Preparing to Study Abroad New Zealand by IFSA-Butler

Preparing to Study Abroad

Why Did You Choose New Zealand for Study Abroad?

Alexander Cates Hamilton College IFSA-Butler Program: University of Otago

I always had a dream to go to New Zealand. Its land-scape and wildlife are so unique that it made it to the he top of my bucket list, and I took the opportunity to go there when I got it.

Katie Oxman Franklin & Marshall College IFSA-Butler Program: University of Otago

As a geology major, I wanted to see all the amazing things I had learned about in classes. Although the east coast of America does have some very small mountains, they are nothing compared to the snow- covered mountains in New Zealand, as well as the beaches in front of cliffs, dormant (and active) volcanoes, and glacial valleys.

Kit Allgaier Bucknell University IFSA-Butler Program: Victoria University Wellington

I chose New Zealand because the schools there have distinguished psychology programs. I also wanted to go somewhere special; since I was going for such a long time, I wanted somewhere I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t easily get to. My study abroad advisor told me to go with my heart.

CONTENTS 2 Welcome from IFSA-Butler 3 Welcome from Our New Zealand Office 4 Overview of New Zealand 8 IFSA-Butler Support 13 Academics 22 Finances 22 Payments and Financial Aid 26 Managing Your Money Abroad 28 Student Expenses Abroad 31 Getting Ready to Leave 31 Official Travel Documents 33 Booking Your Flight to New Zealand 34 Insurance and Health Care 38 Packing 41 Technology and Communications 44 Living Abroad 44 Housing 47 Legal Matters 48 Health and Safety 53 Emergencies Abroad 54 Culture Shock 55 IFSA-Butler Policies 57 Information 57 Information Resources 58 Common Terms and Slang 59 New Zealand Food and Drink 60 About Us

Preparing to Study Abroad NEW ZEALAND

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Welcome from IFSA-Butler Welcome to our programs in New Zealand! We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to study abroad through IFSAButler, one of the oldest and largest nonprofit international education organizations in the United States. At IFSA-Butler, we take our slogan “More Culture. Less Shock.” very seriously. One of our top goals is to make sure that students and their parents are as prepared for the study abroad experience as possible, and this comprehensive planning guide is one way of achieving this goal. It should answer many of your questions about living and studying in New Zealand, from academic and cultural differences to the cost of living abroad to packing suggestions, and everything in between. The topics covered in this book are some of the most important issues related to study abroad in New Zealand, and we’ve incorporated suggestions from past participants as well. Most of our dedicated staff, both in the U.S. and in New Zealand, have lived and studied in a variety of countries. They have personally experienced the joys of living in another culture, as well as the occasional frustration! Their enthusiasm for international study and understanding of cultural issues helps us give each IFSA-Butler student a successful and enriching academic experience abroad. We wish you an exciting and successful experience in New Zealand! Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. Institute for Study Abroad U.S. Office 800-858-0229

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Sian Munro Director of New Zealand Programs

Welcome from Our New Zealand Office Welcome to the IFSA-Butler New Zealand study abroad program and what is certain to be a memorable chapter in your life. Packing up and traveling to a new country can be exciting and a little daunting as you look forward to new experiences full of promise and the unknown. IFSA-Butler is here to assist with the transition to New Zealand and to help you get the most out of your semester or year abroad. Studying at an established university is one of the best ways to integrate into New Zealand society and see the country from an insider’s perspective. While aspects of New Zealand society may seem similar to what you’re used to at first, it is very much a different culture with its own history, practices and influences for you to discover. New Zealand continues to embrace its proximity to Asia and the Pacific, to work on indigenous relations, and to attract students, visitors and immigrants from all over the world. You will find a vibrant, unique and cosmopolitan mix of people in the cities and towns you visit. Putting yourself in new situations, meeting new people and learning about a different country also causes you to find out new things about yourself you may never have discovered had you not stepped outside of your comfort zone. You may discover resourcefulness, interests and tastes you never knew you possessed! We urge you to take full advantage of this opportunity. Take at least one “New Zealand” course (Maori Studies or New Zealand Literature, for example) while you’re in New Zealand and see as much of the country as you can without neglecting your academic obligations. The information provided in this book and in other publications you’ll receive from IFSA-Butler will help you get the most out of your experiences. Thoroughly read the information and come prepared to give New Zealand a “fair go.” See you there! Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University New Zealand Office

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O V E RV I E W

Overview of New Zealand Geography If all of New Zealand could be described in just two words, it would be “nature’s playground.” You’ll find remarkably varied geography in New Zealand, including rugged mountains and coastlines, volcanic peaks, forests, vast plains, glaciers, rolling hills and sandy beaches. Yet in the midst of these beautiful and natural landscapes, urban centers such as Auckland (Tamakimakau-rau), Christchurch (Otautahi), Dunedin (Otepoti) and Wellington (Te Whanganui-aTara) provide all of the advantages of cosmopolitan city life. More than 80 percent of all New Zealanders live in urban areas. New Zealand has two main islands, the North Island (Te Ika-a-Maui) and the South Island (Te Waka-oMaui), with Stewart Island and many smaller islands also forming part of the nation. The concentration of population in New Zealand’s two largest cities, Auckland and Wellington, has given the North Island a somewhat more urban atmosphere, but with landscapes as diverse as volcanic rock, tussock grasses, rolling valleys and farmland.

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Separated from the North Island by the Cook Strait, the South Island is home to rugged coasts, sprawling farmland and Mt. Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s highest mountain. The spine of the Southern Alps dominates the island and helps form the picturesque landscape for which New Zealand is known. Although larger than the North Island, the South Island houses only one-fourth of the nation’s population, the largest cities being Christchurch and Dunedin. New Zealand’s location in the southern reaches of the Pacific Ocean makes for a temperate, not tropical, climate. Summers are warm but not oppressive, and winter temperatures are generally cool but can fall below freezing in some southern locations. New Zealand weather is quite varied.

People Maoritanga (Maori Culture) The Tangata Whenua, indigenous people or Maori, first arrived in New Zealand more than 1,000 years ago. Maori culture has a high regard for nurturing the land and a belief that all living things are descended from the kaitiaki, or guardian spirits. Maori beliefs and traditional crafts are highly regarded by both Maori and non-Maori, and Maori language and culture thrive today with increasing attention being given to both at all levels of the educational system.

Traditional Maori society revolved around the marae (a sacred, open meeting area) of each tribal-based community; however, a need for employment and education opportunities saw the great majority of rural-based Maori communities shift to urban areas in the 1970s. This flourishing of urban-based Maori provided a cultural and political focal point for the community. The marae remains an important political and cultural center for each Maori community. Visitors are welcomed into the marae with a sequence of formal protocols and traditional hospitality. IFSA-Butler New Zealand orientation will include a marae visit and you will also have ample opportunity to experience elements of Maori culture throughout New Zealand. Many New Zealand museums offer great insights into Maori cultural heritage. European Settlers The Dutch explorer Abel Tasman sailed around the South Island in 1642, but the majority of European settlers began arriving in New Zealand in the early 1800s. European immigration increased exponentially with the establishment of The New Zealand Company in London in 1837, which aimed to promote the British colonization of New Zealand. The New Zealand Company later established settlements at Wellington, Nelson, Wanganui and Dunedin and offered free travel and the possibility of reasonable land prices to prospective settlers. Modern New Zealanders The people of New Zealand are a blend of Māori, European, Pacific Island and Asian descent, making this modern nation a diverse, multicultural society. About 74 percent of New Zealanders are of European descent, 15 percent are indigenous Māori, 12 percent are Asian and are 7 percent are non-Māori Pacific Islanders. Most of the population lives in the North Island, with one-third living in Auckland. The other main cities of Wellington, Christchurch and Hamilton are where the majority of the remaining Kiwis dwell.

Treaty of Waitangi Like Australia and the United States, New Zealand has experienced both political and cultural tensions with its indigenous population. The Treaty of Waitangi, signed in 1840, formally established Britain’s colonization of New Zealand, but differing interpretations of the English and Māori versions have sparked disputes over land rights and other issues.

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Politics Structure Once part of the British Empire, New Zealand has been an independent country since 1907 but still is a member of the Commonwealth. New Zealand has a Constitutional Monarchy with the Queen of England as its official head of state. As with other Commonwealth countries, the Queen’s role is primarily ceremonial. A governor-general is the representative of the Queen in New Zealand and is viewed by some as the de facto head of state, but like the Queen, this role is primarily ceremonial. In practice, the nation’s leader is the prime minister. Not surprisingly, New Zealand’s judicial and political systems are quite similar to those of the United Kingdom, with a few modern modifications. The New Zealand Parliament has one democratically elected chamber and the leader of the majority political party serves as prime minister. Members of the Cabinet are appointed by the prime minister. Political Parties New Zealand’s two largest parties are the liberal Labour Party and the conservative National Party. Other parties represented in Parliament are ACT, the Greens, the New Zealand First Party, United Future, Māori Party and the Mana Party.

Religion New Zealand is largely a secular nation. Many Kiwis claim no religious affiliation, but more than half of the population affiliates with a Christian religion, of which Anglican, Catholic and Presbyterian are the largest faiths. The largest non-Christian religions are Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Spiritualism and New Age religions. Religious affiliation is not regarded as an issue of discomfort in New Zealand, and visitors and locals alike live side by side while sharing different beliefs and observances.

New Zealand Culture Until the 1960s, New Zealand immigrants came almost exclusively from the U.K., thus giving the country and its culture a distinctly British feel. Nevertheless, most immigrants came in search of a less class-dominated society and made the Kiwi culture a staunchly egalitarian one. As a result, New Zealanders enjoy a reputa-

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tion for being laid-back, informal and friendly. Recent migration trends have resulted in large numbers of people from Asia and the South Pacific making New Zealand their home. Maori Influence Despite historical and lingering tensions over the treatment of New Zealand’s Maori population, the Maori language, customs and traditions have become a source of pride for New Zealanders of all backgrounds. You will find Maori language on public buildings, Maori art on display in numerous settings and national pride in traditions such as the Haka dance. Casual Attitude Kiwis are typically friendly, outgoing and polite. Most of our students find fellow students and non-students alike to be approachable and friendly. Because of the country’s egalitarian nature, titles are not considered tremendously important, and adults generally address each other by first names even upon first meeting. Dress in New Zealand in almost any setting is typically neat but casual. Sports New Zealanders love sports. The mild but varied climate allows Kiwis to enjoy great sports and outdoor activities year round. Rugby is a favorite national sport and the All Blacks, the national team, have dominated world competition for years. The fast-paced court game of netball is played by both men and women, and adventure sports abound. New Zealand offers fantastic hiking, water and snow sports, as well as adrenaline-filled activities like bungy jumping, sky diving and blackwater rafting. In addition, cricket, yachting, soccer and skiing are popular diversions for Kiwis young and old. Environmentalism Kiwis are known for their environmental awareness and have a strong desire to preserve their country’s beauty. Recycling and environmental activism are dominant themes in modern Kiwi culture, and the government imposes huge fines for importing food or other products that threaten the local ecosystems. Travel New Zealanders have the good fortune to live in an area full of vacation possibilities: the Pacific Islands, Australia and Southeast Asia. As a visiting student in New Zealand, you may be tempted to explore these places, but remember that they are not just at New

Zealand’s back door. Australia is 1,900 kilometers to the northwest and popular Asian destinations, such as Singapore, Thailand and Hong Kong, are as far away as a 10-hour flight. Agriculture Agriculture remains a principle component of the national economy, despite the fact that the majority of Kiwis live in cities. Commercial fishing, forestry, wine production and widespread farming of livestock and crops keep the country’s food costs reasonable and make New Zealand a major player in international trade. Tourism and international education are additional contributors of significance to the economy. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of wool—there are approximately seven sheep to every person in New Zealand!

Don’t be afraid to talk to and make friends outside of your comfort zone. It may be easier to connect with and fit in with the American students, but it is beyond worth it to learn more about yourself and life in New Zealand by spending time with some Kiwis instead. –Katie Oxman Franklin & Marshall College University of Otago

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IFSA-BUTLER SUPPORT

Institute for Study Abroad Services At IFSA-Butler, we pride ourselves on our outstanding student support and comprehensive services. We work hard to ensure that our students (and their parents) are well prepared before departure, and that our students have an excellent experience abroad. Below are some of the highlights of our pre-arrival, on-site and post-study abroad support.

Program Advisors Each IFSA-Butler New Zealand program has a U.S.-based advisor who is available to answer your academic, cultural and program questions about New Zealand or study abroad in general. Your program advisor processes your application, serves as the contact between you and your host university and helps prepare any necessary paperwork for your housing and courses abroad. Your program advisor is your main IFSA-Butler contact person in the U.S. and is here to help prepare you for your great adventure!

IFSA-Butler Finance Office While your program advisor is your main contact for most IFSA-Butler and study abroad questions, you or your parents may also work with the IFSA-Butler finance office on money matters. The staff in the finance office send program bills, process payments, make payments for all of your New Zealand university housing and tuition, and prepare contractual agreements with U.S. universities to ensure a smooth transfer of financial aid to our programs. You can reach our finance office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET at 800-858-0229.

New Zealand Office IFSA-Butler maintains a fully staffed office in New Zealand dedicated to the assistance and support of our students. Support services include: • A thorough orientation for students upon their arrival • Activities and events during orientation • Organizing co-curricular activities and special events for students • Verifying the full-time course enrollment of each student • Personal and academic assistance to students • 24/7 availability for help with emergencies You can call our New Zealand office from the United States at 011-64-4-471-0145. The IFSAButler New Zealand office address is: C/O Office Suites Wellington Limited P.O. Box 25480 Featherston Street Wellington 6146 Our staff are available to assist you throughout your study abroad program.

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Pre-arrival Preparation Materials IFSA-Butler prepares you for your study abroad experience by sending a series of publications, updates and emails. These materials include: •

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Advising emails from your IFSA-Butler program advisor. These emails cover some general New Zealand preparations such as visa application instructions and health insurance information, but they mostly center on details specific to your program and host city. Money Matters, a booklet focused on program fees, financial aid, scholarships and other topics related to finances. This Preparing to Study Abroad booklet. We send an electronic copy to students. We are always happy to provide a print copy to students and parents, when contact information is provided, upon request.

