1. Currently doing Masters in NZ, University of Auckland. Bachelors from University of Otago.

2. Yes, but that depends of where you are. NZ is really very beautiful, some parts more than others (eg Queenstown), but generally you have to get out of the cities first. I've always thought that it's a pity there isn't a uni in Queenstown - would be the world's most beautiful uni if there is. South Island more beautiful than North Island.
Note that I use the term 'city' losely cos what the Kiwis call 'city' sould only qualify as a small town somewhere else.

3. Yes, quite safe. People are still quite honest and violent crime is rare.... though it's growing. But like anywhere else in the world, you need to be careful - lock your doors, don't leave valuable stuff lying around, don't walk in dark alleys by yourself etc.

4. Varies between places (Auckland the most expensive) and the type of lifestyle you want but you should budget around NZ$12,000 to be safe.

5. Part-time: shouldn't be much of a problem. The unis have a service called Student Job Search which helps students find part-time jobs. Minimum wage is around $10, minus 19% tax. Tax here is high and EVERY dollar is taxed, even interest from your savings account. International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during term time.

Full-time: Depends on whether you mean summer job or 'real' graduate job. Summer job should be quite easy, just use SJS to look. If you're good/lucky, you might get a summer internships. Those pay quite well. International students can work full-time during the summer break.

Graduate job: Not too hard provided you have a decent CV - work experience (any job, doesn't have to be relevant, Kiwis have a part-time work culture), extra-curriculars, and decent grades. Most of my friends managed to find jobs relatively easily.... just need some time and patience.

NZ graduates are granted a 6 month work visa on application. This can be extended to a full work permit once you find a full-time job related to your degree. Makes it easier to find job cos employers don't have to worry about work permit applications. Once you get a job, getting a PR is an easy next step.
NZ PR is better than Australian cos it's indefinate - once you've stayed there under PR for 2 years, you can leave anytime you want and never come back. Almost as good as citizenship. Not like Aus where you have to stay for 2 out of 5 years to keep it. They might change their immigration laws in the future though.

6. Other basic info: NZ is a country of 4 million people and has a landmass is the size of Great Britian. Wellington is the capital, Auckland is the largest city. The native people are the Maori. The Maori name for NZ is Aoteroa - the Land of the Long White Cloud. Asian population is about 7%, congregrated mostly in Auckland.

There are 8 unis - University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, Victoria University of Wellington, Massey University, University of Waikato, Lincoln University and Auckland University of Technology. The first 4 are considered the better, more established ones. A couple of the others have their own specialist fields. All are public universities. Some Malaysian private colleges twin with NZ unis - Inti with Otago, and I dunno who with Vic and Lincoln.
There are also polytechnics, many of which have degree-granting powers in specific fields. Not sure if there is any twinning.

This is a rugby-mad country. If you like other sports, you're going to suffer deprivation.

Any course/uni in particular that you're looking at?

Mostly I agree... but like you said, you're an ex-NZer. The govt recently introduced a new visa for new grads of NZ universities - a 6 month work visa. That's plenty of time to find a job and and once you have it, the visa gets extended to a full work permit. The process very simple so employers no longer have the no work permit excuse to employ you.

The Asian factor is a problem but then it's one even citizens (plenty of Asian citizens) and PRs have to overcome.

Living expenses - like I said, it does vary quite a lot. Rent per week in Auckland is around $170. Dunedin (where Uni of Otago is) is about $100. But note that your lease in Dunedin will be for the whole year, ie 52 weeks, while you'll only stay for around 38-40 weeks. Auckland leases are more flexible. If you don't mind a really crappy place then it's cheaper. If you want to stay further away, it's also cheaper. Lots of things to consider: crappy flat = bad insulation so colder, more money on heating; further away you'll need to pay for transport.

For some estimates, see:
http://www.auckland.ac.nz/uoa/for/prospect...gcosts_home.cfm
http://www.otago.ac.nz/about/accommodation/budget.html

As an international student, you'll also have to budget for things like medical insurance, health checks for visa applications, phone calls home and of course, travel expenses.

