous people of New Zealand lived here before the arrival of European settlers. Currently there is a Maori renaissance, in terms of cultural awareness/identity and the Maori language, as well as the arts and crafts. The several dozens of tribes have their own history and can be most visibly represented by the various and distinctive looking Marae (meeting house), which dot the New Zealand landscape. It is important not to overlook this aspect of New Zealand. Rather, it is very interesting learning about Maori culture and issues. The majority of Maori population lives on the North Island, especially in the northern regions and the East Cape, above Gisborne.
Religion
Nearly 90% of the New Zealand population belong to various Christian denominations. Nevertheless, probably no more than 30% of the people attend worship services regularly. Although the political system is secular, Christian attitudes are part of many aspects of New Zealand life. Overseas students belonging to other religions will normally meet with tolerance. The most prominent landmark in the center of town is a tall clock tower, with a big sized cross at the top. However, you will find that this is not a particularly religious community.
Sports (Top)
A large proportion of New Zealanders spend Saturday afternoon playing or watching some type of sport. Rugby is New Zealand's national game and has a tremendous following, especially at Massey University. The New Zealand team, the 'All Blacks', are one of the best rugby teams in the world. Massey has just built new rugby facilities--'Adidas Institute of Rugby'. The All blacks have trained there several times this year. Other popular winter sports are soccer, field hockey, basketball, cross-country running, cricket, netball, and golf. Popular indoor games are badminton, squash, indoor cricket, table-tennis, judo, and fencing. Cycling and tennis are popular. In the winter many students go skiing and snow boarding. Hiking (tramping) is also popular. For fly fishing, one student considers Taupo area (Turangi) the trout fishing capital of the world.
Holidays (Top)
Public holidays observed by the whole country, when banks and business firms would be closed, are:
| New Year's Day |  | January 1 |
| Waitiangi Day | February 6 (very important) | |
| Anzac Day | April 25 | |
| Good Friday, Easter Monday | March-April (variable) | |
| Queen's Birthday Observance | First Monday in June | |
| Labour Day | Last Monday in October | |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | |
| Every Sunday |
Each province (the areas into which New Zealand is divided) observes its own Provincial Day holiday.
The Language (Top)
Their language is of British origin using many British and Maori terms and phrases, however, their accent is all their own and should not be referred to as British. The New Zealand accent is also distinct to the Australian accent. The accents are wonderful but be careful not to spend the lecture time listening to the professor's accent instead of the information! Maoris are native to New Zealand. Therefore there are many Maori names being used, which are difficult to pronounce and especially to remember. You will not understand people for the first two weeks, but do not worry-soon everyone sounds normal and you do not notice much difference at all. Much of the government documents and institutions have a corresponding Maori title. Don't confuse a Kiwi with an Aussie, some get quite offended!
The following list of words and phrases is incomplete, but it may help you understand a few of the colloquialisms encountered. Many of these terms are used mainly by young people. The list does not include terms used in schools or universities to describe different subjects or places. Do not feel embarrassed about asking anyone the meaning of expressions you do not understand.