We send digital copies of the above materials to parents of our students when contact information is provided. We also send bills to parents. If you don’t want your parents to receive these materials, you must notify us and provide an alternate billing address.

Travel Arrangements IFSA-Butler partners with STA Travel to offer travel booking assistance for our students. There are several advantages to booking your flight reservations through STA: • Work with an experienced travel agent • Lock in the price of your international ticket with a deposit and pay the rest later • Reduce or eliminate change fees with the option of a Multiflex Pass for flexible travel dates • Compare airfare prices between airlines so you book a ticket that works for your budget and travel time • International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is included Any program student who arrives on their program date within the published arrival window will be provided with ground transportation from the airport to IFSA-Butler orientation.

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New Zealand Orientation—Semester and Year Programs The IFSA-Butler orientation in New Zealand, scheduled before the start of classes, provides a great opportunity to inform you of our services and prepare you for the academic and cultural changes that await you. All students are required to attend the full IFSA-Butler orientation program and to remain on site throughout orientation. The orientation program lasts four days and takes place in an outdoor activity center outside of Auckland city. You must plan your travel so that you arrive in time for the first day of orientation at the time and location designated in your pre-arrival materials. During orientation, our New Zealand staff will address the following topics, all geared toward helping you better understand your new environment and easing your adjustment into your new culture: • Differences between U.S. and New Zealand academics • An overview of New Zealand’s culture • Safety abroad, including precautions for natural disasters • Course registration and other academic practices • Individual university sessions • Housing • Health care • Immigration documents and requirements • Study abroad survival skills • Distribution of wallet-sized emergency cards, which include emergency numbers for police, fire and ambulance, as well as our New Zealand office after-hours emergency number. Marae Visit Our orientations in New Zealand include an overnight stay at a Maori sacred meeting house, known as a marae. Housing and Meals During Orientation IFSA-Butler provides housing and meals during orientation, but don’t forget to budget funds for snacks and personal expenses. See the “Cost of Living” section in this book for more information.

New Zealand Orientation—Summer Programs Our summer program orientation is abbreviated due to the shorter academic schedules of summer programs, but it includes all of the key cultural, academic and safety issues listed above. Most meals are included.

Important: For All Students All of our orientation meetings are mandatory and participation in activities is highly recommended. IFSA-Butler reserves the right to withdraw you from the program, with no refund, if you miss all or part of the orientation.

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Co-curricular Activities and Activities— Semester and Year Programs IFSA-Butler offers numerous co-curricular activities and events as part of our semester and year programs in New Zealand. All of these activities are included in our program fee. The following co-curricular activities allow our students to experience the country’s beautiful landscape, history and culture: Cultural and sporting events • An overnight stay at a marae as part of the IFSAButler orientation • Attend a theatre performance/arts festival event • Visit a brewery or winery • Attend a rugby match when in season • Two-day New Zealand experience weekend • Volunteering event Co-curricular Activities Co-curricular activities and activities vary by program (see below). Previous co-curricular activities included, but were not limited to: University of Auckland and Massey University Auckland: • A Kiwi night out: Head out on the water in the ‘City of Sails’. Enjoy a sailing experience where you get behind the wheel and steer the boat. See the city from a new perspective, and enjoy tasty food and great company. • New Zealand Experience weekend: Visit renowned geothermal area of Rotorua. Mountain bike through forest, check out bubbling mud pools and test your speed limits on a luge ride high above the city University of Canterbury: • From the Mountains to the Sea day trip: Travel to the top of the South Island and join your North

Island counterparts for dolphin watching, kayaking, hiking and wine tasting in and around Picton. • Adventure Adrenaline Overload: Whitewater rafting day trip in the grade 5 Rangitata River, plenty of thrills and stunning scenery nestled below the Southern Alps. Massey University Palmerston North: • Action-packed day trip to the Kapiti Coast with quad biking, stunning views and a great lunch. • Cultural trip to Wellington for the “World of WearableArt” awards show to see some seriously creative “fashion.” University of Otago: • Overnight boat trip on Doubtful Sound or Milford Sound in the heart of Fiordland, including kayaking and a visit to a bird sanctuary. • Day trip on ice: check out the world renowned Moeraki Boulders before an afternoon of ice curling, skating and eating among the amazing scenery of Otago’s great outdoors. Victoria University and Massey University Wellington: • Dolphin watching, kayaking, walking and wine tasting in nature’s best adventure playground, the Marlborough Sounds. • Volunteer event: Cruise the Wellington harbor before a rewarding day of eco-action tending to native plantings on the historic Matiu and Somes Island. Other activities/extras • T-shirt • Farewell meal

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Co-curricular Activities—Summer Programs IFSA-Butler offers a smaller number of co-curricular activities and activities for summer students. Events vary by location but usually include a lunch and at least one visit to a historic or cultural site in the region of the summer program. In addition, most host universities offer cultural events and entertainment as part of their summer programs. We encourage our summer students to take advantage of these activities as much as possible.

Emergency Assistance Abroad One of IFSA-Butler’s most important services is our emergency assistance to students. Our staff in New Zealand are trained in crisis management and have extensive experience handling student incidents and emergencies. Our staff in New Zealand share emergency phone coverage and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help with any emergency. See “Emergencies Abroad” on page 53 for more information.

Transcripts You will receive a Butler University transcript recording the grades and credits from your host university. For information about our registration and transcript policies, see these topics under “Academics” in the next section of this booklet.

Program Duration Please note that IFSA-Butler program services abroad are in effect between the program start date and program end date on the program calendar.

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ACADEMICS

Academic Differences Specialization in New Zealand The primary difference between the U.S. and New Zealand educational systems is the e level of specialization. In the United States, you are probably accustomed to a liberal arts ts education in which you select courses from a wide variety of subjects, from introductory to o advanced levels. Most students in the United d States arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t required to narrow their academic mic focus until their second or third year of a fourryear university program. New Zealand students, ents, however, usually complete their undergraduate uate degrees in three years and are thus more focused cused and specialized. A fourth year, or honors, is an option for those who have demonstrated academic emic prowess during their undergraduate program. Until the age of 16, all students in New Zealand study as many as eight subjects per year. Those planning to apply to university then narrow their focus to five or six subjects for the final two years of secondary school. In this system, students enter university already possessing an extensive background in the subject(s) they plan to study. The New Zealand University System All New Zealand universities are public institutions, thus New Zealand student fees are heavily subsidized by the New Zealand government, while international students pay full tuition fees. In general, New Zealand universities are more akin to the British university

As a U.S. student entering the New Zealand system, you willll need to adjust to an academic environment that offers fewer class instruction hours per week and emphasizes individual study outside the classroom.

system, with greater emphasis put on self-directed learning, fewer class hours and more independent study. As a U.S. student entering the New Zealand system, you will need to adjust to this new academic environment. Course Structure Generally, the structure of a New Zealand course, also called â&#x20AC;&#x153;papers,â&#x20AC;? combines both lectures and seminars/ tutorials/labs. Each course usually consists of two to three main lectures per week and one or two tutorials/seminars. Tutorials and seminars are structured so that lecture material and class readings can be discussed in a smaller setting with the facilitation of a tutor (not necessarily the course lecturer). In some cases, tutorials may be optional, while in others attendance will be compulsory and you may be assessed on your level of participation. Attendance is recorded and graded, and failure to attend the majority of lectures and tutorials can result in a professor refusing admission into the final exam and/or giving you a much lower grade. Reading Lists and Writing Skills Preparation for tutorials and seminars often involves reading selected materials from a course textbook, in addition to items from a recommended reading list distributed by course lecturers at the beginning of the semester.

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Selecting and reading some of the books from the recommended reading list will greatly enhance your depth of knowledge and will likely result in a higher grade. Remember that the New Zealand university culture places a high value on self-directed learning. Since most New Zealand university courses require at least one essay and very few multiple-choice exams, good writing skills are essential. If you require some refinement of this skill, you can get help from your individual tutors, academic advisors or on-campus study skills centers. Remember to change the settings on your computer from “U.S. English” to “New Zealand English,” and to spell check any work before handing it in. During the academic briefing portion of the IFSA-Butler orientation, our New Zealand staff will offer further assistance and suggestions about how to write essays and the different referencing systems used within New Zealand universities. If you start to feel that you lack assignments or have “nothing to do,” you may have misunderstood the system. Contact your lecturers or the IFSA-Butler New Zealand staff for advice on organizing the workload early in the semester or term. Grades and Credits In New Zealand, students work toward an overall mark for their course. New Zealand universities use both letters (A–E) and percentages as marks for essays and exams, while your final grade will be a letter (A–E). Grade inflation is uncommon in New Zealand and 50 percent is a passing grade. Therefore, it is a significant achievement to attain an A grade. You will have to work hard if you expect to achieve the A and B grades to which you might be accustomed in the United States. If you are a good student in the United States, your success will probably continue in New Zealand if you work hard and make the effort to adjust to a different system of academics. Your New Zealand grades and credits will be translated into U.S. equivalents for your Butler University transcript. Our New Zealand staff will explain this grade conversion process during IFSA-Butler orientation and more information can be found in the Student Handbook. Most U.S. study abroad offices have a written policy on credit earned toward the degree at an institution abroad and how it is recorded on the permanent record. We recommend you check with your home

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institution to find out the policy on transfer credit before going abroad. Some U.S. colleges and universities do not transfer credit for courses with a grade less than a C. Exams In most cases, New Zealand universities tend to have fewer assignments and assessments than what U.S. students may be used to. Furthermore, when assignments are given, rather than being spread evenly throughout the duration of the course, they are often loaded toward the end of the semester. It is not unusual for a final grade to be based on two essays (one completed soon after the mid-semester break and the other due just before final exams) and a final exam. As a result, the first half of the semester may feel like a very light workload, while the second half may be a frantic rush of completing numerous essays for different courses in addition to studying for final exams. One way to overcome this “feast or famine” approach is to plan your schedule for the semester and begin working on assignment and essays well before their due dates. Final exams in New Zealand are usually spread over a two- to three-week period and are comprehensive, meaning that knowledge of material from the entire semester is expected. It is not unusual to encounter final exams worth 50 percent or more of your final grade.

Exams in New Zealand are very formal. Students take their exams in a lecture hall, not in their regular classroom. Lecturers may be present at the start of the exam but will leave once the exam is underway. Students are prohibited from bringing any course materials, notes or texts into the exam room. Exams are monitored and students caught with course materials will face disciplinary action. Even a visit to the bathroom will be supervised. You may not reschedule any exams, request alternate assessments or arrange to have your exams proctored in the United States. Study Habits in New Zealand Part of the cultural difference between the United States and New Zealand is in the study habits of Kiwis. While New Zealand students may appear to work very little, they work hard outside of class. During the university breaks, students generally take all their work home and complete drafts of essays that might not be due until the end of the semester. Libraries close earlier than in the United States, so New Zealand students tend to do the majority of their studying during the day in the library or in their rooms/flats at night once the library has closed. U.S. students, used to late night hours in libraries, are often unaccustomed to working during the day, but need to structure their time according to this new system.

Taking New Zealandrelated classes like Maorii World M W ld gave me such a deeper understanding and appreciation for where I was. Brook Thompson, Portland State University University of Auckland

Classes in New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Summer Programs Most summer programs in New Zealand are geared toward U.S. and other international students and have a structure that is more similar to U.S. colleges and universities. Nevertheless, it is important to understand the general academic structure of universities in New Zealand, as the professors and instructors will have New Zealand-style expectations of students.

Academic Ethics and Culture Just as systems of higher education vary greatly by country, so do concepts of academic ethics. As a visiting student, it is important for you to be proactive by searching your host universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website and/or student handbook for its policies regarding academic ethics and classroom behavior. IFSA-Butler staff and your host institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international office are also great resources for guidance on this topic. Remember to ask what challenges previous U.S. students have faced at your host university. If you are accused of academic dishonesty, inquire immediately about the appeals process available at both your host and home institutions, paying special attention to deadlines. Also note that your home college will be notified if you are accused of academic dishonesty.

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Status You are classified as a “full fee-paying, nondegree or visiting student” at your host university and are entitled to enroll in any undergraduate course for which you are qualified and in which space is available. You are subject to the standard regulations of the university and have the same rights, privileges and obligations as regular degree students. You must abide by all the rules and regulations of your host institution.

Course Registration You will most likely finalize enrollment for your course choices before arrival at your New Zealand university. Please have additional courses approved in case your first selections are not available. During the enrollment period it is your responsibility to ensure that: • You are enrolled in a full course load as determined by IFSA-Butler. See page 17 for details. • You meet any prerequisites required for any courses in which you enroll. • You are aware of any issues that may affect grade or credit transfer to your home university. Notifying IFSA-Butler of Your Enrollment • Once you finalize registration at your host university, complete the online IFSA-Butler course registration form indicating your individual course schedule (more information is given at orientation). • An IFSA-Butler staff member will verify your fulltime enrollment. We use this form to verify your host university grade report before completing your Butler University transcript. Submitting your course registration form is mandatory. • If you make any changes after submitting your information, you must immediately inform the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office. Any change in your registration could affect your credit transfer. • U.S. law requires students who are receiving federal or state financial aid funds to earn at least 12 U.S. semester credit hours for a term or semester or 24 U.S. semester credit hours for the year. Failure to comply with these guidelines can affect your future financial aid awards and eligibility. Falling below the course load minimum may also revoke your student status in New Zealand and lead to deportation.

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Tips for academic success in New Zealand • You’ll have fewer contact hours with your professors than at your home institution and will be expected to work more independently. • Many of your classes will be held in large lecture halls seating more than 100 students. These lectures will be complemented by seminars/ tutorials, small discussion groups held at another time during the week. You are required to attend both and to actively participate. • Most lecturers will distribute optional reading lists from which students are expected to select supplementary reading. You are unlikely to pass without reading extensively from these lists. • Students and lecturers in New Zealand put less emphasis on presentation and more on the content of written and oral work. Always back up statements with documented sources. Create a logical argument and stick to it. • Assessment occurs less frequently in New Zealand universities, so it’s important to stay on top of the workload. • New Zealand universities are less flexible with regulations and deadlines. You should know the rules, and don’t assume you can break them without penalty. • Grade inflation occurs less frequently in New Zealand than in the United States. Consult the IFSAButler Student Handbook you will receive during orientation for U.S. grade and credit conversions. • Adapt to the work schedule of local students. Go to the library and study during the day so that you can socialize at night. • Introduce yourself to your instructors. Let them know you are a U.S. study abroad student and find out their expectations for the class.

