By Jessica Mew, ISA New Zealand Program Manager
Christchurch is the gateway to New Zealand’s beautiful South Island as it is conveniently located to several must see sites in New Zealand, such as Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown (the adventure capital of the world), and the Milford Sound to name a few. It is nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the foothills of the Southern Alps, which provides the ideal location for the best adventure of your life!
Students studying abroad in Christchurch would be studying at the University of Canterbury, which offers a wide range of courses to meet your academic needs. The University of Canterbury has a strong focus on research-based teaching and are leaders in the fields of engineering, natural sciences, sustainability and conservation, and forestry. Also, with its close location – they also offer courses in Antarctic Studies.
Ever dreamed to surf AND ski on the same day? Well, it is definitely possible in Christchurch! You can spend the day surfing in Sumner’s Beach, which is a short bus ride from campus and then head up to mountains for an afternoon of skiing. The University of Canterbury’s Snow Sports Club even owns a lodge at Temple Basin that students can join to meet new friends, carpool, and to ski the Southern Alps!
The South Island also contains 9 out of the 13 New Zealand national parks, which provide students with ample room to explore the natural beauties that New Zealand is known for. The University of Canterbury has a very active tramping club (hiking for us, Americans) which students can join upon arrival.
For students who prefer to take in the New Zealand’s beautiful scenery and have a more laid back approach, you definitely still can! Christchurch offers several cute beach towns that students can visit on the weekend for some fun in the sun. Additionally, with Christchurch’s prime location, it offers beautiful photo opportunities to everyone! Check out our ISA Photo Blog winners who have studied abroad in Christchurch for proof. Studying abroad in Christchurch will provide all your friends with some Instagram envy, we promise!
Still not sold? With its prime location, well known and respected university – the University of Canterbury also provides students studying abroad with ISA with $15,000 NZD worth of scholarship funds a year! Students interested in applying for the University of Canterbury host scholarship can learn more about it here. Also, Education New Zealand and Go Overseas are offering their 4th annual $15,000 USD scholarship opportunity.
Christchurch provides the perfect study abroad location for students wanting easy access to everything the South Island has to offer – whether you are just wanting to view its natural beauty or to go mountain biking every weekend. Additionally, the University of Canterbury offers courses that can meet your academic needs, scholarship opportunities to help fund your program, and a great support system to get you started in New Zealand.
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