| All Blacks | the New Zealand Representative Rugby Football team | |
| bathroom | the room with the bathtub, literally (most toilets are separate from them) | |
| bach | Holiday home (North Island | |
| b.y.o. | expression on an invitation to a casual party which means "bring your own" | |
| bench | counter, e.g., kitchen counter | |
| biscuits | cookies | |
| boot | trunk of the car | |
| bum | your behind | |
| capping | graduation (actual ceremony and social activities associated with it i.e. "capping review") | |
| casserole | stew | |
| cheers | multi-use word for good-bye, thanks, bottoms up | |
| chemist | drugstore | |
| chips | french fries | |
| choice | very good! | |
| college | high school | |
| crib | holiday home (South Island) | |
| crook | sick, hurt, or ill | |
| dairy | small shop that opens for long hours and sells a wide range of general food products | |
| docket | receipt | |
| flash | nice or neat | |
| flag that | forget about it | |
| flat | rented accommodation | |
| flat-mate | roommate | |
| footpath | sidewalk | |
| footy | rugby | |
| full stop | punctuation at the end of a sentence | |
| give way | yield | |
| Fodzone | New Zealand, short for "God's own country | |
| good as | as in "good as gold", meaning definitely | |
| grid-iron | American football | |
| gumboots | wellies, rubber rain or mud boots | |
| haere mai | Maori term for welcome | |
| haka | Maori dance performed in threatening fashion before an All Blacks game | |
| hangi | Maori feast cooked in an earth oven | |
| hard case | (of a person) amusing; full of fun; stubborn | |
| heaps | a lot | |
| holiday | vacation | |
| hongi | Maori greeting, performed by pressing noses together | |
| hostel | a typical dormitory, backpackers "lodgings" | |
| jandals | flip flops (cannot wear to the pubs!) | |
| jelly | jello | |
| jersey, jumper | sweater | |
| judder bars | speed bumps | |
| jug | pitcher, holds one liter | |
| kia ora | Maori greeting of hello | |
| kiwi | a flightless native bird; term used for a New Zealander and fruit | |
| knackered | exhausted | |
| lectures | classes | |
| lollies | hard candy wrapped like pieces of toffee | |
| loo, toilet | bathroom, restroom | |
| marks | grades | |
| mate | a fellow-used in greeting as in "hi, mate," as in "roommate" | |
| meat works | slaughterhouse | |
| mince | ground beef | |
| nicked | stole something - overseas experience, usually a year spent abroad by Kiwis | |
| pa | a Maori village | |
| pakeha | -a Maori term for any European | |
| paper | subject course, study, and set of examination question | |
| parcel | package | |
| petrol | gasoline | |
| pinched | steal something | |
| piss | alcohol | |
| pissed | drunk | |
| plaster | band aid | |
| polytech | comparable to community colleges in the US. | |
| primo | very good! choice! | |
| pub | bar | |
| queue | line | |
| RTD | Ready-to-Drink (premixed bottled spirits - vodka + lemonade, whisky + coke) | |
| rubber | eraser | |
| scarfie | university student | |
| school | primary/secondary school | |
| spirit | hard liquor | |
| stink | that sucks, bad | |
| straight away | right away | |
| sweet as | it's all good | |
| ta | thanks | |
| tea | dinner | |
| tick | as in check the box on a questionnaire for example | |
| togs | swimsuit | |
| tramping | hiking | |
| ute | small truck-pickup | |
| varsity, uni | term used to differentiate the fact that you are attending the university and not still in school which is lower education e.g., high school | |
| washing | laundry | |
| washing up | to do dishes | |
| wicked | very good | |
| wop-wops | remote areas, in the "middle of nowhere" |
One student suggested purchasing A Personal Kiwi-Yankee Slanguage Dictionary by Louis S. Leland, Jr. (John McIndoe, Ltd., publisher), sold in New Zealand for NZ$5.95.
Having your own copy of the dictionary really is not necessary. It might be fun to look at, but you will never use it when you are involved in a casual conversation. Just ask them what they mean or tell them you do not understand-they have fun elbowing you about not understanding some of their funny words. It usually lightens the conversation.
MASSEY UNIVERSITY (Top)
Massey University is a beautifully landscaped campus, two miles from the city center of Palmerston North. Massey has the largest land holdings of any university in the Commonwealth. The campus and Palmerston North are very similar to that of Cal Poly SLO and San Luis Obispo. The full-time enrollment is about 9,000. There are many foreign students. Sixty-three countries are represented at Massey-more than at any other New Zealand university, so you won't be alone. There is a library on campus. The Student Union includes the dining hall, coffee bar, small student shop, and various other offices. Also on campus are two bank branches, a post office, bookstore, hair salon, travel agency, cafe and bar/restaurant. All are located at the university's "Commercial Complex".