Registering for Required Courses If you are required to take certain courses abroad in order to graduate on time, follow this procedure: • Put the request in writing to our U.S. office before departure. Your program advisor will request the course on your behalf. • Depending on your host university, you may or may not receive confirmation that the course is available. • Before leaving the United States, check the host university website to verify current course offerings. • When you get to registration at your host university, request the course again and explain why you need it. • Remember that there are course cancellations at the last minute, just as in the United States, so be prepared to make a substitution if necessary.

IFSA-Butler Full Course Load As an IFSA-Butler participant, you are required to undertake a full course load at your host university and to follow its regulations for degree-seeking students, including taking exams where applicable. By law, you must maintain the recommended course load to ensure your continual registration as a fulltime student. Taking less than a full course load may violate the terms of your visiting student status in New Zealand and jeopardize your U.S. financial aid. The Student Handbook that you receive during your orientation abroad outlines the number of U.S. credit hours you must take at your host institution to equal a full course load as determined by IFSA-Butler. A full IFSA-Butler course load for most programs is the equivalent of: • 15 to 16 U.S. semester credit hours per semester. • 30 to 32 U.S. semester credit hours for the year. • Summer full-load standards vary according to program length and host university requirements. See our website for individual summer program credits. When you register for courses abroad, you will need to tally the credits, points or units (not number of courses) to achieve the required full course load as determined by IFSA-Butler. Our New Zealand office can help you verify that your enrollment constitutes a full course load.

Course Overload IFSA-Butler does not recommend registering for more than the full course load. If you sign up for more than the equivalent of 18 U.S. semester credit hours, please obtain written approval from your home university study abroad advisor and forward this approval to IFSA-Butler. Taking more than the equivalent of 16 U.S. semester credit hours in a semester can result in a tuition surcharge by your New Zealand university. When this occurs, a bill is sent to your designated billing address. Your home institution may also charge a fee to process additional credit hours.

Home Institution Regulations Some U.S. institutions may impose on their study abroad students the same academic regulations applicable on their home campus. In some cases these regulations may conflict with IFSA-Butler policy. For example, if your home institution requires that all students abroad enroll in four classes, you may be taking too many or too few credits according to IFSA-Butler standards. Consult your IFSA-Butler program advisor if this applies to you.

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Types of Courses Not Allowed IFSA-Butler does not allow students to take the following types of courses in New Zealand: • • • •

Graduate courses (400-level or above) Courses for audit Online/distance learning courses Courses for pass/fail instead of a grade unless that is the only way the course is assessed

Only courses taken for a grade and credit will count toward your full-load requirement.

Course Credits Be aware that a course’s time commitment does not always correspond to the course’s credit allocation. Science and engineering students in particular should be prepared to spend considerably more time in class and labs than students who take only liberal arts courses. Our science alumni have reported that their workload was more than double that of arts students for the same amount of credit.

I took courses that pertained to Auckland and New Zealand specifically. I was intent on not choosing classes I could take anywhere. These classes gave me a clearer understanding of the city of Auckland politically, socially and economically. –Sasha Stahl, Wesleyan University University of Auckland

Academic Contract During orientation, you will sign a contract in which you acknowledge your enrollment responsibilities to your host university and to IFSA-Butler.

Course Withdraw Dates Withdrawing from courses in New Zealand can be complicated and subject to many rules. Please note the following: • Be sure to confirm the final withdraw date with your New Zealand university. • If you wish to withdraw from a class, you must do so formally with the university by the published date, and then notify the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office in writing that you have withdrawn. • If you drop a course after the published withdraw deadline, that course may register as an F on your transcript. • You should obtain written confirmation from the New Zealand university that you have withdrawn from the course. Otherwise the course may appear as an F on your Butler University transcript. • Your host university may charge a late-drop fee.

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This fee can be quite high. It is your responsibility to learn the deadline and adhere to it. • Be sure that by dropping a course you do not fall below the IFSA-Butler full course load.

Class Attendance Students studying on an IFSA-Butler program are required to attend all regularly scheduled classes. Failure to attend classes can result in loss of credit and jeopardize your visiting student status.

Completion of Coursework You must complete all your academic obligations before the end of the program. If you turn an essay in late, it may get lost and you will lose credit. If you turn in an assignment to anyone other than your professor, be sure to get written confirmation of receipt.

Incomplete Grades

Transcripts

If you have an incomplete, you must complete the class requirements by May 31 (for semester 2/calendar year) or December 31 (for summer, semester 1 and academic year students) or by the host university deadline, whichever comes first. Incompletes that are not rectified will result in a fail or an X, and a new Butler University transcript will be issued to you and your home university.

Conversion of Host University Grades and Credits We translate your grades and credits according to the scales printed in the Student Handbook that is distributed during orientation. Translations do not augment or reduce the grades; they are equivalent to the host university grades and credits.

Enrolling for One Semester of a Full-Year Course Students may not enroll in the second semester of a yearlong course.

Special Exam Arrangements

Once your course results are translated and processed, the Butler University registrar will send one official transcript to your home college or university and one to your home address. A transcript will not be issued if you have an outstanding IFSA-Butler account balance or any fees, fines or damage costs owed to the host university.

You may not reschedule an exam, request alternate assessments or arrange to have your exams proctored in the United States. If you do, IFSA-Butler will not conduct an academic record appeal or follow-up on the class in which you arranged an alternate exam or assessment.

The transcript issued by your host institution is considered a legal document, and neither IFSA-Butler nor Butler University can alter any part of it. We can make a change in class title, grade or credit only if we receive a revised official transcript from the host university.

You will be able to review a New Zealand program calendar before leaving the United States. Please be sure that you do not have scheduling conflicts with the examination periods before enrolling.

Online Grades Some universities may make your grades available to you online. Grades provided online are not official, and the posting of grades online does not guarantee that your transcript has been prepared by your host institution.

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Transcript Schedule Due to differences between the New Zealand and U.S. academic systems, your transcript will probably not be available for as long as four months after the end of your study abroad program. Most U.S. universities are used to this delay and will accept a phone call or letter from our office as explanation. Study Abroad Term Semester 1 (spring) or academic year Semester 2 (fall) or calendar year

Transcript Sent August–September January–February

IFSA-Butler Letters of Explanation You may find yourself in jeopardy of losing academic scholarships and/or financial aid because your grades are not released in a timely manner by your host institution. To help you avoid penalties resulting from delayed transcripts, we are happy to provide letters of explanation. Please contact the IFSA-Butler Academic Affairs department if you need assistance. Avoiding Transcript Delays To help expedite your transcript you can do the following things: • Make sure you submit an accurate course registration form online. • Speak to your host university professors about any special deadlines you have for receiving grades. • Turn your work in on time. The professor can’t issue your grade without all your work. • Make sure all IFSA-Butler fees are paid, library books are returned and fines paid, no damages exist in your housing and no other debt exists in your name when you return to the United States. Rush Transcripts If you need a rush transcript, notify the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office and submit the rush transcript form located on our New Zealand office website before the end of the program. We make every effort to expedite the transcript but cannot guarantee that your host university will rush grades to us.

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Additional Transcripts IFSA-Butler alumni may order additional transcripts after receiving their initial two transcripts from Butler University. You can make a request via the National Student Clearinghouse. You may need your Butler University student identification number in order to request your transcript if you do not have a U.S. social security number. This number can be found on your Butler University transcript and in the IFSA-Butler student portal (login and password required). If you are unable to access your Butler University ID via these options, please phone IFSA-Butler’s Academic Affairs department and you will be asked a series of security questions in order to share your identification number. If you have any other questions about the transcript request process, please contact an academic records coordinator at 800-858-0229. Additional transcript fees and processing times: • Each additional transcript costs $9. • The National Student Clearinghouse processing fee is $2.25 per recipient. • All transcript requests are processed within five working days of receipt.

Academic Record Appeal Be sure to check your grades online before you depart New Zealand at the end of your time abroad. Most New Zealand universities have a very short period in which you can speak to your professor, tutor, department head or other university official about your grades. It is common practice for university grade appeal deadlines to be four weeks after the mailing/posting of exam/final grades.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) FERPA affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. Students who have reached the age of 18 or have entered into a postsecondary learning institution have the right to: • Inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day the institution receives a request for access; • Have some control over the disclosure of information from their education records; • Seek to amend education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA; • File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with requirements of FERPA. IFSA-Butler adheres to these fundamental rights of students who participate on IFSA-Butler programs. Privacy Disclosure As outlined in FERPA, IFSA-Butler has the right to release, for reasons deemed legitimate, directory information about any IFSA-Butler student unless that student has requested in writing that their directory information be withheld from release. The request must also contain the student’s signature.

If you disagree with a grade, course or credits on your Butler University transcript, you can initiate an academic record appeal through IFSA-Butler. More details about the appeal process, appeal criteria and deadlines will be included in the Student Handbook and are also available on our website. Note that we will not address an appeal for any class in which you have taken an alternate assessment, taken an early exam, arranged to submit an essay outside the required due dates or have been found guilty of academic dishonesty.

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FINANCES

Withdrawing from the Program IFSA-Butler may allow a student to leave the program early only in cases of severe medical or personal problems, and only for circumstances approved by your New Zealand university. Otherwise, IFSA-Butler does not report grades as incomplete. An incomplete or “absent” grade will be reported on your Butler University transcript as a fail. Results from all courses will be reported to your home institution.

Payments and Financial Aid IFSA-Butler Finance Office Our finance office processes all payments and invoices and is available to answer questions about payments, scholarships, consortium agreements and more. You can reach our finance office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET daily by calling 800-858-0229.

Program Fees We publish our fees for each upcoming semester, summer or year three to six months before departure, and we set our program fees in U.S. dollars to protect our students and their parents from currency fluctuations. Our fees are set and do not change because of changes in the exchange rates. In order to balance out the exchange rate fluctuations and to stabilize our fees we use forward contracts, which can result in an average exchange rate that may vary significantly from the daily rates quoted by the banks.

What’s included in our program fee

Expenses not included in the program fee

Your IFSA-Butler program fee includes the following:

Expenses not covered by the IFSA-Butler program fee include:

• Tuition • Housing • Meals for some programs (see our website for details) • Linen pack issued by the university housing providers • Pre-arrival preparations • Visa guidance • Full-time resident staff in New Zealand • Orientation abroad (including accommodation and meals) • Activities and events • Co-curricular activities and day trips (semester/ year programs) • Basic student union/university activity fees • Personal and academic support services • 24/7 emergency assistance abroad • Medical insurance and assistance plan • Two official transcripts issued by Butler University 22

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• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Meals (unless noted on our website) Commuting expenses Vacation expenses International airfare U.S. domestic travel Passport or visa Domestic New Zealand flight from orientation to host city (if needed) Return transportation to the airport at the end of the program Personal property and travel insurance Tuition differentials Course overload surcharges Personal items, textbooks and supplies Costs related to independent housing

Tuition and Housing Invoices from IFSA-Butler IFSA-Butler sends invoices to each student’s designated billing address four to six weeks before the payment deadline. Students who apply and/or are accepted late may receive their invoices later. Invoices generally cover tuition and housing, but your invoice may vary if we have a direct billing arrangement with your home college or university (see Direct Billing Arrangements below). Payment deadlines are listed on page 25. Direct Billing Arrangements IFSA-Butler has direct billing arrangements with many U.S. colleges and universities. Direct billing institutions agree to pay all or part of the IFSA-Butler invoice on behalf of their students, and students in turn pay the direct billing institution instead of IFSA-Butler. If the home college or university pays for tuition or housing only, IFSA-Butler will send the unpaid portion of the invoice to the student’s billing address. Our Money Matters booklet includes more details about direct billing arrangements. Our Student Portal will indicate whether or not your home college has a direct billing agreement with IFSA-Butler.

Other Invoices from IFSA-Butler IFSA-Butler sometimes sends additional invoices based on a student’s housing, enrollment or credit load. We mail these additional invoices to designated billing addresses toward the end of the semester.

Supplemental Housing Fees The housing portion of our program fee is based on the cost of basic accommodation, usually a shared room in a dormitory, apartment or student house. Some housing assignments abroad incur supplemental charges that we pass on to our students. These charges are usually for mandatory meal plans but may also include fees for “full service” facilities, activity fees, gown rental or activities associated with life in the housing. Most supplemental housing bills will be sent to your billing address near the end of your time abroad. However, small out-of-pocket costs such key deposits may be payable directly to your host university or housing office. Housing supplementals vary from university to university; the fees on our website (www.ifsa-butler.org) list each university’s housing supplementals. Tuition Supplemental Fees All IFSA-Butler fees are based on an arts and humanities fee structure. Some universities in New Zealand set higher tuition for study in certain subjects (e.g., science, engineering, psychology, music, computer science and archaeology). Tuition supplementals vary from university to university; the fees on our website (www.ifsa-butler.org) outline which fees, if any, your host university will have and for which subjects.

Meal Plans Some residence halls abroad have mandatory meal plans. If you are assigned a room in a hall of residence ce with a meal plan, we will send a bill to your designat-ed billing address near the end of your time abroad. No refund is available for unused portions of meal plans. The fees on our website (www.ifsa-butler.org) list meal plan costs where relevant.

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These fees reflect the costs of equipment the university has to provide for certain majors, rather than the costs of studying a course in that department. Therefore, if you are admitted to a department that imposes a higher tuition fee, the university may charge you a tuition supplemental even if you do not take any courses in that department. We send supplemental tuition bills after enrollment abroad is confirmed. Be sure to investigate and discuss your program’s supplemental fees with your parents and home university’s study abroad office. Overload Fee Some host universities charge a fee for overloads (taking more than 16 U.S. semester credit hours). Our New Zealand staff discuss overloads during orientation to help students fully understand their course load requirements and avoid unwanted bills. Withdraw Fees Some universities in New Zealand have instituted very strict withdraw policies, particularly for summer programs. The policies vary between universities but generally require students to pay a large penalty for withdrawing from the program after a specified date. Although IFSA-Butler students pay their fees to us instead of to the universities abroad, IFSA-Butler is contractually responsible for any fees incurred on behalf of our students. Therefore, we are obligated to follow these universities’ refund policies and to pass penalties along to our students. These withdraw policies are clearly outlined on our website, on housing forms (in cases where penalties are tied to housing fees) and are also detailed in prearrival emails from our program advisors.

