Make the most out of your destination!“Embrace the journey, learn the culture, make friends, & explore the possibilities”

Florina Bispo from Switzerland - (Te Pūkenga Student)

As a traveller who has been to around 30 countries, and a student who has travelled around New Zealand and has been in Auckland for over two years, I can say that there are a lot of things that I enjoyed about this city and this nation. I first came here in 2018 to study for a year, then after spending 3 years in Switzerland, my home country, I decided to return to Auckland in 2022 to be with my then-boyfriend (now husband), visit my friends, to work, to get married, and to pursue further education in New Zealand.

I fell in love with New Zealand and have lived many extraordinary experiences here, and want to share with you some tips on how to get the most out of your travel destination.

Get Connected to Community

New Zealand is a nation that values variety and inclusivity, and there are lots of places where you can meet like-minded people, whether you're searching for a coworking space, a social club, or a cultural centre. Check out the clubs and communities at your university, or local community centres, and participate in social events near you. You will find activities for people from all walks of life.

Discover the Culture and the Land

Auckland is just one example of New Zealand's breathtaking natural grandeur. There are numerous chances to venture outside and discover the parks and beaches of the city. Some of my favourite locations are Mount Eden, which provides breathtaking views of the city, and Piha Beach, a black sand beach that is only a 50min car drive from the city centre and serves as a perfect location to take memorable photos.

Connecting to, learning, and understanding Māori Culture has been a highlight for me as well. In 2022, I had the opportunity to visit a Marae. Hearing the stories, eating and sharing food with locals, singing waiata, experiencing a sense of belonging, and overall understanding of the cultural heritage of Aotearoa New Zealand was mindblowing and rewarding to me.

Volunteering is key

New Zealand values giving back to society and volunteering. There are numerous organisations that are constantly looking for volunteers, and getting involved is a fantastic way to both find friends easily and use your time for a good purpose. Whether you care about people in need, social justice or environmental preservation, there are charities all around New Zealand where your help will be much appreciated.

Taste the Local Cuisine

I live in Aukland, and this city is a culinary haven! You can find anything from fresh seafood to authentic Korean restaurants to tastes from around the world. Some of my favourite go-to’s are the fish and chips shops, where you usually find a great deal for the “catch of the day”, burgeries, I love a good burger, and the Night Markets, where you can taste a variety of street cuisine. On the weekend, I love to go for a day trip through the beautiful countryside to the Matakana Markets, where delicious meals, handmade treats and products fresh from the farm await you. Whatever destination you are heading to, look out for the local cuisine and places where you can enjoy a good meal. 

Join the Party

There are numerous festivals, concerts, and sporting activities that take place all year long in and around the city. The Pasifika Festival - a weekend filled with food, music and dance that celebrates Pacific Island culture - and the Lantern Festival, where you find hundreds of lanterns in all sizes and artistic shapes scattered across the Auckland Domain park. And every year in June, I recommend you to look out for special events happening to celebrate Matariki, the Māori New Year.

In general, New Zealand provides countless opportunities for exploration, adventure, and connection. There is something for everyone in this lively and welcoming nation, whether you're a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a social butterfly. There are plenty of opportunities for you to make the most out of your destination, you just need to embrace the journey and get involved once you get here. So, plan your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand and get ready for a memorable adventure!