The First 10 days (Top)
The first 10 days in Palmerston North was quite strange. But, with the help of Amol Virkar, who works directly with international students in the Registre building, adapting to the slow-paced kiwi life was made a little easier.
The bus transportation from Massey to the town centre is the best way to go. Walking to town takes about 45 minutes. The pathway passes by the best park in the world, it is absolutely gorgeous. The city bus is free for students and is useful for getting to and from Massey and the main bus stop near the square.
The first couple of days, you go into town to get the essentials (alarm clock, food, laundry powder, etc). During these first days, you just find yourself wandering around the campus with your new friends. Nearing the last few days of orientation week, the material becomes information for new students who have not learned good study habits; it’s quite boring. I recommend going for a road trip (hitch-hiking is very safe and even safer with another person). You’ll meet the finest Kiwis NZ has to offer, get free food and free places to stay, and really good information on what to do in the area.
Housing (Top)
University Flats - Request Atawhai (pronounced Ata-fi) Village (farthest from campus)-newest on campus. Moginie Village is not quite as nice but it is a lot closer to campus. CSU students will be housed in the university hostels.
University Hostel - The courts is just one of several campus hostels. It consists of six towers with six carpeted single small rooms per floor sharing a common bathroom. They are equipped with a desk, cupboard, closet, bed, and heating, all securely fastened to the floor so that you do not throw them out of the window in one of your finer moments. The eighty students of the court have access to the common room with color TV (8 channels, including movie and sports channel). Laundry facilities are also provided. Washing machines do require coins to operate them but drying facilities are generally limited to a common drying room, an outdoor clothesline, and dryer. Watch your clothes-quite a few have been stolen. Easier to dry them in your room. Some have kitchen facilities--microwave, sink and common refrigerator. The majority of students in the hostels are first year students. Be prepared for late and loud nights!
Hostel Food - Hostel food is another thing to get used to (tasteless and overcooked). Massey hostel food is no exception and the portions are small. However, by the end of the first term most students adjust to the local diet, if you're lucky! Hostel living includes two meals per day (breakfast and dinner). Plan to stock your hostel room shelves with food stuffs to satisfy the munches. Be ready for baked beans, spaghetti and powdered eggs for breakfast (same every morning) and some form of hogget for dinner with cabbage, carrots, peas, silverbeet (like spinach), pumpkin, salad and potatoes. Silverbeet, pumpkin and custard are Massey specialties. Friday they have fish as a selection and Thursday they usually have some sort of spicy curry dish. There are vegetarian dishes.
Private Hostels - Some CSU students will be placed in hostels operated privately, or by social and religious organizations. Conditions in these housing arrangements vary, but all offer individual study rooms, shared baths, dining common, and some recreational facilities usually located off campus, all are within a short bus ride of the university. If you don't enjoy hostel life, it is possible to find a flat which may prove cheaper than hostels, at the beginning of the second term.
Flatting - Hostels are a great way to meet people, however, flatting may be considered after the first term or so. However, if you arrive and notify the university a few weeks in advance, you can set up to stay in the hostels before term and give yourself time to find a flat in town. Flatting is the best way to meet kiwis, learn about the town, and learn about kiwi student lifestyle. The cost of flatting can vary greatly depending on the standard of living desired, but as a rule cheaper than other options. Rent ($50-80NZ) is paid weekly and most flats have a kitty into which everyone contributes for all expenses, including food. Most people eat dinner together with cooking and clean-up chores being alternated. Items such as a television or washing machine are usually rented for the year. A major consideration to be taken into account is the 10-15 minute bike ride to Massey each morning no matter what the weather; this is not so bad when one considers the much improved quality of food over hostel dining. Or you can catch a bus $1.00NZ each way ($1.50NZ regular, but if you use student bus passes, then it's $1.00NZ).
