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| Home >> Australia >> New Zealand >> Tour New Zealand |
New Zealand: Education, Weather & Stay in New Zealand |
Introduction
Noted for its geographic remoteness, New Zealand is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. The country consists of two large islands namely, North Island and South Island, and many other smaller islands. Australia is located some 2000 kilometers to the northeast. New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga are its closest neighbors in the north. The indigenous Maori are the largest minority in New Zealand where most of the population is of European descent. New Zealand is a Constitutional Monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the Head of the State. A Governor-General represents the Queen, in her absence. However, the Queen has no political influence. The real political power is in the hands of the Prime Minister of the country.
The country has a long coastline of nearly 15,134 km. The country is rich in marine resources. It also boasts of the fifth largest Exclusive Economic Zone in the World. The varied landscape of the country has made it a hotspot for tourists as well as film crews from across the globe.
Climatic Conditions in New Zealand
New Zealand has a mild climate. The country generally experiences a cool temperate to warm temperate climate. Temperatures are generally in the range of 0 degrees to 30 degrees and rarely go beyond that. Winters are extremely cold in some parts. Summers however are not severe. Christchurch is driest as it receives very less rainfall compared to Auckland that receives approximately 50 in of rains every year.
Education Scenario in New Zealand
New Zealand is known the world over for the quality education that its colleges and universities provide. The safe learning environment in the country coupled with excellent study opportunities, and the different types of courses available make it a preferred destination for higher studies. There are a number of universities and colleges that offer a wide range of academic, professional and vocational courses in different streams. New Zealand has an extremely progressive system of education with equal emphasis on all the streams. The cost of education is also relatively less when compared to the places with same standard of education. The country has a 10-level education system. The lowest level stands for a Certificate while the highest signifies a Doctoral degree. As one goes up the levels continuously become more complex.
Staying options in New Zealand
Most higher educational institutions in the country have Halls of Residence. These types of residences are within walkable distance from the college/university campus. Rooms are available on a single or twin-sharing basis. Facilities such as laundry, lounge room, and dining hall are also available. Halls of residences provide a safe and secure environment and are generally available in the range of NZ$200 a week.
Homestay accommodations are also available. In these types of accommodations, students get to live with a family in a residential house. This is a great way to experience the kiwi culture. The family takes care of the meals and helps the students in everyday life in the country.
Flats/independent accommodations are also available. Available apartments include one-bed room apartments to 4-5 bedroom flats. Rented apartments are also available in and around the colleges. Flats can also be found in the city suburbs. A prefixed amount has to be paid to the landlord before one can move in. This amount known as bond is the advance rent of 2-4 weeks, and is refundable.
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