Monthly Payment Plan Tuition Payment Plan IFSA-Butler allows semester and year students to make monthly payments on the program fee through Tuition Payment Plan. This plan can be used to pay any portion of the IFSA-Butler program fee except for the $500 program deposit. Please contact our finance office at 800-858-0229 for more information on how to apply. Tuition Payment Plan is not available for summer programs.

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Cook for yourself! You can save a lot of money b by buying in bulk, cooking b a large meal for dinner, then having the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. Cooking for yourself is a lot cheaper than buying your meals and a lot more fun. –Alexander Cates, Hamilton College University of Otago

Using Tuition Payment Plan for Supplemental Costs You may also use Tuition Payment Plan to cover the cost of meal plans, supplemental housing fees and tuition supplementals. However, because these additional invoices are not sent until after your arrival and enrollment abroad, you will need to estimate the amount of the supplemental costs for your program and build that amount into your Tuition Payment Plan monthly payment. You will receive a refund if you overestimate the cost of supplementals. More Information About Tuition Payment Plan The IFSA-Butler finance office is happy to answer questions about Tuition Payment Plan. Our finance staff can be reached at 800-858-0229.

Payment Instructions Payment Due Dates and Financial Deadlines Program deposit Semester 1 program fee Semester 2 program fee Summer program fee

10 days after acceptance (nonrefundable) December 15 May 15 May 15

Please note that IFSA-Butler charges a $45 fee for late payments. How to Make Payments IFSA-Butler accepts payment by check or credit card. When making a payment, please follow these guidelines: • Make checks payable to the Institute for Study Abroad. Checks should indicate on the memo section the student’s full name and the name of the program abroad (e.g., University of Otago). • Send checks to: Institute for Study Abroad 6201 Corporate Drive, Suite 200 Indianapolis, IN 46278 • You may pay by credit card (Visa or MasterCard) or by e-check via the “My Account” tab in your Student Portal. Processing fees for credit card payments are applicable. Delinquent Payments If we do not receive financial aid documentation or your full payment by the payment deadline listed above, you will be withdrawn from our program. You will not be refunded your $500 program deposit or the cost of your airline ticket. Refund and Withdrawal Policies Students who withdraw after confirming their intent to enroll but prior to the payment due date will be charged $500 plus any non-refundable deposits or fees paid on their behalf by IFSA-Butler. Students who withdraw after the payment due date but prior to the scheduled overseas arrival date for their program will be charged $1,500 plus any non-refundable deposits or fees paid on their behalf by IFSA-Butler. Students who withdraw on or after their scheduled overseas arrival date for their program will be charged $2,000 plus any non-refundable deposits or fees paid on their behalf by IFSA-Butler. Refunds are approved only after all relevant accounts are cleared. Upon approval, a refund will be issued within 20 working days. In the event that a student’s charges exceed the amount paid, the student will be invoiced for the difference.

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If you are participating in a full-year program and notify us in writing at least one month before the end of the first term that you will not be returning for the second term, you will be charged the published fee for the completed term. If you are participating in a full-year program and notify us in writing during the month before the end of the first term that you will not be returning for the second term, you will be charged the published fee for the completed term plus $500.

Managing Your Money Abroad

There is no credit or refund for a student who is suspended or expelled from the program for any reason.

Currency and Exchange Rates

Financial Aid Payments IFSA-Butler accepts transfers of financial aid for payment of our program fees. Make an appointment with your home campus financial aid officer and request a contractual/consortium agreement. A contractual/consortium agreement is your only guarantee that your financial aid will be transferred to your study abroad program. For more information, consult Money Matters (available on our website). If you plan to apply financial aid toward the payment of your program fee, send us a copy of your contractual/consortium agreement (from your financial aid officer) and a copy of your financial aid award letter and/or loan guarantees indicating the amount of financial aid award and its disbursal date. Butler University does not process financial aid for IFSA-Butler students unless they are pursuing an undergraduate degree from Butler University. Please do not send any correspondence to Butler University’s Office of Financial Aid.

Scholarships IFSA-Butler Scholarships IFSA-Butler believes that study abroad should be within the reach of every student, so we offer a wide range of scholarships for use on our programs. Some of these scholarships are for study in New Zealand or for specific programs in New Zealand, while others may be used for study in any of our programs abroad. Please visit our website for scholarship details and application deadlines. Other Scholarships Many companies and organizations offer scholarships for international study. A list of these opportunities can be found on our website. 26

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We suggest relying on a combination of cash, credit cards, a U.S. debit card and possibly a New Zealand bank account while you are abroad. We’ll give you additional advice on money management during the orientation; in the meantime, here are a few guidelines. The best way to save money while studying abroad is to copy the financial lifestyle of local students.

Currency in New Zealand is the dollar. As with U.S. currency, there are 100 cents to the New Zealand dollar. You can change money when you arrive at the New Zealand airport or at many New Zealand banks during regular business hours. The latest exchange rate is available at any bank, in most major newspapers and on the web at www.oanda.com.

Personal Checks Personal checks written in U.S. dollars can take months to clear. You should not bring, and your parents should not send, checks written in U.S. dollars.

Banking Semester Students Some students prefer to open a bank account in New Zealand. Most New Zealand universities have bank branches on or near campus where the bank manager is likely to be familiar with the needs of American students. To open the account, you will need to present your passport, student identification and proof of your residence in New Zealand. Discuss any special financial requirements with your parents and your banker. The largest banks in New Zealand are the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ), the Australia New Zealand Bank (ANZ), Kiwi Bank, Westpac Bank and the National Bank. You should consider one of these banks because you’ll find their branches while traveling almost anywhere in the country. Most New Zealand bank accounts have a PINactivated debit card that you can use at merchants and ATMs all over the country. The card makes direct debits from your account and you can use it to get cash from merchants. The electronic money system (called EFTPOS—Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) is available at all New Zealand retail outlets and tourist operations, big and small; some students have

EFTPOSed their way all over the country. Record expenses as they arise to ensure that you have sufficient funds in your account. ATMs can be difficult to locate in more remote areas of New Zealand. Also, banks aren’t open on the weekends (except in large cities) or public holidays, so when you travel, plan ahead or use EFTPOS, especially since credit cards are not universally accepted. Remember to avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you. Theft happens! Summer Students Summer students will not be in New Zealand long enough to open a bank account and should instead plan to use ATMs to access their U.S. bank account.

U.S. Bank Account ATM/Debit Cards You will probably be able to use your U.S. debit card at ATMs throughout New Zealand. Cirrus and Plus systems are the most common networks, so be sure that your debit card lists one of these networks. Note that most ATMs abroad accept only 4-digit PINs. Contact your U.S. bank to be sure you can use your card in New Zealand and in other countries where you plan to travel. Some U.S. banks block usage of debit cards in certain countries because of concerns about fraud. You should also let your bank know when and where you’ll be in New Zealand so that your international purchases are not flagged as fraudulent. The main advantage of keeping a U.S. bank account is that it allows your parents to deposit money into your account at home, and you’ll be able to access this money this way easily and immediately. The main disadvantage to using a U.S. debit card is the fees. Your U.S. bank, as well as the New Zealand bank that owns the ATM you use, may charge a fee for each transaction. Don’t rely entirely on a U.S. debit card. If your card is lost or stolen, you won’t have access to emergency funds. Keep an emergency reserve of money just in case. Be sure to record your bank’s customer service telephone number and your account number in case you need to report a lost or stolen card.

Credit Cards Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards in New Zealand. Any credit card you use abroad must have your name on it as given on your passport.

To T save money, take advantage of the a free opportunities in the city of your choice. However, don’t let your fear of spending money cause you to not explore your country. Some of my best memories were made on splurging on a spur-ofthe-moment road trip through the countryside. As long as you track your spending and hold yourself to a reasonable budget, you can have a great time without worrying too much. –Kelly Seeber, Trinity University University of Otago

If you plan to use a parent’s credit card, your parent should request an extra card in your name. We also recommend calling your credit card company before departure to explain that you’ll be studying abroad in New Zealand. This will decrease the likelihood of your international purchases being flagged as fraudulent. Keep a secure list of your credit card numbers and the cards’ customer service numbers in case your cards are lost or stolen.

Wire Transfers If you need money in a hurry, you can have it sent to you via American Express or Western Union. You don’t need an American Express card to wire money. Even though wiring money involves a large fee, it is relatively safe, and usually you can receive the money within one day. You will need your passport to collect the money. Some banks may also accept wire transfers. M O R E C U LT U R E . L E S S S H O C K .

Student Expenses Abroad We’ve designed this section to give you and your family an idea of what it costs to live as a student abroad. More specific information is available in the budget planner worksheet included in your welcome packet. In addition, each program page on our website includes Personal Cost Estimates for that program and city. You probably will spend a lot of money in your first weeks in New Zealand. Don’t panic if you find your funds rapidly disappearing. Initially, you will spend more money getting settled, exploring and socializing. As you establish a routine and start to live like a Kiwi student, you’ll probably spend less. See our money saving tips on the next page.

Orientation The IFSA-Butler orientation normally runs for four days and is mandatory. Transportation, meals and lodging during orientation are covered by your program fee. However, past students have recommended bringing a small amount of New Zealand currency for souvenirs and snacks.

Emergency Reserve You should always have some money set aside for emergencies, whether it is your credit card or a cash reserve.

Textbooks and Supplies Textbooks can be even more expensive than in the U.S., so many study abroad students rely on the library and make photocopies of required readings. Be sure to budget enough money to purchase books and/or cover the cost of copying.

Dining Out The cost of dining out can vary greatly; the best approach is to follow the habits of New Zealand students. An evening meal in Auckland, for example, can easily cost US$30. On the other hand, you can dine on takeout food for US$5–10 or have a large, reasonably priced Asian or Middle Eastern meal for as little as US$12. Overspending is easy and buying lots of drinks can quickly destroy your budget.

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Campus Clubs and Activities You may be required to pay a fee to join some clubs or participate in student activities on campus.

GST New Zealand imposes a Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most purchases and services. The current GST in New Zealand is 15 percent. All displayed price tags already include the GST, this is not added at checkout.

Groceries Being an island, groceries can cost far more in New Zealand than at a supermarket in the United States, so make sure your food budget is adequate. Because you may be cooking for yourself, take some time to learn a few easy recipes before you leave, or bring a small cookbook from home. Make sure your cookbook has temperature and metric equivalents, or bring a set of measuring cups and spoons from home.

Gym Memberships All universities have a gym on or near campus. Some universities include the membership in their student services fee while others can charge around NZ$100 per month.

Personal Expenses Be sure to budget for the following miscellaneous expenses in New Zealand: • Small appliances such as hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, etc. • New Zealand SIM card and/or cell phone (see page 42 for more information) • Haircuts • Laundry • Course supplies • Photocopying • Emergency cash reserve See your online budget planner for more information about personal expenses.

Public Transportation Walking and taking the bus are great ways to get around your host city. The bus system is fairly extensive, both locally and regionally, and most New Zealand bus systems offer student discounts. At night, we recommend that you use a taxi or take a shuttle.

Taxis Many students in New Zealand’s larger cities use taxis when going out with friends. Taxis are pricey for just one or two people but can end up being cheaper than public transportation for a group of friends. Taxis in many areas charge on a meter-based system, but in some cities the price is fixed within certain areas. Our New Zealand staff will advise you during orientation about ways to save on commuting costs.

Bicycles Some New Zealand cities have excellent provisions for cyclists, so you may want to consider renting or buying a bicycle while abroad. Bike helmets are mandatory in New Zealand.

Phones Review the section on telephones and mail on pages 42–43 for specifics on telephones. This guide will help you budget for or cell phones in New Zealand.

Money-saving tips for New Zealand TIP #1: Consult Good Travel Resources Every savvy traveler should do extensive online research or purchase a good travel guidebook. We recommend Lonely Planet, Rick Steves and Rough Guides, all of which are geared for travelers on a budget and have all kinds of helpful tips about bargains, local sights, free events and attractions, and more. You can purchase these online or at any major bookstore in the travel section, or search information online. TIP #2: Always Ask for a Student Discount Always ask for a student discount. Don’t be shy — it can help save you a lot of money. Many stores have student discount cards, and your host university may have other discount passes you can pick up as well. Visit the student union to look for flyers advertising “Student Night” at local clubs, bars and restaurants. TIP #3: Talk to New Zealand Students The New Zealand students around you will undoubtedly be on a budget as well. Ask where they got their pots, pans, bedding, clothes, food, etc. and learn to shop like they do! TIP #4: Take Advantage of Coupons There are always going to be coupons in the local newspaper or online, and there are often people giving out flyers on the streets of shopping districts. If you haven’t used coupons before, learn to love them (even if you might feel a bit like your grandma!). TIP #5: Be a Savvy Grocery Shopper Many cities in New Zealand have local street markets where local farmers/venders come to sell their wares. You can find great deals on fresh, locally grown produce and food at these markets. You also can meet interesting people while doing this—grocery shopping can become a fun cultural experience! TIP #6: Watch Your Pub Visits! Just like here in the U.S., alcohol is expensive in New Zealand—only more so! Keep an eye on your pub budget.

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I chose New Zealand for its natural beauty and high indigenous population. My favorite memory is being on top of Mount Doom [Mount Ngauruhoe] and looking out over the country. –Brook Thompson, Portland State University University of Auckland

Tipping New Zealand does not have the same tipping culture as the U.S. and it is not customary to tip in restaurants, bars or pubs. In taxis, it is polite to round up the fare to the nearest dollar.

Entertainment Past students report spending $20–50 weekly on movies, coffee, going to clubs and bars, and other entertainment. For some students, the cost of alcohol should be considered—alcohol tends to be more costly in New Zealand.

Vacations Budget extra money for more costly vacation activities, including meals. Consult the travel publications in our bibliography on page 57 for budget ideas or talk to our staff in New Zealand. For travel accommodation, get a good guidebook and use it as a planner for vacation lodging.

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Lodging Hostels and backpackers are a popular accommodation choice in New Zealand and can be found all over the country, including out-of-the-way places. Use of spa pools and sports equipment, free meals and other benefits will often be included in the cost. The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) also publishes its own vacation guide. You can join the YHA before you leave the United States or after you arrive in New Zealand. The YHA card offers discounts while traveling. For more information, visit www.yha.com.