Library (Top)
The University Library, centrally situated on the campus, contains a collection of approximately 460,000 volumes selected to meet the needs of student, tutor, and research worker. Over 5,000 periodicals and other serial publications are currently received including indexes and abstracts through which the student and research worker can gain access to published materials in a wide range of fields. If you are writing an essay for a big class-get there early or all books needed are usually checked out! Special attention is given to official and statistical publications which form a separate collection. There are also growing collections of items published in microfilm and of audiovisual materials, with equipment for their use. There is a reserve book desk.
The Library's stock is supplemented by photocopying facilities (10 cents a page) and an inter loan service through which books and periodicals can be obtained from other libraries in New Zealand or from overseas for a charge.
Past exam papers (very useful) are bound in volumes in the library for the general use by students to copy (for every paper!).
The Library has study areas for about 1,000 students and is open every day during the academic year and from Monday to Friday during the summer vacation. Rush hour in the library is 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. During this time it's really difficult to get on a computer or study in quiet. Also extremely long queues for the photocopy machine and book checkouts. Be sure you have your own stationery/pens when working in the library.
One can check out and watch videos in the multi-media area, there are many good ones. Also, a lot of courses have many extra textbooks available to checkout from the library. Before you spend extra money on expensive textbooks, check it out. Usually every textbook in the library is on reserve too.
Computer Labs (Top)
There are four main undergraduate computer labs; three PCs and one Mac. It is free to use the computers, however it does cost money to print. E-mail is available, with a Massey address, and the e-mail software is better than average. E-mail is an excellent way to keep in touch with friends and family at home and is also fairly simple to set up. The world wide web is not accessible to most undergraduates, unless one is taking a course dealing with computer systems and technology. Undergraduates can only get NZ world web access. The travel center also has computer access, each 1/2 hour costs $2 NZD. The Palmerston Public library in town costs $2.50 for a 1/2 hour. Postgraduates have the opportunity to use the 24 hour computer lab which has access to World Wide Web.
Health Service (Top)
The Student Health Service provides students with all general medical care, full medical examinations and educational and preventative programs. There is no fee joining service, the first visit is free, but each visit after that is $15.00NZ (only M-F 9:00-5:00). There are mixed reviews of the campus health service. For women, an excellent resource is the Palmerston North Women's Collective located in town.
Counseling (Top)
A full-time student counseling center provides a confidential service to any student wishing to discuss personal or academic problems. There is an Academic Information Center in the Registry building.
Telephones (Top)
If you decide to get a phone hook-up to have access to the Internet and call home without any hassle, the best way to go is to get the phone service and unlimited Internet access. Monthly fee is $50NZ. Not bad at all unless the exchange rate is high. Instead of paying for the international calls, consider purchasing a calling card (e-phone maxi save toll card). For $50NZ you get something like 359 minutes.
Churches
Two university chaplains are also available to assist students of any denomination. Regular services are held on campus. In addition, churches of almost all denominations are in town, many located on, appropriately enough, Church Street. The Churches work with each other and make a great effort to reach out to the university students.
Mail (Top)
Student mail now goes to your hostel between 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. instead of to the student center because of so much theft, especially of overseas mail since thieves think there will be money inside. Parcels are kept at the post office. You will get a notice for you to pick up the parcel. Therefore, if anything important is being mailed have it registered or insured so that you have to pick it up at the post office yourself. Standard first class mail letters take approximately 5-8 days in either direction.
Student Center (MUSA) (Top)
There is a student center which consists of the cafeteria, video arcade, bar, a small shop, and a coffee bar. There is also a huge TV lounge, video arcade, and a women's space. The two aforementioned eating facilities and the shop are limited in their operating hours and selection. Therefore an occasional trip into town to get "supplies" is a must. There is a bookstore on campus or you can go to a "bookstall" (used book sales) operated by a student organization (only during the first two weeks of the first term). Selection is limited.
