5 Things to Know Before Learning English in New Zealand

Learning English in New Zealand is one of the smartest choices for international students who want high-quality education in an immersive, English-speaking environment. I’ve researched and analyzed why thousands of learners choose New Zealand every year, and the benefits go far beyond just learning the language.

New Zealand offers world-class English language schools, a safe and welcoming culture, and breathtaking natural scenery. The country’s education system is highly respected, with institutions that follow strict government regulations to ensure top-tier teaching. Whether you’re looking for IELTS preparation, general English courses, or business English training, you’ll find tailored programs that fit your goals.

One of the biggest advantages of studying English in New Zealand is the opportunity for real-world practice. Unlike some destinations where international students tend to cluster, here you’ll be encouraged to interact with native speakers daily. Plus, many language schools in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch offer work-study programs, allowing students to gain experience while improving fluency.

Another key factor is the ease of obtaining a New Zealand student visa, with flexible options for short-term and long-term learners. The cost of living is reasonable compared to other English-speaking countries, and many schools provide affordable homestay accommodations or student housing.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best English courses in New Zealand, visa requirements, costs, and tips for making the most of your language-learning journey in this incredible country.

1. Where to study English in New Zealand?

As we already told you, we went to the Worldwide School and we definitely recommend it! The school has its main headquarters in Auckland , but you can also study at its schools in Napier, Wellington or Queenstown. Personally, Auckland seemed like a perfect city to us, it is dynamic, not too touristy (for whatever reason, it doesn't have the reputation of being pretty), although with lots of things to do , it boasts restaurants of all kinds ( and for all budgets ), and a very fun nightlife!

Queenstown is our second destination on the list, a small city but in an idyllic setting, perfect for lovers of outdoor activities and extreme sports. But be careful because the coldest months (March to October) are harsher than in Auckland.

The last place in the top 3 would go to Wellington , the capital of New Zealand. Despite this, it is a medium-sized city, quite calm and pleasant. It has a reputation for having a cool nightlife, although the wind is a drawback (they call it the Windy Welly).

And you know what? There is a program, the combo school (from 4 to more than 12 weeks) that will allow you to study in 2 or 4 locations, so, in addition to learning English, you will be able to visit different places!

2. How to go study English in New Zealand ?

You will need to get a student visa . But don't worry: it's not complicated, especially because, although it may sound absurd (for us it still is), the best way to do it is through an agency . Why? Because, as we were able to see, the prices of the courses are usually cheaper through an agency than directly contracted with the schools.

Each country has agencies that can provide you with advice. If you want information about the “Worldwide School” we will leave you the contact information for the part that covers the countries of Latin America and Spain and speaks Spanish: spanish@worldwideschool.nz

→ For more information about this visa you can also consult this page: www.immigration.govt.nz

You can find the rest of the preparations for living in New Zealand on specialized blogs. We already told you about several tips. Take a look at all our articles about New Zealand.

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3. When to study English in New Zealand?

You can apply for your visa throughout the year, but our advice is to take advantage of New Zealand's summer months (September to February). Being a fairly long country (1,600km from north to south), the climate is very different in its different areas. Here are the average climate data throughout the year for Auckland and Queenstown:

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4. Why study English in New Zealand?

Because English is essential nowadays. At school you will overcome your first fears of speaking English. By meeting people who are also learning it, you will be one of them, so you don't have to hide from pronunciation mistakes or from not knowing how to express an idea. Because it is a unique experience that will allow you to learn English and meet lots of people.

We'll also tell you a secret: did you know that with a student visa you can work and earn some money to continue your travels? Obviously it's not the WHV, but if you run out of it and want to learn English, the student visa is a perfect solution. You can work up to 20 hours a week and combine your studies with work experience. In fact, in many English schools there offer special courses to learn jobs such as waiter, in which they teach you a the terminology of the sector, and even how to make coffee or wait tables.

5. What will my life be like during the course?

Depending on the course you have chosen, you will have a certain number of hours of class per day. First of all, you will be given a fairly effective level test . Based on the results, you will be assigned to a class. We were in different classes (this way they make sure you socialize and don't always stay with the same people), there were 8 or 10 of us in total, so the classes were super fluid.

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