Fees - unless you're doing something like medicine it's around $20,000 per year. Standard line, some unis are more expensive. In NZ, they charge you fees per paper. So the more papers you take, the higher the costs. But then maybe you can finish earlier and then save on living expenses.... Science papers or anything with labs will cost more cos of facillities needed. For exact fees, you'll have to check with the unis.

Ya, money money money... studying/living overseas is expensive.

I'd recommend staying in a hall of residence for the first year. Great for exposure, social life and just experiencing the Kiwi student life. I've noticed people who rent places by themselves tend to keep to their own groups without going out to mix. If you want to do that, might as well stay in Malaysia.

IT - I'm not sure if the unis offer IT. IT is quite a new sort of course - to be honest, I'm not sure exactly what is taght in IT. The more established ones tend to offer stuff like computer science and information science. Otago is excellant for computer science. As for IT, maybe AUT or one of the polys might.

Because there're so few unis in NZ, uni ranking isn't really important. Kiwis in general don't care too much about 'the best'. It's really all in 2 tiers (unofficially) - the first 4 and the next 4. Gaps between uni standards aren't big and the govt doesn't randomly hand out uni/uni college status like Malaysia does. The only exception is AUT.

-----------------------
Grades - may I know what you're studying now? Pre-u or twinning?

Other results you'll need is either IELTS or TOEFL. Some unis want 6.0 for IELTS, some want higher. I don't know what TOEFL scores are required, better to check with the uni.

------------------------
I recommend you check out the universities' websites. Quite informative.
www.auckland.ac.nz
www.otago.ac.nz
www.canterbury.ac.nz
www.vuw.ac.nz

www.massey.ac.nz
www.waikato.ac.nz
www.lincoln.ac.nz
www.aut.ac.nz

I think that's enough info for now.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jun 11 2007, 09:26 AM

They accept 1119 now? Didn't know that. Wish they had back when I applied, would have saved myself quite a bit on IELTS.

I find the problem with jackets bought from Malaysia is - i) They're not warm enough or don't have wind-protection (vital for Welly); or ii) They're so think they're more suitable for Canada or something.

Wellington's quite a nice place. Some people find it a bit drab but it's ok in my books. It's the cultural heart of the country so if you like that sort of stuff you're going to the right place. I read somewhere that it has more bars and cafes per capita than New York. But since there aren't that many people, it doesn't add up to that many. Still, it has a good number.

May I ask what you're planning to study?

BurgaFlippinMan,
I find NZ institutions often have difficulty converting foreign qualifications. That probably explains the somehwat inconsistent entry requirements, ie SAT I. IMO, if they accept STPM and A'levels, they really should be asking for SAT II. But that's an aside. In any case, I have a friend in AUT who got in with SAT I (and no SPM) so it shouldn't be a problem with Auckland U. They also accept SAM and CPU.

Yes, their entry requirements aren't that high. When I applied, all they wanted was 3 Cs for Bursary for most courses (but higher for courses like engineering, medicine etc). Not sure what they want now - don't quite understan NCEA grading - but it seems pretty difficult to NOT achieve university entrance. But this isn't quite the place to rant about NCEA.

Haya,
Interest is always taxed isn't it? And at a higher rate if you don't have an IRD number.

I meant NZ. No worries.

For architecture you'll need more than just SAT. They require a portfolio (examples of your work). It's pretty difficult to get into Auckland Uni's architecture course... a lot of people I know opt for Unitec (a polytech) cos Auckland Uni rejected them. Not sure how it works for international students though.

If SAT without SPM works, I don't see why SAT with SPM won't work. That friend of mine who did SAT went thru a private homeschooling centre so she had ONLY SAT.

I dunno about her scores. When I asked her she just said SAT. Homeschool test scores can't be very consistent right? Then again, it was AUT, a more 'inferior' institution. Where did your friend go?

About the inconsistency, I'd have thought the unis are better than other institutions though, since they do see lots of internationals. But it looks like they're still confused.

