Are you a nursing or pharmacy student looking to broaden your horizons and gain a unique educational experience? Look no further than our study abroad program, which will take you to some of the most culturally rich and historically significant cities in Oceania. Join us as we explore New Zealand, immersing ourselves in the local cultures and learning from experts in the field. This program is the perfect opportunity to expand your knowledge, build your resume, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Study Abroad Itinerary
Welcome to New Zealand!
On arrival at Auckland International Airport and after completion of customs formalities, you will be met by your New Zealand guide and board the coach for our transfer to the hotel.
Known as the 'City of Sails', Auckland city extends over a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean, and the Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea. Auckland has spectacular natural features, including 49 dormant volcanoes. This cosmopolitan city has a population of around 1.4 million and the city’s subtropical climate, lush vegetation and easy access to the coast and outdoor activities consistently earns it a place in the top five rankings in international lifestyle surveys.
A melting pot of 190 different ethnicities, Auckland is the world’s biggest Polynesian city. This diversity is reflected in the lively arts and culture scene, a wide range of food and craft markets, vineyards, a hip cafe culture and outstanding restaurants. The dozens of islands of the Hauraki Gulf form a distinctive aspect of the Auckland landscape and provide a magnet for boaties, fishing enthusiasts and hikers.
Time permitting today, we will have a brief sightseeing tour of Auckland. Highlights include the bustling downtown and waterfront areas and points of historic interest. Visit Mount Eden, an extinct volcano, for a 360-degree panoramic view of this sprawling city. Descend through the graceful Domain to Auckland's War Memorial Museum which houses one of the world’s finest collections of Maori artifacts. Pass through quaint Parnell Village and affluent residential suburbs, then follow Tamaki Drive along the waterfront and visit the pretty North Shore via the Harbour Bridge.
Lunch – Java House, Parnell
After lunch, we will check-in at the hotel. Time to relax and freshen up before an easy dinner is included at the hotel’s beautiful restaurant – Esther.
Accommodation at QT Auckland
QT King for 3 Nights
In: Monday 26 May 2025 Out: Thursday 29 May 2025
Includes: 3 x Full Breakfast per person
Taking its dramatic style notes from nature and the sparkling harbour, this hotel puts delicious touches on every agenda. Centrally located just a short walk from Viaduct Harbour, Victoria Park and the waterfront dining precinct of Wynyard Quarter. Sip pretty at the rooftop bar, or recharge in one of the hotel’s luxurious rooms or suites. Discovery awaits, as textures and hues mix to celebrate the local surrounds, complete with plush furniture, sleek bathrooms and all the creature comforts.
Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, it is a short walk (5 minutes) along the waterfront to take the Ferry service to Waiheke Island for our day trip.
Ferry Service Auckland to Waiheke Island - Reserved Departure Time, Return
Full Day Private Group Scenic and Wine Tour
Includes: Guided tour of Waiheke Island, tastings at 2 vineyards, 2 course vineyard lunch with 1 glass of wine.
A private tour of the Island accompanied a local guide includes a visit to Oneroa Village and wine tastings at two boutique vineyards (a vineyard can also be swapped with an olive oil mill on request). After touring the Island sit back and relax with a two-course vineyard lunch including a glass of wine/beer or non-alcoholic beverage.
After our return from Waiheke Island in the afternoon will have free time to relax or shop before dinner.
Dinner at Harbourside Bar & Grill
Harbourside Ocean Bar Grill is an institution in Auckland’s restaurant scene and first opened in 1988. Seafood reigns on the menu complimented with premium beef, lamb, venison, duck and vegetarian dishes to suit all our guests’ appetites. Maintaining a supply chain that allows them to provide the freshest, sustainable, and most local seafood New Zealand has to offer from the ocean to the plate. Centrally located on Auckland’s CBD waterfront and boasting an all-weather covered deck right on the water with harbour views.
Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, begin site visits at Univeristy of Auckland - School of Medicine and Health Sciences. We will visit both the pharmacy and nursing schools at the Univeristy.
Lunch – Sky City Orbit Restaurant including Observation Deck
Soaring high above Auckland you'll discover Orbit, a truly iconic New Zealand brasserie situated at the top of Auckland's Sky Tower. The dining room rotates once every hour, providing a unique experience with amazing 360° panoramas of the city, the Hauraki Gulf and beyond. Orbit offers a modern dining experience in a relaxed, open atmosphere with a delicious kiwi-inspired menu.
The afternoon will be clinic and hospital visits.
This evening, we will walk the short distance – 6 minutes – to Soul Bar & Bistro for dinner.
Dinner – Soul Bar & Bistro
Soul is in the heart of Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour. The bistro prides itself on its use of the finest, freshest local ingredients and, as may be expected from its location, Soul has an emphasis on seafood. Its elegant all-weather terrace faces west to catch the spectacular sunsets, views out across the water that take in America’s Cup boats, super yachts, water taxis and even fishing boats.
Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out.
Journey Auckland to Waitomo Caves
(195 kms/121 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Departing the City of Sails, we will head via the southern motorway and cross the Bombay Hills, before descending into the fertile Waikato Plains. You will pass the small town of Pokeno, infamously known as 'the ice-cream capital of New Zealand' due to the small dairy who stack ice-cream cones 5 or 6 scoops high! Further into the drive you will come alongside New Zealand's longest river - the Waikato River. Keep an eye out for Mount Pirongia as you head further South - an extinct volcano and Waikato's highest peak. You may like to stop off in a town further down the track, the 'Kiwiana Town', formally known as Otorohanga. The town displays explain some of the country;' most significant cultural icons - the Pavlova (yes this is a Kiwi thing even though the Aussies may think differently!), Silver Fern, Edmonds Cookbook and the famous Kiwi Bird. Otorohanga is the gateway to the Waitomo Caves area.
Hamilton/Waikato Region
Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
The Waitomo glowworm, Arachnocampa luminosa, is unique to New Zealand. Thousands of these tiny creatures radiate their unmistakable luminescent light as our expert guides provide informative commentary on the Caves historical and geological significance. Over the 45 minute guided tour, take in the spectacular Glowworm Cave with its majestic and ornate cave decorations, the deep limestone shaft known as the Tomo and the equally magnificent Cathedral cavern where New Zealands own opera diva Kiri Te Kanawa once performed. The guide will deliver an informative and entertaining commentary, sharing stories, cultural legends and the natural wonders of this living masterpiece. Conclude the visit with a brief, yet remarkably moving, boat trip through the Glowworm Grotto.
Journey Waitomo to Hobbiton Movie Set, near Matamata
(99 kms/62 miles - 1.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Depart the magical Waitomo Caves area and begin the drive to Middle-Earth. First, you will pass through the small town of Otorohanga, or more commonly known as the 'Kiwiana Town', before delving into the countryside. Shortly after the small township of Kihikihi you will arrive to the majestic tree-lined town that sits at the heart of New Zealand's rural heartland - Cambridge. Cambridge is blessed with trees, parks and gardens that provide a stunning palette of colours as the seasons change. Leaving Cambridge, you will head onto the final part of the Thermal Explorer Highway where Lake Karapiro is situated. Just a short detour here will take you to the head of the lake to enjoy some beautiful lake views. As you get closer to Hobbiton you will find yourself driving through the rolling green hills of Alexander Farm which set the amazing scene of the Middle-Earth village.
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Includes: 1 x Lunch per person
The Party Marquee is adjacent to The Green Dragon™ Inn with an exquisite view across the water. The painted canvas exterior, vibrant bunting and colourful lanterns means visitors are immersed in the festive magic of the movies. Your lunch is served buffet style from a specially themed table, bursting with hobbit fare, with shared table seating to dine family style with your group (and others on your tour departure) to conclude your Middle-earth adventure.
