Frequently Asked Questions

International Students

What language is spoken in New Zealand?

The official languages of New Zealand are English and Maori. English is the main language spoken in New Zealand. It can be confusing when you first arrive in New Zealand as New Zealanders often speak quite quickly, use local slang and also mix a few Maori words and phrases into their everyday conversation. If you do not understand, or if someone is talking too fast please ask them to speak more slowly. You will find most people are happy to help you to understand.
What time do businesses open and close?

Although businesses are only open Monday to Friday, stores are almost always open on Saturday also. Shopping malls are open seven days a week. Stores and shopping malls generally open at 9am and close at 5.30pm. Thursday and Friday are often late night shopping evenings and most stores and shopping malls are open until 9pm.

Banks are open Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm. Some banks are also open on Saturday until midday.
How can I get to my accommodation from the airport?

There are buses and taxis available at the airport. If you prefer, we can arrange an Airport Collection for you (costs do apply). Please see the ‘Arriving in Auckland’ section of the website. If you have booked a homestay family through NZMA, you will see on the Homestay Application Form you can specify if you want to be met at the airport and be taken to your Hhomestay family.
Will I need a New Zealand bank account?

Having a New Zealand bank account makes your financial life much easier to manage while you are studying. It is also essential for having your wages paid while working in New Zealand. If you need assistance, we will guide you on how to open a bank account during your first week at NZMA.
Can I bring food into the country with me?

It is safest not to bring any food into the country as New Zealand has very strict rules about what food you can bring with you.
What sort of clothing should I bring?

You need to bring tidy, professional clothes to wear during class. That means a long-sleeved business shirt, a tie and business trousers for men and a long-sleeved business shirt plus a skirt or trousers for women. The course and resource fee covers most of the uniform but you’ll need your own pair of black solid leather shoes and a long-sleeved business shirt.

As the weather in New Zealand can be changeable, you should bring a variety of casual clothing that can be used in warm and cold weather, as well as in wet weather.
What is the weather like in Auckland?

Auckland enjoys a subtropical climate with warm humid summers and mild damp winters. Temperatures range between 20-30ºC in summer and between 10-15ºC in winter.
What documents should I bring with me?

It will make your time in New Zealand much easier if you bring the following documents with you:

- Birth certificate

- Marriage certificate (if applicable)

- Academic qualifications

- References from previous employers
Can I start my course and then organise my visa afterwards?

No. It is very important that you have a valid visa before you enrol on your course. If your visa has expired then we cannot legally enrol you. Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through Immigration New Zealand, and can be viewed on their website at www.immigration.govt.nz
What is the Code of Practice?

The Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students is an important document from the New Zealand Ministry of Education. It sets standards for the pastoral care of all international students studying in New Zealand. NZMA has agreed to observe and be bound by the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students as published by the Minister of Education. Copies of the code are available to download from the New Zealand Ministry of Education website at:
www.minedu.govt.nz/educationSectors/InternationalEducation/

We have copies and summaries of the code available for you to read in different languages.
Can you help me to find somewhere to live?

Yes. We can arrange homestay accommodation for you. We can also assist you in arranging hotel, hostel or private accommodation. You can click HERE to find out more about homestay accommodation.
Do I always have to speak English?

Yes. While you are in the Academy it is important that you speak English – even if it is sometimes easier to speak your own language. If your Student Support Advisor speaks your language then it is OK to speak to them in your language about personal matters.
I am under 18 years old. Can I study at NZMA?

No. If you are an international student, you must be at least 18 years old to study at New Zealand Management Academies.
What if I have a complaint?

First, you should see your Student Support Advisor. They will discuss it with you. They will also be able to advise you about how the complaints procedure works. During Induction Week you will be given more information about this process.
Is there any extra English help available during my course?

Yes. For those students studying diploma programmes, your tutors will be able to assist you with your English needs during your course – particularly during the first year of study.
How are the fees that I have paid protected?

Fees paid by students are banked directly into a trust account administered by an independent chartered accountant. The fees are only paid out of the trust account after the eighth day from the start of the course.
What happens if NZMA is unable to deliver my tuition?

In the unlikely event that NZMA is unable to deliver tuition for any reason, your fees are protected by a bank bond in favour of an independent third party (chartered accountant). This covers the unused portion of the fees paid for the course of study. NZMA has contracted a performance guarantee for the bond with the Westpac Banking Corporation.
Who can help me if I have a problem while I’m studying?

Each Academy has Student Support Advisors who are there to help students. You will meet them during your first week with us.

Auckland Central Academy (ACA) has a multi-lingual Student Services team providing advice on a broad range of matters such as banking, accommodation, public transport, visa and insurance information. NZMA diploma students can apply for online student permits and 12-month graduate work permits through the Student Services Centre which has an online visa agreement with the New Zealand Immigration Service.
What will happen during my first week?

Your first week at NZMA is Induction Week – an exciting week filled with FREE events and activities to introduce you to life at NZMA and in New Zealand.

Past activities have included boat cruises around the spectacular Auckland Harbour, lunch and coffee breaks with your classmates and comprehensive seminars on how to get employment through Redfish. You will be required to attend classes during Induction Week. On your first day you will be given a welcome pack, which will guide you through Induction Week and provide you with important information to help you during your time with us. Please read everything in it carefully.
What if my flight details change?

