Life In NZ
Hidden away at the bottom of the world lies Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud. A mecca for the adventurous and innovative, New Zealand has become home to people from around the world, resulting in a diverse multi-cultural population of 4.3 million.
Separated by the Cook Strait, New Zealand’s two main islands (North and South) provide a varied landscape made famous by movies such as The Lord of the Rings, The Piano, The Last Samurai and The Whale Rider.
While Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, Wellington is actually our capital city and is home to our democratic parliament. New Zealand still retains connections to the United Kingdom, in particular, as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.
New Zealand’s first European settlers were a brave independent group of people and as such have shaped New Zealand into what it is today – dynamic, pioneering and always ready with the Kiwi ingenuity for which we have become famous.
Kiwi culture has been largely influenced by both European (Pakeha) ideals and indigenous Maori culture. The Maori people were the first settlers in Aotearoa (New Zealand), travelling here in canoes (waka) over 1000 years ago. Today, the rich and vibrant Maori culture and language are an integral part of New Zealand life.
Auckland
Auckland is located in the North Island of New Zealand and is the largest urban area in the country. Auckland was voted as one of the top five cities in theworld for offering the best quality of living (2009, www.mercer.com). Join us at NZMA and experience life in Auckland for yourself.
The economic hub of New Zealand is the Auckland region, which is made up of four cities: Auckland (central), North Shore (north), Waitakere (west) and Manukau (south/east). Each city has its own unique sub-culture, from the colourful Polynesian festivals in south Auckland to the café culture scene that you will discover in the central suburbs – there is something for everyone!
NZMA has academies located in Auckland Central, Auckland West, Auckland South and Hamilton (just south of Auckland) – all with their own unique flavor. Click here for more information about our academies.
From world-class educational facilities and metropolitan shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs to adventure sports, pristine native forests, unpolluted rivers and beaches – we have it all at our front door in Auckland.
What will your Auckland adventure be?
Tourism Auckland has just launched their new interactive website that allows you to choose your own Auckland adventure. Visit Tourism Auckland online and plan your Auckland adventure today!
Places to see & things to do
There are many exciting things to do and wonderful places to go while you are here in Aotearoa! Here at NZMA we have information on a variety of great activities from tours to the South Islands to exploring volcanic islands around Auckland Harbour. You will be amazed at the dramatically different landscapes and cultural influences throughout New Zealand. This is your time to explore – give it a go!
For more information about what you can do in Auckland please click HERE
For more information about what you can do in New Zealand please click HERE
