Currency New Zealand's unit of currency is the dollar (NZ$). The majority of major credit cards can be used in Aotearoa New Zealand, with Visa and Mastercard being accepted most widely. Cash is less commonly used in New Zealand. Before departing for Aotearoa New Zealand, you should exchange your home country's currency for about NZD$100-200 in order to cover incidental expenses during your first few days in Aotearoa New Zealand. New Zealand dollars can be purchased at large banks and at most international airports. To check current exchange rates, visit Oanda. There are a number of ways to...

New Zealand cuisine, especially in Auckland, blends fresh local ingredients with diverse international influences, reflecting the country’s rich Māori heritage and multicultural population. Students visiting for the first time can expect everything from traditional dishes like hāngī (earth-oven cooked meats and vegetables) and fish and chips by the beach to vibrant Asian fusion eateries and world-class coffee culture. The food scene is relaxed, creative, and deeply connected to the land and sea—perfect for those eager to explore bold flavors in a welcoming atmosphere. Depot Eatery - Famous for...

Auckland’s climate is temperate and coastal, with mild temperatures and moderate humidity year-round. Because New Zealand is located in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are the reverse of what you may be used to in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer in Auckland occurs from December through February, bringing warm, pleasant weather and long daylight hours. In late January, temperatures typically range between 17°C and 24°C, though some days can feel warmer due to humidity. Short rain showers are common, so a light rain jacket or compact umbrella is useful. Most students dress casually during...

For more location-specific tips, check out these packing tips from former IES Abroad students. Auckland's climate is generally mild, lacking the extremes of heat or cold. Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, seasons are the reverse of what you may be accustomed to. In New Zealand, summer takes place from December-February, autumn takes place from March-May, winter takes place from June-August, and spring takes place from September-November. The average temperature in Auckland in the summer is around 23°C, while the average temperature in the winter is a mild 13°C. If you are...

A visa is a government-issued official authorization that is attached to your passport; it grants you entry into and travels within a particular country for an allotted period of time. Most students traveling to New Zealand on IES/SAF programs will need to obtain either a visa or a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) prior to their arrival in New Zealand. You can check if you need a visa or NZeTA here. You are responsible for determining your visa needs and ensuring you have all proper documentation prior to your arrival in New Zealand. Reach out to your SAF Program Advisor or your...

Auckland Center On-Site From your home country: +64.22.568.3621 From New Zealand: +64.22.568.3621 To schedule an on-site appointment with the Program Manager, please contact them via the Center Phone Number.

You Need a Cell Phone According to IES Abroad policy, you must have a working cell phone within a week of your arrival. Students typically opt for one of the following: Use your cell phone from home if your provider offers an international phone plan. Bring an unlocked smartphone and purchase either a physical sim card or e-sim card, if available. This option is recommended. Note that U.S. iPhone 14 models or later do not have a SIM tray, so users can only use eSIMs (if carrier supports eSIM tech) rather than a physical SIM card. Independently purchase or rent a physical cell phone from a...

IES Abroad will provide reasonable accommodations for students that wish to exercise religious or spiritual practices or beliefs that do not cause undue hardship to IES Abroad or our partners. All accommodation requests must be valid, supported by appropriate documentation, and based on religious practices. Accommodations will be granted within the limits of existing housing resources and policies. Students should expect to live in a respectful environment with peers of various religious backgrounds; accommodations are designed to support an inclusive community rather than to separate students...