I went through hell trying to get the schools to understand what SPM was so they could place me in Year 13 (equivalent to Aus Year 12 and SAM). Had to do a lot of quick talking. Ended up with them testing my knowledge of physics, chemistry and maths right there in the office - who the heck remembers that sort of stuff in January after SPM anyway?

Fortunately they're getting better now more and more Malaysians are coming in.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jun 28 2007, 08:35 AM

Haya,
It's still Auckland Uni's winter break now, the other unis started semester 2 on Monday. Unfortunately, no break for me. Been caught up with my research.

PR? The easiest way is to get a job after graduation. Once that's done, fill in an 'expression of interest' form and if you meet the points requirement (which you should if you have a job related to your degree), the govt will invite you to apply for PR. I haven't heard of anyone turned down yet. Govt's been slowly tightening the immigration policy so things might change in the future. Especially with the elections coming up... if there's a change of govt you can bet there'll be a policy change.

Alternatively, find a million NZ dollars from somewhere and apply under the 'Investment' category.

But seriously, the fastest and easiest way now would be to learn hairdressing, beekeeping, bricklaying or some other trade. NZ's desperately short of skilled tradesmen/women. Those are trades on the critical shortage list. No need to worry about studying hard for a degree.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Jul 14 2007, 09:52 AM

Yes.

So you're doing commerce. What are you majoring in?

You're referring to Grafton Hall's internet right? If so, you can forgot about torrents and most (if not all p2ps). Grafton is part of the Uni of Auckland, which like most unis overseas, has very strict terms of internet usage. 2 reasons - they don't want to get involved with breaches of copyright issues and they want to control the total amount of usage (if every student starts downloading like crazy the system will collapse).

I'm not sure if you'll be able to get an external (commercial) internet provider into the hall. There might be infrastructure issues. Then again, there's always Whoosh which is wireless... but more expensive I believe.

Grafton is one of the nicer halls in Auckland Uni. Ground are quite nice, it's quite small so it's more friendly, intimate and less formal. Has a relatively high concentration of Malaysian 4th year and above students, mainly IMU people. Only issue is that the rooms tend to be pretty small, corridors dark and bathrooms could do with updating.

1) You actually don't need an IRD number when you open a bank account. But without one, your interest gets taxed a much higher rate. So you can come in, open an account, deposit money, then only apply for an IRD number. That way you'll be able to get money in nice and early etc. But don't take too long about applying for the IRD number.

2) It varies from person to person. Average temperature in summer 25 degrees, in winter 10 degrees. Factor wind chill in as well. You won't need those super-thick winter jackets but you'll need something more substantial than a windbreaker/jumper. Auckland is always raining (especially during winter and spring) so I recommend a water-proof jacket. Umbrellas are useless thanks to the wind.

3) Walking distance... no idea about the bus.

4) Books - I won't recommend unless there are a couple of really core texts that you'll need. Those are generally much cheaper to buy in Msia but they're also super-heavy. Other stuff... handphone... can't think of anything else atm.

5) Free landline is only for local calls, within Auckland. Definitely not to Australia, not even to other parts of NZ. It's not entirely free since subscribers have to pay for line rental in the first place (not cheap). But since you're staying in a hall, that'll be taken care off. Most halls' phones are toll-bared. To make external calls you'll have to get a pre-paid calling card.
Handphone - I recommend Vodafone. Telecom is annoying cos you have to use their phones, can't use your phone from Msia. Vodafone Prepay prices are 20c for domestic SMS, 30c for international, 89c or $1.49 per minute call depending on the plan. I never call, too expensive. A good prepaid plan is Supa Prepay with TXT2000 - gives you 2000 SMSs a month for only $10. Only to other Vodafone phones though and calls are darn expensive at $1.49.

6) $300 per week should be about it... provided you're not really into a flashy lifestyle.

This post has been edited by wornbook: Aug 8 2007, 12:36 PM

5) By local they mean within Auckland. As long as you don't have to dial an area code, it's local.
6) Tui is a brand of beer.