Social Life at Massey (Top)
There are many clubs and organizations at Massey to suit anyone's interest. Highly recommended is the Alpine Club for adventurous backpacking and hiking, and the Canoe Club for thrills on the water (and unintentional chills in the water), and the Maori Club, to learn more about a non-European culture. Also highly recommended is Ecowise, a new environmental group on campus, who are grappling with the various environmental issues on campus, such as recycling, carpooling, a public bike scheme, and enviro-mugs.
Social activities are frequently associated with the pub. There are a variety of pubs in town, enough to suit particular tastes and different crowds. The most typical student pub is the Fitz, which caters to a younger, sporty crowd. It is the Massey student pub and has as much intimacy as the Los Angeles International Airport. Others are the Fat Ladies Arms, the Old Railway, Dr. Jekyll's, the Celtic Inn, and Aquaba. There is one main dancing spot, Bassline, and is quite popular with the international students. Drinking is done by both sexes and in vast quantities that will shock most Americans. Never get coaxed into a friendly drinking match with a Kiwi!
There is only one cinema complex, which plays approximately 10 films at any given time. There is a student discount at $8NZ compared to $9.00NZ. If you are lucky, you can find discounts for the movies on the back of grocery receipt. This discount is only good on Wednesday and Thursday for $5.00NZ a ticket.
There are a number of restaurants in Palmerston North, however eating out is quite expensive. Expect to pay at least $10NZ for a meal, and extra for drinks (unless you eat at McDonald's which is actually a quite popular place to eat). On Fridays and Saturdays, McDonald's stays open 24 hours, to accommodate the pub crowds.
The New Zealand diet is not very accommodating to vegetarians. New Zealand's specialty is meat and dairy products. Take-out items (such as pies, sandwiches, chips, and cake slices) are more common than actual sit down type meals. These are referred to as "take-away" items, as opposed to the American term, "to go."
The Sports Center on campus is fairly small, yet you can find almost any sport somewhere in the area. The center has several squash courts, a basketball court, Ping-Pong tables, a sauna, a weightlifting facility, rock climbing wall, and an arts and crafts room. There are two outside tennis courts and many rugby fields. The sports center also has ski hire, aerobics classes, yoga, ceramics, photography, etc. If you want to go swimming, you will have to go into town, which has several outdoor pools (which cost- $3.00NZ) plus a new indoor pool. There is no swimming pool on campus. There are many good trails for running, including the Bridle Path along the river and through the Botanical gardens. Also available in town are a small bowling alley, rental bikes, mini golf, one movie theater, plays, and indoor cricket facilities. Near the university are a few nice mountain bike rides-on Turitea Road and Kahuterawa Road.
This country offers prime hiking, fishing and hunting activities. There are numerous tracks, the Milford and Routeburn being the most famous. There is also a good Youth Hostel system in New Zealand. With a membership card you may stay in one for about $10.00U.S. a night. There are other privately owned Youth Hostels for the same price and you don't need to be a member ($10-$30NZ per night).
ACADEMIC LIFE (Top)
The Academic System The Massey system is designed slightly differently than those in California. Where the CSU system has a flexible and general course levels (i.e. upper division, lower division), Massey has a very distinct course level system. The actual course number reflects what year the student should take it (i.e. 54.123 signifies the faculty (54), and the year level (1), and the actual course (23). The professors have a certain expectation of the students' knowledge in any given level. Most students are expected to finish their programs in three years. Because of this system, most professors may expect you to have a certain level of knowledge if you say you have been in school for two years, for example. However, in California, the amount of schooling you've completed may not reflect your level of knowledge of your particular major. So it can be a bit confusing at the beginning of the year, when deciding upon your courses for the year. It is strongly advised to meet with a Massey professor from your faculty department to consult about the courses you're interested in taking. Be sure to let he or she know where you are at with that particular subject or else they may make false assumptions on what they think you already know and may suggest inappropriate courses for you.