If your flight changes, it is important that you tell us straight away either through your Educational Consultant or email info@nzma.ac.nz.
Can I arrive late for the start of my course?

No. It is very important that you arrive in time for the start of your course as there will not be much time to catch up. It is a good idea to make sure that you book your flights well in advance.
How do I get a job?

NZMA owns a dedicated employment company called “Redfish”. You will meet the Redfish team during your Induction Week (your first week). You can also make appointments with Redfish through reception at anytime during your studies.
Can I work part time while I study?

If you are studying for a Diploma in Business or Hospitality Management then you may work for up to 20 hours per week on your student permit once you have applied for a variation of conditions. For other courses, you are not entitled to work.
What happens if I do not come to class or if I withdraw from my course?

In this case, we have to inform New Zealand Immigration. This may mean that your visa will be revoked. Please note the refund policy in the International Student Enrolment Form.
How do I pay my fees?

Once you receive your Conditional Offer of Place and invoice you can pay your fees. Please see the How to Apply section for more information.
Is there an application fee?

No. There is no application fee to study at NZMA.
Do I have to have medical insurance?

Yes. International students (including group students) must have appropriate and current medical and travel insurance while they are in New Zealand. For more information please see the “Health and Welfare” section.
How easy will it be for me to get a job after I finish my course?

We pride ourselves on delivering real skills with real results. Your education with us will give you a great start to your career, however your employment success is mainly upto you. If you have an excellent attitude and are committed to finding work then the chances of finding a job that suits your particular skills and qualifications are very high.

NZMA owns a dedicated specialist employment company called Redfish. You can make appointments with Redfish through reception at any time during your studies. In addition, your course will include training in the areas of CV preparation, interview techniques and job search skills so that you will be well prepared and have plenty of support in your search for a job.
Do I have to do anything if I change my address?

Yes. You must tell your Student Advisor if you change your contact details, your type of accommodation or your residential address.
What happens if NZMA is unable to deliver my tuition?

In the unlikely event that NZMA is unable to deliver tuition for any reason, your fees are protected by a bank bond in favour of an independent third party (Chartered Accountant). This covers the unused portion of the fees paid for the course of study. NZMA has contracted a performance guarantee for the bond with the Westpac Banking Corporation.
How are the fees that I have paid protected?

Fees paid by students are banked directly into a Trust Account administered by an independent Chartered Accountant. The fees are only paid out of the Trust Account after the eighth day from the start of the course.
How many students will be in my class?

Our normal class sizes are between 20 - 25. Sometimes there may be larger classes for lecture-type sessions.
What happens in the first week of the course?

The first week is induction week. You will learn about the academy and its rules, meet your fellow students and complete evaluations to help us gauge your learning style so that we can tailor our teaching to best meet your needs.
Are there other allowances available for my course?

In some cases, if you meet the above criteria, you may be able to apply for other allowances. Your Student Advisor will be able to tell you more about the options open to you.
Are student loans and allowances available for my course?

If you are a New Zealand or Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident then you may apply for a student loan and/or a student allowance during your time on the course. Your Student Advisor will be able to help you to apply for your loan or allowance.

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New Zealand Students

How easy will it be for me to get a job after I finish my course?

We pride ourselves on delivering real skills with real results. Your education with us will give you a great start to your career, however your employment success is mainly upto you. If you have an excellent attitude and are committed to finding work then the chances of finding a job that suits your particular skills and qualifications are very high.

NZMA owns a dedicated specialist employment company called Redfish. You can make appointments with Redfish through reception at any time during your studies. In addition, your course will include training in the areas of CV preparation, interview techniques and job search skills so that you will be well prepared and have plenty of support in your search for a job.
Do I have to do anything if I change my address?

Yes. You must tell your Student Advisor if you change your contact details, your type of accommodation or your residential address.
What happens if NZMA is unable to deliver my tuition?

In the unlikely event that NZMA is unable to deliver tuition for any reason, your fees are protected by a bank bond in favour of an independent third party (Chartered Accountant). This covers the unused portion of the fees paid for the course of study. NZMA has contracted a performance guarantee for the bond with the Westpac Banking Corporation.
How are the fees that I have paid protected?

Fees paid by students are banked directly into a Trust Account administered by an independent Chartered Accountant. The fees are only paid out of the Trust Account after the eighth day from the start of the course.
How many students will be in my class?

Our normal class sizes are less than 20. Sometimes there may be larger classes for lecture-type sessions.
What happens in the first week of the course?

The first week is induction week. You will learn about the academy and its rules, meet your fellow students and complete evaluations to help us gauge your learning style so that we can tailor our teaching to best meet your needs.
Are there other allowances available for my course?

In some cases, if you meet the above criteria, you may be able to apply for other allowances. Your Student Advisor will be able to tell you more about the options open to you.
Are student loans and allowances available for my course?

If you are a New Zealand or Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident then you may apply for a student loan and/or a student allowance during your time on the course. Your Student Advisor will be able to help you to apply for your loan or allowance.

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