Overall Budgeting Because of the different spending habits and resources of each of our students, we can’t estimate any one person’s budget needs. For an individual and accurate estimate, please complete the budget planner online.

G E T T I N G R E A D Y T O L E AV E

Official Travel Documents You will need the following documents for travel and immigration purposes: • Passport • New Zealand student visa

Passport You must have a passport that is valid for at least six months past the time you plan to be abroad. If you don’t have a passport, apply for one immediately. Normal processing takes six weeks and may take longer during peak travel times. Passport fees and requirements change frequently. For complete information about applying for a passport, go to the State Department’s website at www.travel.state.gov and click on “Passports.” You must present the following documentation to obtain a U.S. passport: • Proof of U.S. citizenship—either a certified copy of a birth certificate, a previously issued passport, a naturalization certificate, a certificate of citizenship or a consular report of birth for a U.S. citizen born abroad • Two recent, identical passport photos (2” x 2”) • The completed passport application and fee

New Zealand Student Visa Visas are endorsements supplied by governments (including the United States) to grant permission to study, visit or live abroad. As an international student, you must obtain a visa from the Immigration New Zealand. IFSA-Butler provides a visa application guide, but obtaining the visa (essential for your study in New Zealand) is your responsibility. It is important that you enter New Zealand with a student visa, not just a tourist visa. Not only is it illegal for you to go with a tourist visa, but you may find it difficult and expensive to change your status from tourist to student once in New Zealand. If you plan to travel to countries other than New Zealand, be sure to investigate whether you will need a tourist visa. Once your visa is issued, please review it carefully to ensure the accuracy of all information. Some countries may require you to apply for a tourist visa before arriving at the border, so check the requirements for travel before departure.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, make sure both your permanent resident card (if applicable) and passport are current and valid. You might need to check with the local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office near your university or home (check online at www.uscis.gov).

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Visas for Non-U.S. Citizens If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact your home country’s embassy or consulate to determine if you will need a visa for your time abroad. Most visa applications for New Zealand can be completed online, but students who are required to complete paper applications must do so through their own country’s embassy.

Copies of Your Travel Documents Keep track of all your travel documents. Make two copies of your passport and New Zealand visa confirmation; leave one copy with your family and pack the other in your luggage separately from your passport. If you lose your passport, having a copy to take to your Embassy or Consulate speeds the replacement process.

One unforgettable moment was when my friends f d and I took an overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. At one point in the journey, the boat pulled into a quiet cove surrounded by mountains. The crew turned off the engine and told us that we were going to have a few minutes of complete silence. They asked everyone to not talk, not take pictures, and to put away all technology and simply take in the beauty around us. Those few minutes were some of the most remarkable minutes of my entire study abroad experience. As breathtaking scenery and the sounds of birds and distant waterfalls filled my senses, I realized how beautiful this country I chose was, and how blessed I was to be there. –Kit Allgaier, Bucknell University Victoria University of Wellington

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Booking Your Flight to New Zealand Do not purchase a ticket until you have been accepted to a host university! When scheduling a return flight, be sure to choose a flight that arrives in time for the IFSA-Butler orientation and leaves no sooner than the program end date, after you have completed all your academic responsibilities, including exams. Visit your program’s page on the IFSA-Butler website for program dates. IFSA-Butler partners with STA Travel to offer travel booking assistance for our students. There are several advantages to booking your flight reservations through STA: • • • • •

Work with an experienced travel agent Lock in the price of your international ticket with a deposit and pay the rest later Reduce or eliminate change fees with the option of a Multiflex Pass for flexible travel dates Compare airfare prices between airlines so you book a ticket that works for your budget and travel time International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is included

Any program student who arrives on their program date within the published arrival window will be provided with ground transportation from the airport to IFSA-Butler orientation. If you arrive outside of the published timeframe, you are responsible for your own transportation from the airport to the orientation location. The address and directions to the orientation location are included in the Travel Essentials newsletter, which is emailed to students prior to their U.S. departure. re.

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Insurance and Health Care IFSA-Butler Insurance CISI The IFSA-Butler program fee includes a medical insurance and assistance plan through Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI). CISI specializes in providing medical insurance for U.S. students who will receive treatment when outside the United States. The CISI IFSA-Butler plan covers the following: • • • • • • • • • • •

Eligible medical expenses covered at 100 percent to $350,000 with no deductible Emergency medical evacuation to $250,000 Emergency reunion of family members Mental health coverage up to $10,000 for outpatient (includes most pre-existing conditions) Medical and travel assistance services Worldwide hospital and physician referral Emergency prescription replacement/shipment 24-hour emergency travel arrangements Emergency translation service Lost document and credit card assistance Worldwide legal referral

TThe orientation with IFSA-Butler helped me get over jet lag. I also made some of my best friends through this program, and the weekly meetings we had helped give us a sense of community. –Kelly Seeber, Trinity University University of Otago

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Pre-existing Conditions and Substance Abuse Coverage Partial coverage of pre-existing conditions, and alcohol and drug abuse treatment coverage are also part of the plan benefits. There are exclusions to coverage that are outlined on the “Student Insurance” page of our website, located in the “For Students” section. Dates of Coverage Coverage begins on the program departure date and ends one day after the program end date. Your insurance is applicable anywhere outside the United States, not just the location in which you are studying abroad. Insurance Card CISI will send you a printable insurance card via email before departure. You’ll need to create a personal account on the CISI website after your acceptance into a program, or use CISI’s useful registration app.

Extended Coverage You can choose to extend your CISI coverage up to 30 days before or after your travel to New Zealand. Contact CISI at least one week before departure for more information about purchasing this coverage. Studentsafe University In New Zealand, you also have an insurance policy called Studentsafe University. This insurance allows you to visit the student health centre on campus if you get ill without having to pay upfront. This policy also includes travel and personal property insurance but does not cover pre-existing conditions. IFSA-Butler New Zealand staff will give you more information about insurance during orientation.

Additional Insurance We strongly recommend that you review the program medical insurance and assistance plan to determine whether you need additional insurance. In particular, students with pre-existing conditions should investigate their options carefully, as pre-existing conditions are covered only up to $10,000 and some exclusions apply. Please remember that IFSA-Butler does not provide travel or personal property insurance. If you want to insure your belongings while you are abroad, contact a travel insurance provider, or check to see if your belongings are covered under your parents’ homeowners policy.

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Additional Insurance Sources To obtain travel, property or additional medical coverage for a pre-existing condition, we recommend contacting an insurance company that specializes in coverage for U.S. students abroad. Cultural Insurance Services International, which provides the insurance plan for IFSA-Butler students, can provide a range of additional insurance services.

Health H l hC Care Below are some pre-arrival health care recommendations, as well as some hints for communicating your medical needs to IFSA-Butler before the start of the program: • Have your family physician prepare a summary of ongoing treatment. • Bring an adequate supply of your medications (up to three months is allowed) and leave them in their labeled containers. • See “Prescription Drugs” on this page for more details on bringing medications to New Zealand. • We recommend that you undergo complete physical, vision and dental exams prior to departure. • Update any vaccination(s) your physician recommends. • Please note any medical conditions on the post-acceptance medical form. Remember that we keep all medical information strictly confidential. • If you have been treated for depression, anxiety, eating disorders or anything that can be classified as a mental health condition, discuss your study abroad plans with your support team. We strongly recommend continuing any current treatment while abroad. • Discuss the possibility of obtaining additional insurance coverage for treatment abroad with your parents or study abroad advisor.

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Cultural Insurance Services International 800-303-8120 www.culturalinsurance.com

Prescription Drugs You must declare prescription drugs of any kind when you arrive in New Zealand. Be sure to keep the medication in its original container from the pharmacy. You also will need a letter from your doctor listing the generic name of the drug, and stating that the drug is for medical purposes and is beneficial to your physical and/or mental well-being. In most cases, New Zealand Customs will limit you to a three-month supply of medication (six months for oral contraceptives) and you will have to visit a New Zealand doctor to obtain a prescription for refills. Do not have your parents or anyone else send you medication in New Zealand. Some FDA-approved medications (Adderall, for example) are considered controlled substances in New Zealand. As with any other medications, you should bring a detailed letter from your doctor. Contact your IFSA-Butler program advisor as soon as possible for assistance. You can find out how the New Zealand government classifies your prescription medications by visiting www.medsafe.govt.nz. Keep in mind that New Zealand Customs will limit you to a one-month supply of controlled drugs. For up-to-date information on New Zealand drug regulations, visit the New Zealand Ministry of Health Medsafe website at www.medsafe.govt.nz/Consumers/MIET/ImportMedicines.asp. You may also find more general customs information for travelers to New Zealand at www.customs.govt.nz/travellers/ default.htm.

Immunizations There are no required immunizations for U.S. citizens traveling to New Zealand, but we recommend that you have all standard immunizations up to date. For more information on health matters, consult the Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc. gov for recommendations and health alerts.

Students with Disabilities We encourage students with physical and learning disabilities to explore studying abroad through our programs. We can work with you and our affiliated universities to find a program that most closely meets your needs in a community that is as accessible as possible.

IFSA-Butler allowed me to have fun and be independent, while still reassuring me of its presence in New Zealand. If I needed something or wanted guidance, IFSA was always available to help. â&#x20AC;&#x201C;Sasha Stahl, Wesleyan University University of Auckland

We can investigate the availability of modified facilities, adaptive equipment, learning disability policies, local medical facilities or other required services. Equipment or services may result in an additional cost to you. If you have a learning disability, be aware that you will not automatically be provided the same accommodations that you receive at your home institution. All universities in New Zealand offer 10 minutes for every hour of standard testing time. You will not necessarily be given a private room. You can inform IFSA-Butler of any medical condition by filling out the post-acceptance medical form. Medical conditions have no bearing on your admission, but your study abroad experience may be negatively affected if all parties involved are not adequately informed of your needs. Please note that requests for special arrangements or accommodations require documentation from your home college or university, as well as from a physician or therapist. The deadlines to set up accommodations for exams are early in the semester. The IFSA-Butler New Zealand staff will send reminders about the deadlines for submitting these applications. If you are concerned about how a physical or learning disability may affect your study abroad experience, consult your IFSA-Butler program advisor to help identify the best program fit for you.

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Packing

Packing Tips

Please do not overpack! Storage space is usually minimal and closets in student residences are very small.

Luggage Size and Weight • New Zealand airlines have stringent baggage size and weight limits. Domestic flights to and from orientation will have smaller weight and size allowances for luggage. Keep this in mind as you travel to New Zealand for the semester. • You will have to carry all your luggage everywhere, so make sure that you can manage it by yourself. • If your carry-on does not meet your airline’s baggage requirements, you may be required to send it as checked luggage and pay additional fees. These charges my be in excess of US$200 so pack carefully. Your carry-on should weigh no more than 15 pounds and fit comfortably under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin.

Pack wisely and use suitable luggage. Trunks are too heavy and impossible to handle alone, and suitcases are bulky and tiring to carry. Past students suggest a sturdy, internal-frame backpack as the ideal piece of luggage. A backpack, small suitcase and small personal item are all the luggage you should need.

Climate The seasons in New Zealand are reversed from the U.S. seasons, with warm summers (December through February) and cool to cold winters (June through August). Winter can feel damp and cold, with frosty conditions more common on the South Island. Central heating is usually not available. Winter is often cooler and more damp than U.S. students expect. Be sure to pack the cool weather clothing recommended on p. 39. Average Winter Temperatures (June—August) • Auckland: Very rainy, humid, lows of 45–50ºF. • Christchurch: Occasional snowfall on hills, frequent frosts, normal wind and rain, lows of 30–40ºF. • Dunedin: Snowfall on hills, frequent frosts, normal wind and rain, lows of 30–40ºF. • Palmerston North: Normal rain, frequent frosts, lows of 40–45ºF. • Wellington: Occasional extreme winds, normal rain, occasional frosts, lows of 40–45ºF. Average Summer Temperatures (November—February) Average summer temperatures range from 60-80ºF throughout New Zealand.

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Protecting Your Luggage From Theft and Loss • Make luggage tags to identify all of your luggage, including your carry-on. • Put labels inside your luggage in case the outside labels fall off. • If you put a lock on your bag, make sure it is approved by the Transportation Security Administration (see www.tsa.gov); otherwise, airline security may cut it off. Protecting Your Documents and Valuables • Do not pack your tickets, passport, travel documents, medication or valuables in your checked luggage. Keep them on your person at all times. • Do not put valuables in a backpack; backpacks are prone to theft. General Packing Advice • Pack what you’ll need first on top in one bag. • Pack shampoos, toothpaste and any other liquids or gels in plastic bags. • A plastic bag can also be used to separate clean and dirty laundry and to hold wet clothes (resealable bags are the best). • Pack your carry-on so that you can live out of it for a few days if your checked luggage gets lost. • If you can’t decide whether to take something expensive or sentimental, ask yourself how you would feel if it was lost or stolen. • Leave room in your luggage to bring home the things you acquire while abroad. • Keep FAA regulations in mind when packing your carry-on. Do not bring anything that could be considered a weapon onto the plane.

