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Study Abroad in Auckland

College Study Abroad

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Auckland harbor bridge at dusk

Explore Auckland, New Zealand

Get ready to study abroad in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city famed for its outstandingly beautiful beaches, spectacular waterfront, lush rainforest-covered ranges, magnificent skyline, and scenic gulf islands. In addition to the city’s renowned natural beauty, Auckland is also known for its iconic landmarks, like Sky Tower, and its rich cultural scene, from its numerous museums and galleries to its theaters showcasing both the traditional Maori culture and contemporary arts. This multicultural city provides students with the chance to engage with people from various backgrounds, expanding their global perspective and intercultural competence.

During an Auckland study abroad experience, you’ll be surrounded by prestigious universities and educational institutions, like the University of Auckland and Auckland University of Technology, where local and international students receive a high-quality education while immersing themselves in New Zealand’s unique setting. In addition to its reputation of academic excellence, Auckland boasts an incredible outdoor lifestyle and emphasis on sustainability, making it an ideal destination for students interested in the environment. 

While abroad, students may complete a full- or part-time internship in Auckland, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, arts, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.

With easy access to lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine coastlines, students can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and sailing, promoting physical well-being and environmental awareness. This dynamic and enriching study abroad location combines robust academics with cultural immersion and outdoor adventure, shaping students to become well-rounded and globally minded individuals. 

SEARCH AUCKLAND PROGRAMS

  • auckland new zealand map
  • auckland sky tower view from city streets
  • auckland rangitoto island

Study Tours & Cultural Excursions in New Zealand

Every CIEE semester program has frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Auckland, study tours and cultural excursions may include:

  • A visit to Sky Tower, a 1,076-foot-tall telecommunications and observation tower
  • A day trip to the volcanic Rangitoto Island for a hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Hauraki Gulf
  • A hike in the Waitakere Ranges, where you’ll discover native flora and fauna while trekking through lush rainforest trails and cascading waterfalls

If you’re a student looking for an authentic study abroad experience in Auckland, our cultural excursions and tours allow you to do just that! Whether you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit famous sites, or make new friends, Auckland study abroad offers something for everyone. 

Study Abroad Programs in Auckland

auckland aerial skyline
  • Auckland, New Zealand
New for Summer '25
  • Study Program

Spend your summer in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, where a vibrant and diverse environment seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty.

Features
  • Big City
Auckland harbor bridge at dusk
  • Auckland, New Zealand
New for Summer '25
  • Study Program
  • Full-Time Internship

Spend your summer gaining valuable real-world work experience and broadening your global perspective with an internship in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and cultural hub.

auckland sky tower view from city streets
  • Auckland, New Zealand
New for Fall '25
  • Study Program
  • Part-Time Internship

Designed for all academic majors, this program combines CIEE classes with those offered by the prestigious University of Auckland.

Features
  • Big City
  • Dorm/Residence hall
  • Homestay
auckland bayswater marina and harbour bridge

New Programs Coming Soon!

  • Arts + Sciences  – Coming Fall 2025
  • Open Campus Block  – Coming Spring 2026
  • Engineering, Technology, and Science Coming Fall 2025
  • Intern + Study Abroad – Coming Summer 2025
Pocket Guide to Auckland

Currency 
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Spoken Languages IN Auckland 
English, Te reo Māori, Samoan, Mandarin, and Hindi

Available Transportation 
Train, bus, harbor ferry

Famous Local 
KJ Apa – New Zealand actor and singer

Climate 
Subtropical climate with mild, rainy winters and warm summers

Local Attraction 
The Sky Tower – the tallest manmade structure in the southern hemisphere

Airport 
Auckland Airport (AKL)

Social Norms 
New Zealanders expect punctuality; don’t be 5+ minutes late without forewarning

What to Pack 
Hiking shoes, swimwear, waterproof jacket, sunscreen 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Auckland is an excellent place to study abroad! With its renowned universities offering diverse academic programs, rich cultural heritage, vibrant city life, and stunning natural landscapes, Auckland study abroad provides students with a unique and enriching experience. Whether exploring the city's iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in the traditional Maori culture, or enjoying outdoor adventures in the surrounding wilderness, you can benefit from a well-rounded education while embracing New Zealand's warm hospitality and embracing its spirit of innovation and sustainability.

Studying abroad in Auckland offers a dynamic blend of academic rigor, cultural immersion, and outdoor exploration. Students experience a welcoming and multicultural environment, engaging with diverse perspectives and fostering global connections. In a city home to top-tier universities, students benefit from high-quality education while having ample opportunities to explore New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests. In addition to Auckland's natural beauty, the city’s vibrant city life provides endless entertainment options, from exploring museums and art galleries to enjoying the bustling nightlife. Overall, studying abroad in Auckland offers a transformative experience that combines academic growth with personal adventure and cultural discovery.

Auckland study abroad offers an unforgettable blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure for students from all academic backgrounds. Home to prestigious universities with highly qualified faculty on staff, students receive a robust education while engaging with a multicultural community. Auckland's rich Maori heritage and vibrant arts scene provide opportunities for cultural exploration, while its stunning natural landscapes offer endless outdoor activities, from surfing on pristine beaches to hiking through lush rainforests. Embrace Auckland’s spirit of innovation and sustainability in one of the world's most livable cities while expanding your global perspective and creating lifelong memories.

Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Auckland with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!

Search our internship opportunities to get started!

Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants

auckland man overlooking sky tower

Apply in 1,2,3!

CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Auckland to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through three simple steps: 

  1. Search for and apply to your dream program 
  2. Review all available funding opportunities 
  3. Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
auckland girls with backpacks in the street

Study Abroad Scholarships

NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.

MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS

Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.

OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS

Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.

VIEW OUR SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS

Talk to a Student Who's Lived it...

Ask an Ambassador

Reach out to one of our Student Ambassadors to learn what CIEE Study Abroad is really like from alums who've lived it! Address any questions you may have about Auckland, from your academic interests and travel planning to housing and cultural differences.