Massey's academic program is based upon the British model of university studies. This means that there is little emphasis on regurgitation of facts, but more emphasis on the combining of factual knowledge with a solid grasp of basic principles. Students are expected to follow lectures carefully, supplement lecture courses with both directed and independent reading and observation, and then to integrate the information obtained into a useful body of knowledge. The method of evaluation reflects these expectations. Rather than to break the learning process up into several discrete blocks and then use quizzes, papers, or tests to evaluate each block, the tendency is to combine and integrate the material presented and wait until the end of each year, to give one grand examination (about 40-60% of your final grade), testing the whole of your intellectual progress in each particular subject studied. The typical format for these examinations is a three-hour essay.
You spend less time in lectures here. There are more essay assignments, case studies and reports to write throughout the terms, especially second term. There are less quizzes, but they are being used now for internal assessment along with the projects. The final examinations are three hours long and include a handful of essays and sometimes short answer and multiple choice questions. The final can amount to anywhere from 30 to 80 percent of your total marks. It is quite helpful that the previous years' exams are available in the library.
Adapting to the New Zealand instructional philosophy is at once the most challenging and the most rewarding aspect of the year. The key to success is an active involvement in your studies, being self-motivated in achieving the fullest possible understanding of the subjects studied. While the value of these qualities is not unknown in California universities, they receive considerably more attention in New Zealand. Most students seem to be here just to pass (50%). It is beneficial to talk to your professors-take advantage of office hours.
Grades (Top)
Grade inflation has not yet reached New Zealand. It is still generally true that average work there receives average recognition, and a grade of C is not a dishonor. The Office of International Programs is responsible for final determination of grades awarded to participating students. The scale provided below, therefore, may not accurately reflect the grade of any particular student based upon the percentage ranges indicated. The scale is provided, however, to illustrate the rather different grading practices in operation in universities in New Zealand:
| Passing Marks: | A = 90-100 | Excellent |
| B = 65-90 | Very Good | |
| C = 50-65 | Satisfactory-Good | |
| Failing Marks: | D = 37-49 | Unsatisfactory |
| E = Below 37 | Poor |
Money and Banking (Top)
The two best, most extensive banks to get an account at are Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) and the ASB. Former IP students have found banking to be a fairly straightforward matter, because banking practices are very much like those in the US. The banks in New Zealand are good about cashing checks and providing useful services. Personal checks take 15 days to clear.
Another option is to keep your bank account at home and withdraw money whenever you needed it. Just plan your withdrawals well because you may be charged as much as a $9 international fee in the states for withdrawing money. The best way to go is to use your credit card as much as possible especially if you have a MasterCard that applies to American Airlines air miles.
ATM's can be used at any bank branch and almost every store, pub, and restaurant.
Bank of America does automatic transfers-they take about five days. The best and fastest way to send money from the States is to telex it directly to your NZ accounts. There is a fee for the service.
Students generally agreed that with the favorable exchange rate during their stay, the cost of living was considerably lower than in the States. The rate fluctuates. But things are much more expensive here. Here is an estimate on how much you may be spending.
| Levis | $ 80.00NZ |
| CD | 35.00 (for new release) |
| Nike Air Running shoes | 200.00 |
| Reebok court tennis shoes | 140.00 |
| Basketball high tops | 240.00 |
| Electric converter | 60.00 |
| Film development (24 exposure) | 10.00-13.00 |
| Candy bars | 1.00 |
| Cigarettes (one pack) | 5.00 |
| Postcard postage | 1.00 |
| Letter postage | 1.50 |
| Beer (12-pack) | 15.00 |
| Sweatshirts | 60.00 |
Things were much more expensive than anticipated. That includes personal products such as soap, shampoo, lotion, cosmetics. Clothes and shoes were very expensive. Textbooks are very expensive (e.g., Soils paid $30 at Cal Poly same book is $120NZ here). Regular non-textbooks are also very expensive. Many are imported from Australia and USA. The Organics market is slowly emerging and costs are considerable. There are not many ‘Whole Foods’ grocers.