Suggested Packing List Clothes • Hooded waterproof, windproof jacket • Wool or fleece sweaters • Heavy sweatshirt/fleece • T-shirts • Turtlenecks and button-down shirts • Jeans and/or casual pants • Shorts • Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes • Sneakers • Sandals • Warm hat, scarf and gloves • Warm socks • Long underwear for colder weather (polypropylene is best; don’t bring cotton) • Undergarments • Sleepwear • Workout clothes (optional) • Swimsuit • One business casual outfit Laundry methods may be hard on your clothes, so pack clothes that can take some abuse. You might have to dry your clothes on a line. Health, Hygiene and Safety • Prescription medications in their original labeled containers • Written prescriptions for refills (use the generic name)

• Letters from doctors for all medications, including contact information for the doctor and an explanation of what the medication is for (see page 36 for more information) • Spare contact lenses and glasses • Your lens or glasses prescription • At least one month’s supply of contact solution • Sunscreen of at least SPF 30 • Sunglasses • Sun hat • Small first-aid kit (band-aids, antibiotic cream, aspirin, cold and flu medication, cough drops, etc.) • Insect repellent • Travel-size toiletries Miscellaneous • Simple recipes • Journal and pen • Sewing kit • Laptop, tablet, iPod, e-reader, etc. • Camera and memory card • Umbrella • Sleeping bag (required for orientation) • Plug adaptor Items to Consider Renting or Purchasing in New Zealand • Musical instruments • Sports/hobby equipment (e.g., skis, snowboard, bicycle, ski boots) • Mobile phone Your Ideal Carry-On Bag Your Ideal Carry-On Bag

Do Not Bring • Expensive jewelry or items with sentimental value • Too much cash • Illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia of any kind • Electrical appliances (New Zealand uses different plugs and voltage.) • Too much luggage • Fruits, nuts, honey, meats or any food or plant materials that could contain pests of any kind • Medicines for which you don’t have identifying labels or proof of prescription • Dirty hiking, camping or other outdoor equipment • Mace or pepper spray, both of which are illegal in New Zealand

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• Passport (signed and stamped with your visa). Check to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months past the time you are scheduled to be abroad • Visa confirmation document • Your plane tickets and/or boarding passes • Travel-size toiletries • Credit cards, debit card and limited cash • Something to read • Something to listen to • Journal and a pen • A change of clothes in case your checked luggage is lost • Medications and written prescriptions • Sweater and/or waterproof jacket • Spare glasses and/or contact lenses and solution (the plane can be very dry, so you might want to wear glasses instead of your contact lenses) • Water (purchased after clearing security) and a small snack • Camera • Laptop, tablet and/or e-reader • Plug adaptor You should also pack in your carry-on all your important paperwork: • Contact details for your home institution advisor • Name and email of your IFSA-Butler program advisor and resident director • Contact details for your physician(s) • CISI insurance card • Updated home university transcript (a student copy is fine; you might need it during registration) • Your final New Zealand Travel Essentials, which will be mailed to your home address two to three weeks before departure. The New Zealand Travel Essentials update will include numbers for our New Zealand office and directions for where to go upon arrival in Auckland.

Linens and Towels All IFSA-Butler programs include a linen pack in their program fee. This is a basic pack with a pillow, case, comforter, sheets and a blanket. You may want to use a sleeping bag or purchase some additional items for extra warmth or comfort but the basics are provided. In all cases, you should bring at least one towel.

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Contact Lenses Pack a spare set of lenses and your eyeglasses in case of emergency. Bring your lens or glasses prescription. Your favorite contact care brands will probably be available in New Zealand, but the cost of solution is very expensive compared to in the United States. You may want to take enough to last your entire time abroad.

Appliances Don’t bring electrical appliances from home. You’ll need a voltage converter and plug adapter to make anything with a motor work in New Zealand’s threepronged, 230V outlets. Converters are unreliable and can even be fire hazards. Small appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons are easy to acquire in New Zealand and are relatively inexpensive.

Medication See page 36 for more details on taking medication to New Zealand.

Musical Instruments If you bring a musical instrument, pack it in a hard case and insure it. Instruments count as extra luggage on the flight and may incur an additional fee. If you bring a stringed instrument, loosen or remove the strings to reduce the tension on the neck during the flight.

Technology and Communications Laptops The only type of computer you should consider taking abroad is a laptop. Below are the pros and cons of bringing your own computer. Pros of Bringing a Laptop • The convenience of working on your assignments anywhere and anytime you want. • Immediate access for working on papers, uploading photos, etc. • No need to familiarize yourself with a different computer and software in New Zealand. • University computer labs in New Zealand usually close by 9 p.m. Cons of Bringing a Laptop • High risk of theft. • Internet may be slow in your housing. • Your laptop will work only if it has an internal voltage switch to work with New Zealand’s higher voltage electrical currents. • You will need to purchase a plug adapter so that your laptop can charge in an outlet in New Zealand. • You will need to find a safe place to store your laptop when you travel, or bring it along with you.

If you do bring your laptop, we recommend bringing an ethernet cable, as some housing options still use ethernet for Internet access. You can also purchase an inexpensive cable in your host city.

Internet Internet in New Zealand is based on a pay-as-youview quota system. Viewing web pages, downloading music and checking Internet-based email accounts all count toward a quota limit. You will be given a free Internet quota amount from your New Zealand university to be used at an oncampus computer lab. Once you set up your email account at your New Zealand university, you may want to have your family and friends start emailing you there, as you’ll be able to access that account on campus for free. Auckland, Victoria, Canterbury and Otago include Internet in their housing fees. Each flat or apartment is allocated a certain amount of data per month and your housing provider will contact you if you exceed what they consider ”reasonable usage.” Constant streaming of movies or videos, video chatting or gaming online will quickly use the monthly data allocation. Massey University students can access the Internet by purchasing a monthly subscription for about NZ$30 per month.

Computer Labs Computer labs are available at all the New Zealand universities with which IFSA-Butler works, although labs are rarely open 24 hours a day. You will be assigned a university email account.

Free Wifi and Internet Cafes Free wifi is available at cafes, chain restaurants, malls and public libraries. Internet cafes are also common in smaller towns if there are no cell phone signals available in the area.

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Tablets and E-Readers You may find iPads, Kindles or other tablets and e-readers useful while abroad. However, keep in mind that an outlet charger will not work abroad due to New Zealand’s different voltages and plugs. You can use a USB charger with your laptop, or you can purchase a travel adapter kit to charge your devices. Please be sure that any tablets or e-readers are insured against theft and damage.

Voltage Converters The U.S. operates on a 110V electrical system, while New Zealand has a 230V system. Most laptops and some small items such as shavers and camera battery chargers may be designed to handle both types of voltages; check the product information carefully. Otherwise you’ll need a voltage converter to operate any appliance from the U.S. Voltage converters are often unreliable and can result in electrical shock, damage to the device or even fire. This is why we recommend purchasing small appliances abroad.

Plug Adaptors The shape of outlet plugs are also different in New Zealand. You’ll need a plug adaptor for any appliance or electronic device from the U.S., even those designed to handle a higher voltage electrical system.

Cell Phones IFSA-Butler requires all students to have a cell phone while abroad. Phones must be able to send and receive texts from our New Zealand office, and we will collect cell numbers from students during orientation. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor is happy to answer questions about the cost and process of bringing or purchasing a cell phone abroad. Cell phone use is extensive in New Zealand. The three main cell phone service providers in New Zealand are Spark New Zealand Ltd, Vodafone New Zealand Ltd, and 2 Degrees.

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New Zealand has a very competitive cell phone market, with numerous companies offering a range of phones, payment plans and calling options. There is also extensive use of prepaid cell phones, with plans that vary from as little as NZ$49 for the connection fee with NZ$20 top-up required every 60 days. Your U.S. cell phone may be equipped to work in New Zealand, but check its capabilities with your U.S. service provider before leaving the United States. Some U.S. cell phones are not compatible with New Zealand’s cellular network. If you decide to rent or purchase a cell phone while in New Zealand, be prepared to explore the options once you arrive. While cell phone coverage is generally good in main centers and on main roads, it does not always extend to wilderness and rural areas. Your cell phone may not work on a hiking expedition, for example.

Calling Cards You can sign up for U.S.-based calling cards from AT&T, Sprint or other major phone providers. The bills for these calls can be included in your family’s home phone bill, or in a separate bill if you choose. You can use these cards from any type of phone while in New Zealand. Be sure to compare costs when choosing a card. Many of these companies also offer prepaid phone cards that can be used internationally, but you may find that prepaid cards bought in New Zealand (see Pay Phones below) offer better deals and are easier to use.

Calling Plans Many U.S.-based cell phone and land line companies offer special calling plans for frequent international calls. Your family and friends should shop around to find the best deals, but these can be expensive.

Pay Phones As in the U.S., pay phones are gradually disappearing in New Zealand. Telephones are generally not available in university housing. Pay phones are available throughout each campus and in most halls of residence.

Calls to New Zealand When your friends and family call New Zealand, they’ll need to use international codes. To call New Zealand from the United States, dial: • 011 to get your call routed out of the United States • 64 to route your call to New Zealand • the one-digit area code • the eight-digit local phone number Note that calls within New Zealand usually begin with a 0, but callers from the U.S. should drop the 0 when dialing your number.

Online Calling Options Skype, Facetime and What’s App are a great ways to make free or low-cost calls internationally. The only drawback is that they may not work well with low bandwidth Internet connections, which can be an issue with many university housing options in New Zealand, and streaming video will increase usage of download quota. Though a camera is nice, foregoing the picture will give you more bandwidth and take less data from your account. Google Talk offers Voice Over IP services online. It has fewer options than Skype but typically requires less bandwidth.

Phone Home Schedule Regardless of how you choose to contact your family, we advise you to set up a schedule for calling home. A schedule allows you to call when costs are lowest, and it also helps minimize your family’s worry about having you abroad because they know when to expect your calls.

Mail Letters to and from the United States take five to seven days to arrive. If anything needs to reach you in a hurry or is very important to you, use express mail or a fax. The New Zealand mail service also offers an international express service. The U.S. Post Office provides the most cost-effective shipment of small packages to New Zealand, which takes about a week. Be sure to tell your family and friends not to send mail to your New Zealand address prior to arrival.

Shipping Packages Shipping Companies When your family or friends send packages, they should mark them honestly and appropriately, for example: “Used clothing—property of addressee” or “Confectionery—gift only.” Items may be sent by air or surface mail. Surface mail can take as long as eight weeks to reach New Zealand and air mail may take from eight days to two weeks. The U.S. Postal Service and international shipping companies such as UPS and FedEx all have their own rules regarding shipping fees, customs charges and invoices for packages. Your family or friends should ask detailed questions and understand the postal or shipping company’s guidelines before sending parcels to you in New Zealand. Please do not have your mail or packages sent to the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office. Items to Avoid Shipping Abroad • Clothes: Whether they are previously worn or new, you’ll pay high customs charges and handling fees that often add up to more than the actual value of the clothing. Plan a little extra money in your budget to purchase anything you can’t bring in your luggage. • Laptops or other electronics: These are likely to get damaged or stolen in transit and will incur huge customs charges and handling fees. • Valuables • Medications

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LIVING ABROAD

Housing The IFSA-Butler program fee includes housing between the program start and end dates. IFSA-Butler students in New Zealand live in the following types of housing, depending on their program: â&#x20AC;˘ University-operated dormitories â&#x20AC;˘ Student apartments

University-Operated Dormitories University-operated dorms are somewhat like American residence halls, but they involve a much greater level of community life. They often have amenities such as kitchens, laundry rooms and study lounges, as well as student organizations. Many halls even have their own sports teams. Most offer single bedrooms, but some have doubles or even triples.

Student Apartments Student apartments are usually located off campus and may be owned by the host university or by a private company. Apartment living may require a commute via public transportation, bicycle or walking. Apartments are usually coed and house up to six students. Bedrooms are either singles or doubles, and residents share common areas, laundry facilities and well-equipped kitchens.

Independent Housing Although IFSA-Butler guarantees and arranges housing for students on our programs, you may choose to arrange your own housing abroad. Most students who choose independent housing do so because of health or religious reasons, or because they wish to stay with family. Should you choose our independent housing option, we will not charge you the housing component of your program fee. You must make all housing arrangements on your own, including deposits, damage costs and payment of utilities. In addition, your home college study abroad office will need to give permission in writing for you to arrange your own housing. IFSA-Butler does not assist in resolving independent housing issues.

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Meal Plans Some dorms provide a mandatory board plan and/or a variety of residential charges. Meal plans are not as common as in the U.S. and vary from institution to institution, offering from 10 to 21 meals per week. Most New Zealand meal plans don’t offer the range or variety of cuisine available to U.S. students at home. If you have dietary restrictions, contact your IFSA-Butler program advisor and discuss your housing options before submitting your housing preferences. The program fees for some IFSA-Butler New Zealand programs include the cost of meal plans. For all other programs, IFSA-Butler will send an invoice for the meal plan to your billing address toward the end of the semester. In either case, there is no refund for meals not taken.

General Housing Information The New Zealand Student Housing Experience IFSA-Butler does not provide special housing for students on our New Zealand programs. We want your experience to be reflective of the student life in New Zealand, so you’ll be living in the same housing as degree students. Although student housing in New Zealand is not luxurious, it is clean and suitable for student living. Housing Assignments In many instances IFSA-Butler does not make the placements in university housing; instead, we forward your housing preferences and housing application (if applicable) to the accommodation office at your New Zealand university. University accommodation offices make the housing assignments, which means that while you might ask for a single room or for self-catered housing, those choices are offered only if they are available.

Housing Offer Notification When we receive your housing offer from your university in New Zealand, we will forward it to you. However, sometimes we don’t receive university housing assignments prior to the start of the program. If you do not receive notice of your address before departure, you can expect to have it in writing at orientation.

Housing Changes and Withdraws Housing Changes Once made, housing arrangements are difficult to change. Should you choose to leave your assigned housing, the university accommodation office may impose a severe financial penalty or you may have to pay the remainder of the rent due on the original housing assignment. Housing Refund Policy Students who withdraw from their housing after the specified date for the payment of fees (December 15 for the semester 1/calendar year programs and May 15 for summer, semester 2 and academic year programs) will not receive a refund for the portion of the program fee covering housing unless the space can be filled. There are no refunds if you leave your housing after the term or semester has begun. Host University Withdraw Policies Some universities in New Zealand have instituted very strict withdraw policies, particularly for summer programs. The policies vary between universities but generally require students to pay a large penalty for withdrawing from the program after a specified date. These withdraw policies are clearly outlined on our website, on housing forms (in cases where penalties are tied to housing fees) and are also detailed in prearrival emails from our program advisors.

Housing Variations We provide a comparable standard of accommodation for all program participants. Exact conditions, equipment and amenities vary from university to university and apartment to apartment, depending on the age, size and location of the residence. We take care to ensure that all accommodations meet our quality standards, but even students attending the same university and paying the same housing fees may not have—and should not expect—identical housing.

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Special Housing Requests

Housing Amenities and Utilities

Roommate Requests Students are welcome to make roommate requests, but these requests must be mutual and in writing. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t guarantee that requests will be granted.

Linens A linen pack is included in the program fee for all our New Zealand programs. This does not always include a towel so we recommend students bring at least one towel with them.

