January in Auckland
Unique Experiences
Learn Māori perspectives on sustainability
at an urban community garden to understand indigenous and contemporary connections to the land
Explore Tiritiri Matangi Island
to photograph rare native birds, coastal forests, and restored habitats
Walk Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill domain
and visit the Stardome Observatory to explore Māori and colonial histories embedded in the stars
Your Destination
Auckland is New Zealand’s vibrant, multicultural city, celebrated for its warm summer climate, stunning natural landscapes, and rich Māori heritage. January is the perfect time to experience the city's charm with long sunny days, outdoor festivals, and breathtaking beaches just a short trip away. Explore iconic landmarks like the Sky Tower and Auckland Domain, visit world-class museums, and immerse yourself in the city's lively waterfront atmosphere. Whether you are majoring in business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Auckland is the perfect place to study abroad on winter break while enjoying an unforgettable summer in the Southern Hemisphere.
Program Highlights
- Academic Course: Take one CIEE course delivered in-person at the CIEE Center.Immersive Experiences: Participate in activities, excursions, study tours, and more, that showcase Auckland's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
- Cultural Projects: Volunteer with members of the local community, join student clubs to socialize with your peers, and attend local workshops and events to get to know your host city.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Auckland will open doors for you to explore New Zealand’s rich diversity, language, culture, history, contemporary trends, vibrant art, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of excursions and activities:
- Enjoy a waterfront evening under the stars at Silo Park, with films, food trucks, and live music
- Visit Avondale Farmers Market, a local favorite for sampling international flavors and connecting with community culture
- Ferry to Devonport to explore volcanic cones, heritage architecture, and beautiful North Shore beaches
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Program Blogs
My 24-hour visit to Auckland!
When most people think of visiting New Zealand, Queenstown usually tops the list. But skipping Auckland—New Zealand’s largest city with over 1.5 million people—means missing out on a whole different... keep reading
Australia vs. New Zealand Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?
You’ve decided to study abroad in the Oceania region. Congrats! You’ve taken the first big step in your study abroad journey. Next up? Choosing between Australia vs. New Zealand study... keep reading
Study Abroad New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide
Known for its rich Māori culture, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and top-ranked universities, New Zealand study abroad is a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. From its unparalleled natural beauty to its reputation... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Auckland offers housing to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. All housing has convenient access to basic amenities, including pharmacies, shopping places, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transportation.
Standard Housing: Includes a double occupancy room in shared apartments/residence halls.
Shared Apartments/Residence Halls: Double occupancy rooms in shared apartments/residence halls feature a fully equipped kitchen, shared living rooms and bathrooms, and coin-operated shared laundry facilities onsite. Students must bring their own bed sheets and towels – pillows and duvets are provided. All apartments are located within a 45-minute commute of CIEE Auckland via public transportation.
Meals
Shared Apartment/Residence Hall: While meals are not included, students can prepare their own meals in the fully furnished kitchen. Auckland has a vibrant food scene with fresh local fruits, vegetables, and meats readily available. Students can also explore the various restaurants in the areas surrounding the residence hall.
Academics
CIEE Auckland: Study in Auckland, a vibrant city known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse communities, and welcoming atmosphere. From exploring local markets and cultural festivals to enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks and beaches, experience the unique blend of urban and natural beauty that defines Auckland.
Course Information
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program January 2026 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date |
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Brett Armstrong
Center Director
Brett’s passion for global education has been shaped by a lifelong connection to academia and travel. Raised in San Diego, California, by an academic family, his mother’s dedication as a...
Maria Paz Montes Monsalve
Program Coordinator
María Paz Montes-Monsalve is an experienced professional in the international education field, with a background on translation and research.
Get Started
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Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
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Contact Us
Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
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