Kiwi Adventures: American Students in New Zealand

New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty, welcoming locals, relaxed lifestyle, and vibrant Māori culture also offers visiting American students not just a place to study, but a place to grow, explore, and thrive.

- David Campbell | USA | Project Manager, Tesla

From the moment American students land in New Zealand, they’re often struck by one thing right away: the friendliness of the locals!

New Zealanders, affectionately known as ‘Kiwis’, are renowned for our hospitality and easy-going nature. Whether it's through your flatmates, professors, local shop owners, or bus drivers, you’ll quickly find a sense of genuine warmth and openness that will help you feel at home!

Many American students studying abroad in New Zealand say they were surprised at how quickly they formed deep, meaningful connections with locals and other international students. The smaller size of New Zealand's cities and universities often means students receive more ‘personalized’ attention in classrooms and a stronger sense of community in student life.

New Zealand’s accepting culture also helps ease the transition for students who may be traveling far from home for the first time. Parents back home can feel secure, knowing that their children are surrounded by a supportive and welcoming community.

Ask any student what blew their mind about New Zealand, and chances are you’ll hear about the scenery first!

A natural wonderland with landscapes that range from golden beaches and lush rainforests to volcanic mountains and icy fjords, New Zealand is a place where outdoor adventure is part of the everyday experience!

For American students used to busy cities and packed schedules, the natural world becomes a classroom all its own.

Thinking about participating in some outdoor activities while in New Zealand? You’ll certainly have no shortage of options! Check out this blog which explains some of the most popular outdoor activities in New Zealand. No matter what you’re into, you’ll find something fun to do!

With its relatively small size, New Zealand is compact but diverse - meaning weekend getaways can feel like stepping into a new world. Students in cities like Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin or Christchurch can find themselves hiking alpine national parks, bungee jumping off bridges in Queenstown, exploring glowworm caves in Waitomo, or kayaking through the pristine waters of Abel Tasman National Park!

With the high standards of Health and Safety in New Zealand, these activities are closely monitored by experienced industry professionals who keep everyone involved safe and engaged with what’s going on.

Because life here moves at a gentler pace to many other countries, New Zealand’s more relaxed lifestyle is a huge draw for many American students. Kiwis value their downtime and are known for their love of the outdoors, good food, community, and well-being. This mindset extends into education too, where students work to find a healthier, more holistic approach to their time studying. Instead of all-night library cram sessions and high-stress environments, students in New Zealand often talk about a more balanced academic culture. Professors are approachable and collaborative, and education is valued not just as a means to an end, but as a journey of discovery.

Despite this, the academic standards are still rigorous! New Zealand’s universities are well-respected globally, but the balanced approach fosters independence, critical thinking, and a deeper connection and understanding of the material.

- Brook Thompson | USA | Portland State University

Students often describe life outside the classroom as just as important as their studies. For example, surfing before class, hiking on weekends, or hanging out with friends at a beach barbecue are all common for students in New Zealand. Our emphasis on a well-rounded, active lifestyle is something that many students bring home with them long after their semester or course ends.

One of the most unique and enriching aspects of studying abroad in New Zealand is the chance to experience Māori culture. Māori are the Indigenous people of New Zealand, and their traditions, language (known as ‘Te Reo Māori’), and worldview are deeply woven into our identity. From the moment you arrive, you’ll hear Māori place names, see cultural carvings and artwork, and experience traditional customs such as the pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) or haka (ceremonial dance). Many universities in New Zealand offer courses in Māori history, politics, art, and language, allowing American students to deepen their understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems and cultural perspectives.

Some students also participate in marae (tribal meeting ground) visits or cultural immersion weekends, which are often described as life-changing experiences.

Beyond the adventure and beauty, you’d expect to experience in New Zealand, studying here gives American students something more enduring: a new lens through which to see the world. Living abroad teaches resilience, adaptability, and empathy, as well as challenging students to move beyond assumptions, embrace new perspectives, and become more independent and self-aware. When you return home, you’ll have stronger global competency, often a renewed academic motivation, and stories that stay with you for life. Whether it’s tackling a mountain trail you thought you’d never finish, joining a kapa haka performance on campus, or simply learning how to cook dinner in a flat with friends from five different countries, each experience adds a layer of confidence, curiosity, and personal growth!

- Jake Voss | USA

For families considering sending their loved one to the other side of the world, there are understandably some big questions to answer first!

But because New Zealand is consistently ranked as one of the safest, most peaceful countries in the world, with an excellent healthcare system, reliable public transport, and friendly and kind locals, there is less to worry about than you might first think.

In fact, most tertiary education providers have dedicated international support teams that help students with everything from visas and housing to counselling and cultural adjustment!

And because English is the main language spoken in New Zealand, communication is easier, and American students can often integrate quickly into both academic and social environments.

Perhaps most reassuring of all? Students often come back happier, more confident, and more mature. You will leave New Zealand with not only academic credits and international experience on your résumé but with a clearer sense of who you are and what you’re capable of.

- Donna Ly | USA | Uni of Auckland

For American students, New Zealand isn’t just another destination - it’s an opportunity to live boldly and learn deeply! With its awe-inspiring landscapes, deeply rooted Indigenous culture, friendly communities, and a lifestyle that embraces both adventure and balance, when you choose to study with New Zealand you’ll leave with life experiences you’ll remember forever! Interested in learning more about the tertiary education providers that are in New Zealand? You’ll be surprised by the range of subjects covered, as well as the high standards that all universities in New Zealand operate at. Click here to start browsing between the different education providers, and learn more about New Zealand’s education system.

Don’t forget whether you’re a student dreaming of something unforgettable or a parent seeking reassurance that your child will be supported, and enriched, New Zealand delivers! It’s more than a place to study. It’s a place to discover the world, and yourself.