Single-Sex Housing All accommodations, including student apartments, are coed unless otherwise stated. You may make a request for single-sex housing, but single-sex housing is limited at many universities and may be unavailable altogether.

Housing Policies Housing Vacation Policy Because you will be living far from home, IFSA-Butler covers the cost of housing during the midsemester vacations. At most New Zealand universities, these vacations are one or two weeks. Refunds are not available for students who choose to travel during vacation periods. Housing is not provided to academic year students who live in New Zealand during the summer months (November to February). Housing Contract All students sign a housing contract at the IFSAButler orientation. Some New Zealand universities require students to sign a separate housing contract. Visitors Your parents or other family members may want to visit you while you are studying abroad. This is a great opportunity to share your experience with your family, but they should not schedule their visit during the IFSA-Butler orientation or during your university exams. Your housing in New Zealand may have strict rules regarding overnight visitors. Any breach of visitor rules is a violation of your IFSA-Butler program contract and could lead to eviction. Please be courteous to roommates and neighbors, and check the rules before staying overnight with friends or inviting overnight guests of your own.

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Kitchen Supplies In some university-operated housing, students must provide their own pots, pans, crockery and other food preparation items. We recommend that you wait and see what supplies are in your housing, as past residents often leave things behind. You might also be able to share the cost with roommates. Heating Not all New Zealand university accommodations have central heat. Auxiliary heating is made available as necessary, but plan to dress more warmly than usual during the winter. The cost of heat is included in the IFSA-Butler program fee. Please be considerate of their budget and of the need to conserve energy. Air Conditioning Note that older dorms and residential colleges in New Zealand are not usually air conditioned. Students studying abroad during the New Zealand summer (November to February) may need to purchase a small fan for additional comfort.

Legal Matters Student Visa Semester and year students will need a passport and visa for travel and immigration purposes. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor will send you information and instructions on how to apply for the visa. If you are not a citizen of the U.S. or Canada, we advise you to be in touch with your own embassy or consulate to determine your visa requirements for New Zealand.

Legal Status While abroad, you are subject to local laws and customs that may vary considerably from U.S. practice. Ignorance of the law never serves as a defense for criminal activity. Wherever you are, be careful not to break the law. IFSA-Butler does not provide legal advice or support to students arrested abroad. IFSA-Butler reserves the right to dismiss you from the program if you are charged with a crime.

Possession and Sale of Narcotics Students who are caught using, possessing or dealing in drugs are subject to high fines, imprisonment and deportation. If you are accused of any illegal drug offense, you will be subject to New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s laws, and your U.S. citizenship will not provide any special protection.

Customs When reentering the United States, customs will require you to declare all items purchased abroad that you are bringing with you. U.S. Customs officials have a right to see costs of purchases, so keep an account of purchases with receipts. For more information about declaring personal items, visit www.customs.gov.

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Health and Safety Alcohol

Personal Safety Precautions Students tend to let down their guard when studying abroad, but being vigilant and cautious is as important in New Zealand as it is at home. We recommend the following basic safety precautions while studying and traveling abroad: Register with the U.S. State Department Register online with the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). You can enroll for free at https://step.state.gov/step/. This will allow the U.S. Embassy or Consulate to get in contact with you in the event of an emergency. Read the State Department Travel Advisories These are available for all countries, so be sure to read them for any place you plan to visit. Our New Zealand office routinely updates students on new State Department travel advisories, cautions and warnings, and updates are also available online at www.travel.state.gov. Keep a Low Profile Try to blend in with the host country’s surroundings as much as possible. Avoid speaking loudly and wearing clothes that mark you as a U.S. student (e.g., university fraternity or sorority shirts). Don’t hang out at tourist gathering places and do not travel with large groups of Americans. Be Cautious When Meeting New People Don’t give out your address, phone number or email and don’t feel like you have to “friend” new people on social media networks. Be aware of your surroundings and new people you meet.

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The legal drinking age is 18 in New Zealand, and alcohol is a pervasive presence both on and off campus. Pubs are a large part of the social scene. Although IFSA-Butler never pays for alcohol at events we sponsor, university-sponsored events might provide alcohol. Think about how you’ll deal with the easy access to alcohol before you go. Socializing with New Zealand students doesn’t mean you have to drink, and ordering a soft drink at a pub is perfectly acceptable. We recommend that you drink moderately if you choose to drink. We cannot emphasize enough how many discipline and safety issues are caused by overindulgence with alcohol and how many study abroad experiences are soured because of it. Most complaints and police encounters that involve study abroad students stem from the abuse of alcohol.

Alcohol Abuse If you are currently in a program to control your alcohol abuse, please inform us on the medical form that is included in your acceptance packet. Any information you relay to us will be kept confidential and will not affect your ability to enroll in our program. We can help you find continuing counseling and support abroad. IFSA-Butler reserves the right to remove from the program any student who behaves in a violent or self-destructive manner or who is charged with an alcohol-related crime.

Anti-Depressants and Anti-Anxiety Medication Students who are taking medication for a mental health condition should continue treatment unless advised by a physician to stop. Temporary changes in scene can make students feel overconfident that they are fine and no longer need their medication, but in reality, ceasing medication can have disastrous effects. Please see page 36 for more information about taking prescription medication into New Zealand.

Counseling Students with mental health conditions (including eating disorders, substance abuse problems and depression) are particularly susceptible to increased stress while studying abroad. We ask that you fully disclose any mental health condition to us before departure so that we can help arrange counseling support for you abroad. Any information will be completely confidential. Counseling practices in New Zealand are very similar to those in the United States. Your IFSA-Butler program advisor can give you the names of professionals in New Zealand before departure so that you can continue your counseling abroad. In addition, our New Zealand office can offer help, support and additional referrals if necessary. Additional medical insurance may be required to cover counseling sessions abroad.

Crime Petty theft is common throughout New Zealand. Don’t travel with valuable personal property and avoid traveling alone late at night. Make sure that the doors and windows of your housing are locked at all times. We encourage you to leave anything of monetary or sentimental value in the United States. During orientation, we provide tips on how to carry credit cards and cash, and how to find help in case of an emergency. Our staff also focus on personal safety and common sense rules of living abroad. There is no reason to be unduly concerned about crime in New Zealand. Incidences of violent crime are lower than in the United States, but it is still important to take reasonable precautions with your personal safety and belongings.

Personal Safety Precautions (continued) Travel in pairs It’s always safer to travel with a friend instead of traveling alone. Do Not Hitchhike Local students may tell you hitchhiking is safe, but hitchhiking is no safer in New Zealand than in the United States. When Traveling, Share Your Travel Plans When leaving your host city for personal travel, complete the online travel form to let our New Zealand office know where you’re going. More details will be included in the Student Handbook at orientation. Also share your travel plans with family or friends, especially if you’ll be out of cell phone range or away from email for several days. Have Enough Money Make sure you have enough money with you, especially when you’re traveling. Keep your cash, credit cards and debit card in separate places in case of theft. Do Not Leave Your Bags Unattended Do not agree to carry or look after packages or suitcases for anyone, and never leave your bags unattended. Keep in Touch with Current Events Know what’s going on politically in the world by keeping up with the news. Keep in Touch with Our New Zealand Office Should an emergency occur in New Zealand, check in immediately by phone, email or Facebook with our New Zealand office. Also contact your parents to let them know you are fine.

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Drink Spiking

Loneliness and Homesickness

While abroad, be aware of the dangers of drink spiking. When at a pub, never leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from a stranger.

Adjusting to a new way of life can be very stressful, and homesickness is common in study abroad. If you get homesick, we encourage you to share your feelings with someone. Counseling services are available on your campus, and the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office is only a phone call away.

Eating Disorders Eating disorders are common among U.S. university students and the stress of studying abroad sometimes causes these disorders to intensify. Both our U.S. and New Zealand offices can help you locate counseling at your host university, or with a community support group if you would rather seek help off campus.

Fire Safety Fire codes and safety standards in New Zealand are very strict. Make an effort to learn the fire safety regulations of your housing, including fines for false alarms, and be sure to follow all rules regarding candles, cooking, appliances, etc. In addition, protect yourself by memorizing the location of exits and fire extinguishers.

LBGTQ Rights LBGTQ rights are far less controversial in New Zealand than in the U.S., and discrimination against LBGTQ people is illegal. However, if you feel you are the victim of prejudice or discrimination, contact the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office for advice.

To combat homesickness, get involved in a sport or group. Keep a regular, healthy diet and exercise schedule, get enough sleep and continue your interests.

Natural Disasters The main natural disaster risk in New Zealand is earthquakes. The IFSA-Butler orientation will include instructions on what to do during an earthquake and how to stay safe during the quake and aftershocks. Other natural disasters in New Zealand can include tsunamis, landslides and cyclones.

Political Demonstrations New Zealand is a very stable, peaceful society, but occasionally political events and controversial issues can spark public demonstrations. IFSA-Butler warns all students to steer clear of pickets, strikes and demonstrations.

Program Evacuation IFSA-Butler has a lengthy evacuation plan for students in all locations. In the unlikely event of a serious terrorist attack, devastating natural disaster or political unrest in New Zealand, we would follow our evacuation procedures in consultation with the U.S. embassy, our evacuation assistance provider and our on-site office in New Zealand. Our policy is to initiate emergency travel or evacuation only as a last resort and/or when recommended by the U.S. State Department. During any kind of crisis abroad, IFSA-Butler stays in close contact with students, their emergency contacts and each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home college or university.

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Sexual Heath STDs are as large a health threat in New Zealand as they are in the United States. Take the same precautions as you would at home. Most student unions, pharmacies and grocery stores sell condoms. Some other forms of contraception can be bought off the shelf but require referral from a family planning association. Your student health center can provide you with information regarding emergency contraception.

Reduce your risk of sexually transmitted diseases and unplanned pregnancy by behaving responsibly and protecting yourself.

Smoking Smoking is banned in all indoor public workplaces and pubs, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and casinos. Smoking is also banned in most outdoor public areas. As in the U.S., cigarettes are heavily taxed in New Zealand.

Campus medical centers offer reproductive health services, including contraception, emergency contraception and referrals to general practitioners. Birth control pills are available in New Zealand in the same dosages as in the United States, but brand names may differ. Pharmacies are under no obligations to fill U.S. prescriptions, so you will need to have a local doctor write you a new prescription. Once you have registered with the university doctor and undergone an exam, the doctor can write you a prescription.

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Embassy and Consular Services

Program Safety

U.S. Embassy and Consulates abroad provide the following services: • Replacement of passports • Assistance in locating medical service and notifying friends and family in case of emergency • Assistance with finances if money is lost or stolen • Attorney lists, transfer of money and notification of family for U.S. citizens in jail • Disaster or emergency evacuation assistance

IFSA-Butler is committed to ensuring the safety of all students on our programs. We ask students to read the descriptions of and sign waivers for certain activities that we organize. All activities are completely optional. In addition, we use only licensed and bonded companies for transporting students during orientation and co-curricular activities.

The U.S. Embassies and Consulates do not serve as travel agencies, banks, law offices, police or job placement services. The U.S. Embassy in New Zealand is located in Wellington at: 29 Fitzherbert Terrace Thorndon Wellington 6011 Telephone: +64 4 462 6000 https://nz.usembassy.gov/ The U.S. Consulate in Auckland is located at: Level 3, 23 Customs Street East Auckland 1010 Telephone: +64 4 462 6000 https://nz.usembassy.gov/

Registering With the Embassy We strongly recommend that you register your semester, year or summer abroad with the U.S. Embassy in New Zealand. You can do so online with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Registering your address and dates abroad will allow embassy officials to reach you in the event of an natural disaster or other national emergency in New Zealand, and it would also help the embassy to assist you if you experience a serious medical or personal emergency abroad. You can enroll for free at https://step.state.gov/step/. If you are not a U.S. citizen, we recommend registering with your home country’s embassy in New Zealand before departure.

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We have extensive support systems in New Zealand to help you with any personal or academic problems. Our New Zealand office staff can be contacted 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency. We will give you an emergency card with contact information during your orientation. Keep it with you at all times.

Being a U.S. Citizen Abroad While studying in New Zealand, you may encounter negative attitudes toward Americans and U.S. government, history or culture. Most anti-American opinions are just that: individual opinions about U.S. politics or culture. They may be based on history, current events, stereotypes, media or experiences with other Americans. Do not react defensively and try not to take these opinions personally. Before going abroad, brush up on U.S. history and politics, as well as the reasoning behind U.S. foreign policy. This kind of knowledge will help you participate in conversations or debates without feeling helpless. You can expect to be asked your opinion on a regular basis. You may also wish to read up on New Zealand history, politics and current events so that you can be well informed about your host country. Study abroad is full of academic and cultural challenges, including the reality that a wide range of opinions about the United States exists. Remember that our staff in New Zealand are happy to lend a sympathetic ear and offer further advice for dealing with these situations.

Emergencies Abroad Please take reasonable safety precautions while abroad. Avoid risky behavior and pay attention to local laws and warning signs. Carry a next-of-kin contact card in your wallet along with the emergency contact wallet card we give you during orientation. Our New Zealand office emergency number is for use after business hours and on weekends. Our staff are happy to help in a true emergency, but please don’t contact staff after hours with a concern that can be handled during the regular business day.

Specific Emergencies New Zealand’s emergency number is 111. To contact police, fire or an ambulance in New Zealand, call 111 on any phone. In case of severe weather or natural disasters Follow local emergency directions. In addition, be sure to contact IFSA-Butler via email or phone according to the information provided on your IFSAButler laminated emergency contact card so that we know you’re safe.

I will most remember New Zealand for challenging me to engage with the outdoors meaningfully and to be humble before nature! New Zealand is a outdoor lover’s dream. I loved white water rafting in Rotorura. That was thrilling and truly beautiful. –Sasha Stahl, Wesleyan University University of Auckland

If you are hospitalized abroad Contact our New Zealand office immediately. We can help you with insurance questions and make sure you are looked after once you have been discharged. If you have been arrested abroad Call our New Zealand office emergency number. We can’t provide you with legal help, but we can contact family members for you. Always contact your parents by phone or email as soon as you are able to let them know you are fine!

