New Zealand is a unique and beautiful country with a rich and diverse history and culture. The Maori were the first to settle in New Zealand around 700 years ago. Though a Dutchman (Abel Tasman in 1642) was the first European to sight the country, it was the British who colonised New Zealand. A treaty was signed at Waitangi in the Bay of Islands on the 6th of February 1840 between the British Crown (the Queen of England at that time) and many of the important Maori chiefs of New Zealand. That treaty is now called the Treaty of Waitangi and is a foundation document of New Zealand.
Modern New Zealand is very ethnically diverse with over 200 ethnicities now living here. You will see evidence of this in any New Zealand town or city, through the architecture, people, restaurants and variety of festivals widely celebrated from traditional European (Christmas and Easter) and Maori (Matariki) festivals through to Chinese (Chinese New Year), Indian (Diwali) and many more.
Auckland is the largest New Zealand city and also the commercial capital. Known as “the city of sails” it is surrounded by water. Auckland lies between the Hauraki Gulf of the Pacific Ocean to the east, the low Hunua Ranges to the south-east, the Manukau Harbour to the south-west, and the Waitakere Ranges and smaller ranges to the west and north-west. The surrounding hills are covered in rainforest and the landscape is dotted with dozens of dormant volcanic cones.
The 2014 Mercer Quality of Living Survey ranked Auckland 3rd place in the world on its list, while the Economist Intelligence Unit’s World’s most liveable cities index of 2016 ranked Auckland in 8th place. In and around Auckland you will be able to experience a wide range of attractions and exciting activities outside of the classroom such as:
- Relaxing on golden beaches or swimming in crystal clear lakes;
- Skiing on snow covered mountains in both the North and South Islands;
- Hiking through native forests in our national parks;
- Visit world class vineyards and sample their award winning wines;
- Experience the unique Maori culture and learn about the traditional lifestyle;
- Bathe in New Zealand’s renowned thermal springs;
- Visit one of the many museums available;
New Zealanders are a warm and friendly people, much like the climate. The weather in Auckland is moderate with many sunny days for you to enjoy. However as it is a narrow strip of land please note the weather can change quite quickly.
New Zealand’s education system is world-class, modern and responsive. It combines proven, traditional principles with innovation, creativity and fresh thinking to produce leaders and citizens equipped for the 21st century. At the Institute of Commercial Education, New Zealand our tutors and staff are here to make your time in New Zealand valuable, meaningful and unforgettable. We are here to guide and nurture you and provide you with the opportunity to achieve your best.
For additional information please visit the New Zealand Now website and the Immigration New Zealand website