2) Customs - NZ customs have never checked my computer/hard-drive before. I don't think they ever will... they're much too worried about food and stuff that might destroy their agricultural sector. If you're worried, don't bring in any CDs/DVDs and just copy them into your computer. Should be fine then... But if you're really worried, just don't bring any over.
6) I dunno about every room etc. You'll have to check with the people at Grafton... they'll be able to give the most accurate info. I've never used Whoosh (use regular broadband) so can't help you there.


Hmm. I always thought O'Rouke was part of the uni. Anyway it looks quite pleasant from the outside but I've never been inside. Location is pretty good... just off the main street the city campus is on and within walking distance to the Grafton campus. Closer to main city centre/shopping area than Grafton Hall. Apart from that, I can't help you much, sorry.


Ya I know a couple of IMU people - in 5th and 6th years.
I've never stayed in Grafton but I have a few friends who do. Sorry no pics... I can ask my friends if they have pics but can't guarantee anything.

4) Cheap handphones are pretty easy to get (Telecom is currently selling a Sanyo for $49) but the catch is you'll have to go on plan. And you'll be bound to them for around 2 years (I think). Why not just buy a cheap one there? Unless it's a really special deal, the cheap phones in Msia are still cheaper than NZ.
6) $300? No lah... that's really extreme. You can get cheap (by NZ standards) here for around $10-15. There're some cheaper ones ($7-8) but those are mainly in the suburbs... will cost you more to travel there.

My broadband is Xtra. My plan costs $40 /month - 3GB limit and slow uploads. I don't download much, play games etc so it works for me. More info on plans - http://jetstream.xtra.co.nz/chm/0,8763,203086-202321,00.html
If you exceed the limit, they cut the speed.

I'll ask my IMU friends for their permission first. Will PM you their contacts if they say yes.


I think that's pretty standard for all halls. That's the advantage of Grafton. It's mainly a more mature crowd and they tend to put the IMU students together so it's less likely your neighbour will keep you awake with his/her nocturnal activities.


There are plenty of places in the Eastern Suburbs which have $10 haircuts (sometimes less). But once you factor in the $12.80 fare and 2 hours on uncomfortable seats for a round trip, it's not quite so worth it anymore. Unless of course, you have a car.


So true. As a general rule, Asians and other migrants/int'l students use Vodafone and local Kiwis use Telecom.

Yes they have... sigh. Prices just went up again. 5 stages (all the way to Pakuranga/Howick) one way now costs $6.40 (or maybe $6.50 can't remember). On a student concession it's $5.40. MADNESS!


I prefer the billboard ones.

You really need to check with the High Comm. Get it straight from the horse's mouth.


Same price. Pakuranga, Howick, Botany Downs and Bucklands Beach are all considered the same sector. It's still ridiculous though.

Aren't they the same kind of boots?

Sorry, one is really busy away on posting at Hamilton - she says she hardly goes online these days. The others are not keen on talking to strangers on the internet. However, one guy did offer to answer your questions, but through me. So if you have any questions, just ask me and I'll act as a messenger.

Hey, sorry for late reply. Didn't notice your post until today.

Anyway, I asked two people about your questions. Person A's reply - the pre-clinical taught in IMU is pretty good as prep before coming. No need to study extra stuff, all you need is what you've already done.
Person B - Kiwis are generally the better students but many IMU people have made it through Auckland Uni so no worries. Just need to adjust to new culture and environment, if your English is good that shouldn't be too hard.

Btw, check your PMs.

It depends on what you want to study right? They're different courses after all. But I would pick physio over chiropractic. Physiotherapists are recognised health care professionals whereas chiropractic is more on the 'alternative medicine' side of things.

Just a word of advice, if you choose to do physio in NZ, try applying somewhere else. AUT isn't exactly the best/most established and you'll have to pay high fees wither way. AFAIK, applications are still open. Keep your options open, you can always decide where to go later.