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Culture Shock Study abroad is not a vacation but a true experience in acculturation. While abroad you are expected to blend in with and live like others in New Zealand. Even if you’ve already visited New Zealand on vacation, living there is different. You may become frustrated by all the differences in culture, daily life and lack of conveniences, such as operating a phone, finding late shopping hours and getting around on the train or bus. So much of what you see, hear and experience in New Zealand seems much like home. Language is not a problem, the student cultures are similar, and U.S. brand names, TV shows and even sports logos are everywhere. But New Zealand has an unmistakably different culture. When those differences become apparent, they can hit with considerable impact. The culture shock curve has three basic phases and a more complicated phase as you return to the United States: Phase I: The Honeymoon You may experience an initial euphoria about being in a new place. During this period, you cannot envision anything better than being in New Zealand. The honeymoon can last for as little as a week or for as long as six weeks. Phase II: End of the Honeymoon The end of the honeymoon is characterized by an acute dislike for anything having to do with the location, people, new words or customs of New Zealand. You may feel a general sense of distress and frustration. Luckily, this period of disillusionment usually passes quickly. If you seem to experience culture shock or loneliness for an extended time, ask for help. Our New Zealand staff have years of experience assisting students, and they will gladly take the time to speak with you about the challenges you are facing. We are as interested as you are in making sure that your period of study abroad is a success, both personally and academically. Phase III: Adjustment After the period of disillusionment comes adjustment. Some students adjust by “going native” (adopt-

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ing wholeheartedly the new culture) and end up with a new haircut, a new accent and/or a new style of dress! For most students, this adaptation gradually becomes more natural as they become more settled and are able to see both the positive and negative aspects of their host culture. Phase IV: Reverse Culture Shock Returning home may expose you to these same feelings all over again. Your time abroad will probably make you more self-sufficient and independent, but the friends you left behind will not have grown quite so dramatically and might not want to hear about your experiences. You’ll undoubtedly be happy to be home and to see family and friends, but you’ll also be missing the friends and the lifestyle of your time abroad. If you find that you’re having difficulty readjusting to the United States, the study abroad advisor on your home campus can help. Consider volunteering as a peer mentor on your home campus, or apply to be an IFSA-Butler Ambassador. Both are great resume builders and a way to share your positive experiences with others.

Summary We hope this booklet has addressed most of your questions and that it continues to be a resource for you and your family throughout the study abroad experience. Please consult page 60 for contact information for our offices. We’re always happy to answer questions!

IFSA-BUTLER POLICIES

Please note the following important policies for students in our New Zealand programs. Page numbers containing additional information are also noted.

Orientation – p. 10 The IFSA-Butler orientation in New Zealand is mandatory. We reserve the right to remove a student from the program for missing any part of orientation.. Program Duration – p. 12 Your IFSA-Butler program services abroad are in effect between the program start date and program end date on the program calendar. Course Registration – p. 17 As an IFSA-Butler participant, you are required to undertake a full course load at your host university and to follow its regulations for degree-seeking students, including taking exams where applicable. Types of Courses Permitted – p. 17 IFSA-Butler does not allow students to take graduate courses, courses for audit, online courses or courses for pass/fail instead of a grade, unless that is the only way the course is assessed. Special Exam Arrangements – p. 19 You may not reschedule an exam, request alternate assessments or arrange to have your exams proctored in the United States. If you do, IFSA-Butler will not conduct an academic query or follow-up on the class in which you arranged an alternate exam or assessment. Transcript Alterations – p. 19 The final Butler University transcript is a legal document. Butler University cannot alter any grade, course title or credit allocation. Withdrawing from the Program – p. 21 IFSA-Butler may allow a student to leave the program early only in cases of severe medical or personal problems, and only for circumstances approved by your host university. Otherwise, IFSA-Butler does not report grades as incomplete. An incomplete or “absent” grade will be reported on your Butler University transcript as a fail.

Tuition Supplemental Fees – p. 24 Many universities in New Zealand impose supplemental fees for enrollment in some departments or for certain housing options. IFSA-Butler will pass along tuition supplemental fees to the student’s billing address after the student has arrived abroad—in some cases, the bill may arrive toward the end of the student’s time abroad or even after the student has returned home. Supplemental costs for each program’s tuition are clearly outlined on our website, www.ifsa-butler.org. It is the student’s responsibility to investigate potential supplemental costs before going abroad, and for discussing these costs with parents, financial aid officers and home university study abroad advisors. Host University Withdraw Fees – p. 24 Some universities in New Zealand have instituted very strict withdraw policies, particularly for summer programs. The policies vary between universities but generally require students to pay a large penalty for withdrawing from the program after a specified date. These withdraw policies are clearly outlined on our website, on housing forms (in cases where penalties are tied to housing fees) and are also detailed in prearrival emails from our program advisors.

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Payment Due Dates and Financial Deadlines – p. 25 Please note the important payment due dates for New Zealand on page 25. IFSA- Butler charges a $45 fee for late payments. Delinquent Payments – p. 25 If we do not receive financial aid documentation or your full payment by the payment deadline listed above, you will be withdrawn from our program. You will not be refunded your $500 program deposit or the cost of your airline ticket. Financial Aid Payments – p. 26 If you plan to apply financial aid toward the payment of the IFSA-Butler program fee, you must send us a copy of your contractual/consortium agreement (from your financial aid officer) and a copy of your financial aid award letter and/or loan guarantees. These documents should indicate the amount of financial aid award and its disbursal date.

Housing Supplemental Fees – pp. 44 and 45 Some residential halls in New Zealand have a mandatory meal plan. If you are housed in a hall that charges supplemental fees, IFSA-Butler will send an invoice for these fees to your U.S. billing address after your arrival in New Zealand; in some cases, the invoice may arrive toward the end of the semester. Student Acceptance Agreement All students receive a student acceptance agreement when they have been offered a place on their program. Program participants must sign the student acceptanct agreement before departure. Academic and Housing Contracts – p. 17, p. 46 Once abroad, all students must read and sign IFSAButler’s academic and housing contracts.

Every single person who worked for IFSA was genuinely so kind and helpful. They all felt like friends. Throughout the entire experience—before I left, while I was there, and after I returned—I was i extremely impressed with how helpful IFSA and all their employees were. –Kit Allgaier, Bucknell University Victoria University of Wellington

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I N F O R MI A NTF IOORNM A T I O N

Information Resources Travel Resources New Zealand universities have student travel services available on campus, usually as part of their student union facilities, and the IFSA-Butler New Zealand office has a great deal of information on travel within New Zealand and neighboring countries. All major cities have budget travel services that can provide information and special offers. We also recommend you check online for regular travel specials. Visit reliable travel websites or buy a good guidebook. We highly recommend both the Lonely Planet Guide and the Rough Guide. Be sure to consult books and websites that are geared to the budget traveler. We also recommend Culture Shock! New Zealand, an entertaining guide to customs and etiquette. See the following websites before departure: • IFSA-Butler: www.ifsa-butler.org • IFSA-Butler New Zealand Office: newzealand.ifsa-butler.org • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travel Page: www.cdc.gov/travel. Check out the current health recommendations for New Zealand and any other countries you are considering visiting. • U.S. State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): https://step.state.gov/step • U.S. State Department New Zealand Information: http://www.state.gov/p/eap/ci/nz • The Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com • New Zealand Embassy in the United States: www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/ north-america/united-states-of-america/newzealand-embassy-washington

The following websites provide great information about New Zealand: • Lonely Planet: www.lonelyplanet.com • Bug Pacific: www.bugpacific.com/destinations/ nz.html • Backpacking NZ: www.backpackerboard.co.nz • Tourism New Zealand: www.newzealand.com/ travel/USA • YHA New Zealand: www.yha.org.nz/ • New Zealand Department of Conservation: www. doc.govt.nz/News The following sites are great places to start the search for New Zealand news: • Stuff Nation: www.stuff.co.nz • New Zealand Herald: www.nzherald.co.nz • The Dominion Post: www.dompost.co.nz • Radio New Zealand: www.radionz.co.nz Books • History of New Zealand by Keith Sinclair • Maverick Guide to New Zealand by Robert Bone • The Penguin History of New Zealand by Michael King • Tramper’s Guide to New Zealand’s National Parks by A.R. Burton • Wild Rivers by John MacKay Films • Broken English • Heavenly Creatures • The Lord of the Rings Trilogy • Once Were Warriors • The Piano • Scarfies • Topless Women Talk About Their Lives • Whale Rider • What’s Become of the Broken-Hearted • Eagle vs. Shark • Black Sheep • What We Do in the Shadows • Hunt for the Wilderpeople

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Common Terms and Slang All Blacks /The ABs Angus Bikkie Blokes Bring a Plate Chilly bin “Cheers” Chips Chocka Block Choice Chook College Cuppa Dairy “Eh” / “Aye” A feed Fizzy drink Flat Gidday Gumboots “Had it” Heaps Hungus “I reckon” Jandals Jersey/jumper Kai Kiwi Lollies

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National rugby team and the pride of New Zealand Someone with an anger problem Cookie Males Food for a pitch-in or potluck meal A cooler used for keeping drinks cold “Thank you” or “Goodbye” French fries or potato chips Crowded/busy Excellent Chicken High school A hot drink, coffee or tea Corner convenience store “Don’t you think so/agree?” OR “Pardon?” A meal Soda Shared accommodation at university Casual greeting Rubber boots Tired Many / A lot of Someone who eats too much “I think so too” Flip flops Sweater Food A New Zealander or the country’s national bird Candy, sweets

L&P Macca’s Mate Mince Paper Pissed Pudding Refill Rubber Serviettes Skivvy Smoko Stubbie Stuffed Stoked Sweet as Ta Tea Togs Tomato sauce The wops Uni

A fizzy soft drink sold only in New Zealand McDonald’s Friend Ground beef Class/course Drunk Dessert A4 sized writing paper that can be used to re-fill folders Eraser Napkins A high necked garment worn under a jersey Morning or afternoon tea break. Small bottle of beer Tired or very full Very happy/excited Good Thank you Cup of tea drink OR the evening meal Swimsuit Ketchup Really far away, the middle of nowhere University or college

New Zealand Food and Drink Anzac Biscuit This crunchy cookie named after the World War I Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) is flavored with rolled oats, syrup and coconut. Ethnic foods The popularity of ethnic food has skyrocked in New Zealand in the past few decades. Asian foods and restaurants in particular are easy to find in most New Zealand cities. Hokey Pokey Creamy vanilla ice cream served with pieces of honeycomb. Kiwifruit This delicious and healthy fruit is common at any meal. Note that New Zealanders called it kiwifruit, not kiwi. Lamb Lamb is a favorite dish in New Zealand and one of the country’s top exports. Lamb is served in a multitude of forms, including chops, chunks in casseroles or ground up in burgers. Marmite The New Zealand version of Australia’s vegemite, marmite is a paste made from yeast extract, vegetables and spices. It is most commonly used as a spread on toast or in sandwiches but may also be added to soups and stews. Marmite has an earthy, salty taste and is meant to be spread very thinly on sandwiches. Meat pies A tradition reflecting many New Zealanders’ British ancestry, meat pies are a popular comfort food. Filled with ground lamb, beef, chicken or pork, these pies are a filling and delicious comfort food. Pavlova A meringue-type dessert that’s topped with cream and fresh fruit, Pavlova is a permanent fixture at many family Christmases. Seafood With 8,700 miles of coastline, New Zealand is home to some amazing seafood. Mussels, oysters, scallops and Whitebait fish are among the most popular types of fish. More common types of fish such as snapper and hoki are often breaded and served British-style with French fries as fish and chips. Weetbix A popular breakfast cereal. Wine New Zealand is one of the world’s largest and most respected producers of wine. Riesling, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon are the most commonly produced and exported varieties. New Zealand’s Sauvignon Blanc wines are often named as the best in the world.

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About Us Institute for Study Abroad The Institute for Study Abroad is a nonprofit organization founded at Butler University to provide high-quality study abroad opportunities, plus academic and personal support services, for qualified U.S. undergraduates seeking to earn academic credit through study abroad. While the Institute for Study Abroad is affiliated with Butler University, it is not a department of the University. IFSA-Butler is organized to assist our students from the time they apply until after they return. Staff at the IFSA-Butler U.S. office and our offices around the world are committed to our students. We help them develop realistic expectations and adjust easily to the very different student lifestyles and academic expectations of their host institutions. For a list of programs available in Argentina, Australia, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Cuba, Czech Republic, Ecuador, England, India, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Scotland, Spain and Wales please visit our website at www.ifsa-butler.org.

Butler University Butler University is a nationally recognized, comprehensive university encompassing six colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts and Sciences, and Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Together, these colleges offer more than 60 undergraduate majors, eight pre-professional majors, one first professional and 18 masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degrees. Approximately 4,700 students are enrolled at Butler University, representing 45 states and 52 countries. Approximately 77 percent of Butler University students will have participated in some form of internship, student teaching, clinical rotation, research or service learning by the time they graduate. In addition to this professional experience, Butler University students develop lifelong skills in critical thinking, effective communication, cooperative teamwork and ethical decision making. Butler University endeavors to prepare students not simply to make a living, but to live lives of purpose in which personal flourishing is intertwined with the welfare of others.

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IFSA-Butler Directory New Zealand Office Sian Munro, Director of New Zealand Programs (Dunedin) Debbie Campbell, Office Manager & Academic Affairs Coordinator Emily Nicholson, Senior Student Services Coordinator (Auckland) Hannah Hutton, Student Services Coordinator (Wellington, Palmerston North) Katie Ridley, Student Services Coordinator (Canterbury) Briar Bradfield-Watson, Student Services Coordinator (Otago) New Zealand Office Phone (from U.S.): 011-64-4-471-0145 Toll-free telephone: 0800-202-171 (in New Zealand) Toll-free emergency telephone: 0800-700-141 (in New Zealand) Email: newzealand@ifsa-butler.org Website: http://newzealand.ifsa-butler.org/ Mailing address: C/O Office Suites Wellington Limited P.O. Box 25480 Featherston Street Wellington 6146 New Zealand U.S. Office Local: 317-940-9336 Toll free: 800-858-0229 Fax: 317-940-9704 Email: studyabroad@ifsa-butler.org Website: www.ifsa-butler.org Address IFSA-Butler 6201 Corporate Drive, Suite 200 Indianapolis, IN 46278 Other Numbers Advantage Travel: 800-788-1980

Preparing to Study Abroad New Zealand ÂŠ Institute for Study Abroad, Butler University Printed on recycled paper.