Study Abroad in Wellington: Beyond the Classroom

Learning does not begin or end in the classroom. To help you get a true taste of New Zealand and Fijian culture, a wealth of cultural activities and excursions are included in your program fee.

Famous for its palm-fringed white sandy beaches and clear azure seas, Fiji is paradise come true. Cultural roots and traditions are strong in Fiji, and the population is an eclectic blend of indigenous Fijians and Indo-Fijians. English is the official language, and visitors will find themselves greeted by a welcoming shout of “bula!”

Suva, located at the south-eastern corner of Fiji’s largest island, Viti Levu, is Fiji’s capital city and the largest city in the South Pacific, with a population of 170,000. Once a flourishing colonial center, sights include fine historic buildings, rusting shipwrecks on the reef, the old cemetery with its Chinese area and a lively fish market.

Explore Fiji on several included field trips to local attractions including:

  • Beachcomber Island
  • Hindu Temple
  • Kula Bird Park

Wellington has a range of outdoor and cultural activities that are easily accessible to its residents. You can hike or mountain bike through the hilly bush areas that surround the city, surf at the southern beaches, attend the sporting events at the Sports Stadium a short walk from the city center, or visit the many theaters and museums in the city. There is always something going on in Wellington, with a variety of festivals and sporting events visiting the city each year.

From Wellington you can access a diverse range of places on both the North and South Islands including:

  • South Island – 3 hours south by ferry
  • Skiing and volcano trekking – 4 hours north by car or bus
  • Wairarapa vineyards – 1 hour north by car or train/bus
  • Kapiti Coast – 1 hour north-west by car or train