There was also general agreement that travelers checks are the best form in which to bring dollars, for safety, flexibility, and a more favorable exchange rate. However, check with your current bank as they may be affiliated with a New Zealand Bank and be able to provide you with helpful transfer services. Last year's group recommended $6,000US for the year. Expect to spend at least $1,200US your first month here-paying hostel bills and getting established. Plan for about $10,000 for the year without school expenses!
What to Bring (Top)
Former students recommend bringing:
On bicycles: Purchasing a second hand bicycle is relatively easy. Many advertise their bikes at the beginning of the year and are generally decently priced. New bikes are usually very expensive. If you don't want to use the bus system, you will almost surely need a bike. It will be much cheaper in the long run, even if you live on campus. Many students ride bicycles and Palmerston has very decent bike lanes. It can be a hassle in the rain, but that's what rain jackets are for!
On electronic devices: It is strongly recommended that you bring your own electric converter (which converts New Zealand electricity into the right voltage to run any electric devices you bring from abroad). You also should bring an electric plug prong adapter (just known as an adapter) so that you can plug the converter into. If you have many electrical appliances you wish to bring, you may want to bring a "power strip" with multiple outlets that plugs into one wall outlet. Let it be known that you must use a converter for your American appliances, or else they will be ruined.
As far as clothes are concerned, New Zealanders' do not dress too differently than back home. In general, people, especially Massey students, dress in very relaxed clothes, such as sweats, when at school.. It is suggested that you bring a variety of clothing to suit different occasions (sport, study, going out at night). Many people here like to "dress up" when going out at night.
Finally, there is no way to be completely organized, and you will no doubt wish at some stage that you had brought or not brought something-but that is part of the fun! But, make sure you bring American things you can't live without, as they may not be available in New Zealand-like a special toothpaste or shampoo. In fact, bringing an open mind and a lot of curiosity with you may be the most important thing of all. We hope you learn a lot and make the most of your experience in New Zealand.
Purchasing Your Airline Ticket (Top)
I participated in the Study Aboard program to New Zealand in the 2001-2002 academic year. I was 19, and it was my first time traveling outside the United States. There are a lot of things I wish I would have known about travel agencies and airline tickets before I purchased mine. I ended up paying twice as much as other CSU students I talked to and because I wanted to change my dates on my plane tickets I ended up having to buy new tickets. Here is some friendly advice when purchasing tickets to anywhere, especially the South Pacific. If you are planning to travel to Australia or New Zealand fly Air Pacific. Air Pacific's hub is in Fiji, so you receive a free stopover at no charge. However, when purchasing the tickets you need to tell the travel agent that you wish to stop over either on your way there or on your way back or both. If you do not specify that you want stopovers you may be unable to if you later change your mind. Ask the travel agent if you will be able to change dates on your plane tickets in case your travel plans change. Also, I suggest just booking the international flight into your country and then buying any domestic flights within that country separately. Why? Because when you book your tickets all together that means you have to use them in succession usually within 24 hours of your previous flight. For example, I had a return flight from San Francisco to LA to Auckland NZ to Palmerston North NZ. I flew straight through on my way there but on my way back I wanted to fly to Auckland from Palmerston and travel around for 2 weeks then fly on to LA. I was told that to use my domestic flight I had to fly within 24 hours of reaching Auckland to LA. So I had to buy a new domestic flight to Auckland. Also, on my way back home the same applied to my US domestic flight from LA to San Francisco and I was also unable to use that ticket because I flew from LA to Hawaii. And therefore my flight to San Francisco was forfeited. So my advice is to buy all airline tickets separately or make sure and inquire with your travel agent the options your tickets allow in case you decide to change your travel plans. Shop around for your plane tickets on the Internet and with travel agents. The ISIC card will get you cheap rates at STA Travel. This agency caters to student travelers and usually has the lowest prices (www.statravel.com).
