Hello and kia ora, dear students and parents!

At this year’s exchange fair, where various schools presented opportunities for studying abroad in different countries, Craig Hawke, the Ambassador of New Zealand visited our school, the GBG, to learn more about exchange possibilities between Germany and New Zealand. Seizing this unique occasion, we, Oceane Schlegel and Milla Graf, had the chance to interview the Ambassador, covering everything you need to know if you’re considering visiting or studying in New Zealand. So, if you’re thinking about embarking on such a journey—or just want to impress everyone at the dinner table with your knowledge—keep reading!

Language & Culture in New Zealand

New Zealand is a country rich in languages and cultures. It has three official languages—English, Māori, and New Zealand Sign Language—and there’s been a big push in recent years to revive the Māori language and bring it back into everyday life. With people from all over the world calling New Zealand home, its schools and communities are incredibly diverse, making for a mix of traditions, languages, and global perspectives.

New Zealand & Germany: A Strong Connection

Did you know that Germany and New Zealand have been close partners for over 70 years, building strong ties through student exchanges, trade, and political cooperation?

For instance, the two countries team up on some pretty exciting research projects, from artificial intelligence to climate change and even Antarctic studies. It’s a partnership that’s all about learning from each other and tackling big global challenges together.

However, one of the most exciting opportunities for young people is probably the working holiday visa, which lets Germans and Kiwis live, work, and explore each other’s countries for a year. Whether it’s pulling pints in a Berlin bar or working on a New Zealand vineyard, it’s an amazing way to experience a new culture firsthand.

Studying in New Zealand?

But why wait until after graduation? At the fair, we also learned about the opportunity to study in New Zealand and asked the Ambassador about the benefits of spending some time at a New Zealand high school. His answer made it clear why so many students choose to go there. For one, the education system has a lot to offer, encouraging critical thinking rather than just memorization. Students also have access to a wide range of subjects, including outdoor education—so learning isn’t always confined to a classroom.

Beyond academics, New Zealand is known for its safe and welcoming environment, with manaakitanga (hospitality) playing a big role in daily life. Schools emphasize inclusivity, and international students often feel at home right away.

And of course, the country itself is a major highlight. Stunning landscapes, endless opportunities for adventure, and a strong connection to nature make it an unforgettable place to live and study. Whether it’s exploring national parks, hiking in the mountains, or relaxing on beautiful beaches, there’s always something to discover outside of school!

School Life: What’s Different?

What surprised us the most when talking to the Ambassador about school life was the contrast in school campuses—New Zealand schools typically have much larger grounds with open spaces and sports fields. One of the main things we noticed was that students have to integrate some elements of a new culture. In New Zealand, students learn about the Māori culture for around 4–5 hours per week and also learn the language, as well as traditions like wharenui (meeting houses) and wharekai (dining halls).

A significant contrast is also found in the final year of school. Instead of Germany’s Abitur, New Zealand students complete the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), a system that assesses students across multiple levels rather than relying on a single final exam.

What Is Essential to Know Beforehand?

Of course, moving across the world isn’t without its challenges. So we also discussed some potential difficulties students might face when studying in New Zealand. One of the biggest factors is the distance—not just from Germany, but from many other countries. With thousands of kilometres of ocean separating the two nations, the time difference can make staying in touch with family and friends a bit tricky, even with smartphones.

Another challenge the Ambassador mentioned is adapting to the New Zealand accent. While English is widely spoken, the Kiwi accent and local slang might take some time to get used to.

Lastly, public transport is more limited compared to Germany. While cities do have buses and trains, New Zealand is generally more car-dependent, which could be an adjustment for students used to Germany’s well-connected transport system.

Through chatting with the Ambassador, we got some great insights into life in New Zealand and how closely connected it is with Germany. Whether through study, work, or travel, the ties between these two countries keep getting stronger—and that’s something worth celebrating! If you’re thinking about going abroad, New Zealand is definitely a place to put on your list.

Thank you and kia pai tō rā!

Milla and Oceane