Vacation Travel (Top)
The Academic year in New Zealand is 11 months. This is a long time and when leaving the US all you have on your mind is getting there and getting settled, let alone other travel plans. Because you will be in New Zealand through the winter there will be lots of rainy weather that will interfere with your travel plans. There is a 2-week break from Massey at the beginning of April and it is a good time to travel around the South Island because it is still warm. Going to the South Island in the winter is good if you plan to do some skiing or snow boarding. I recommend going to Australia during the semester break because it will be so rainy and cold in New Zealand that the Australian sun will be well appreciated. Freedom Air is the cheapest way to fly between New Zealand and Australia and I recommend buying your tickets on the Internet. Other airlines include Air New Zealand, Qantas and Thai Air. Also, when you fly internationally from NZ and return into NZ you will need to bring your plane tickets going back to the United States because you will need to prove to the NZ customs that you are leaving New Zealand and are not going to stay there and work illegally. I was not informed of this when I traveled to Australia and was at the Brisbane airport when I found that I was not going to be allowed to fly back to NZ because I didn't have my plane ticket back to United States. The airline people wanted me to purchase another ticket back to the US before they would let me fly to NZ. Luckily, I had a friend back in NZ that was able to fax a copy of my tickets to the Brisbane airport, which allowed me to fly back to NZ. This problem would have been avoided if the travel agent I bought my tickets from in NZ would've told me about this potential problem. So, it is important to ask questions to travel agents when traveling so you can minimize these unexpected surprises.
The exchange rate favors the US dollar, therefore traveling can be more affordable than you think. Islands in the South Pacific like Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and the cook Islands might be places to check out.
Travel Opportunities
When it comes to exploring New Zealand, there aren't many places that are more than a two to three hour drive from a coastline and the scenery is constantly changing. Students can get discounts on plane flights and bus travel, the two most useful forms of travel. A railway system is also available but not nearly as extensive as the bus system. Bicycling and hitchhiking are also alternatives but time and safety are other factors which have to be considered. Travel is very easy in New Zealand and very economical. Take advantage of it. Traveling solo is the best way to meet people and very safe when using public transportation. [OIP advises students to avoid hitchhiking-it can cost you your life!] Use YHA card and ISIC to get travel and accommodation discounts. The best way to see the country is by car!
Travel can be much more "educating" than any classroom situation...make the most of it.
A few specific observations by former IP Massey students are:
The People
The people of New Zealand are very friendly towards Americans and foreigners in general. You will find that they have preconceived ideas on what Americans are like, usually based on American television programs. Some of their ideas are not exactly flattering, but the New Zealanders in general seem to be willing to judge a person on an individual basis. Kiwis are very nationalistic.
Although some IP students found their Kiwi counterparts to be more reserved than Californians, most agreed that in general they are friendly, fun-loving and easy-going.
Several students noted that there are far more cultural similarities than differences, but did note the less varied diet in New Zealand (heavy on the meat, potatoes and cabbage). One student cautioned that most New Zealanders are more traditional in their attitudes toward the roles of men and women than are most Americans and are currently experiencing a feminist movement in some parts.
Other (Top)
If you opt for on campus hostel living, be forewarned about the phone situation. Each hostel may have just a few phones that people may or may not answer. Also, you may not be able to use the phone when you want. This can be frustrating if you're expecting a call from overseas. Also, most public telephones use a prepaid phone card that deducts the amount of the call until the remaining value is used. In general the telephone company (Telecom) charges a high amount for overseas phone calls.
If you plan to travel at all, it's advisable to pack as little as you can. This is because you almost certainly accumulate things as the year goes by. Of course, you can send things home by mail, however, the New Zealand post is generally more expensive than the US postal service.