After lunch, embark on your 2.5 hour tour. Experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey through the rolling green hills on your way to the Movie Set. Your guide will then escort you around the 12-acre set, showing the intricate detailing, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how the movie magic was made. You will be fully guided on a walking tour through the Shire, journey past Bag End, explore the inside of our newly completed Hobbit Hole™ on Bagshot Row and into the world-famous Green Dragon™ Inn, where you will be presented with a complimentary, exclusive Hobbit™ Southfarthing™ beverage to conclude your own Middle-earth adventure.
Journey Hobbiton to Rotorua
(72 kms/44 miles - 1 hour’s non-stop drive time)
We say Goodbye to Middle-Earth and leave the rolling hills of Alexander Farm to the Thermal Wonderland of Rotorua. As you arrive into Rotorua, or otherwise known as 'The Sulphur City', you will start to take in the smell of the rather unique pungent aroma of Sulphur. Welcome to Rotorua!
Rotorua
Check-in at our hotel before enjoying dinner this evening.
Hangi Buffet Dinner – Te Puia Rotorua
Te Puia's world-famous hāngī buffet dinner is served in Pātaka Kai Restaurant, Bar & Café. Beverages are at own cost.
Accommodation at Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
City View Twin Room for 2 Nights
In: Thursday 29 May 2025 Out: Saturday 31 May 2025
Includes: 2 x Full Breakfast per person
Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Rotorua, this hotel offers tranquil surroundings and lake views. Just steps from Eat Streat bars and restaurants also only a short walk from the awe-inspiring lakefront, the hotel is in the heart of the cultural and geothermal marvel that is Rotorua. Rejuvenate in the spa's natural geothermal mineral pools.
Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, we will depart for today’s sightseeing in the local area.
Whakarewarewa Thermal Village - Private Guided
Includes: 1 x Hangi Pie Meal per person Cultural Performance
Entrance fee to Whakarewarewa Living Maori Village, Geothermal Trail and private guide.
This 2-hour tour is the legacy guided village experience and home of the Tūhourangi Ngāti Wāhiao people, who have shared their unique way of life and stories with visitors from all around the world for over two hundred years. Enjoy the warmth and manaakitanga (hospitality), experience the amazement of nature’s boiling mud and hot spring pools including viewing the world famous Pohutu Geyser safely from two viewing platforms. This leisurely walk provides exclusive access to untouched geothermal landscapes where visitors can experience the raw nature of Papatuanuku (mother-earth). This is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Included in your guided tour is an opportunity to try a piece of corn on the cob enjoying the unique taste of Kai (food) cooked in Whakarewarewa's largest hot pool.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes and a camera.
Time permitting, we will also visit a jade carving studio today.
Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa - Hosted Restorative Journey - 2.5 hours
Includes: Personal host (greeted on entrance) 2 hour wellness journey, locker, towel, robe, slippers, complimentary duffel bag, herbal tea, complimentary gift.
The wellness journey begins with a karakia (prayer) before changing in the private changing rooms. Next is Te Iringa – step through 4 sequential cleansing shower/mist jets, on to Te Ahi Tupua (Fire & Ice) consisting of 3 saunas (Bio sauna, Himalayan salt sauna, Hay sauna), a wade pool for cooling the body after each sauna and the frigidarium room (shaved ice and two ice cold buckets) for stimulation and revitalisaton. Up next is the bathing experience overlooking Lake Rotorua to Mokoia Island. There are 5 pools to enjoy two mineral pool s at 37 40 C, a cold water plunge at 12 C (improve circulation and restore tired muscles), the herbal pool at 37 38 C (surrounded by indigenous kawakawa and koromiko plants, to provide aromatherapy benefits and support and the hydrotherapy pool at 34 C (with massaging jets). Follow this with Papatūānuku - using the restorative powers of mud to self-apply to the body on heated stone beds. Afterwards is Kohu Wai Ariki - a heated steam room to soften and wash away the mud. Your journey ends with a closing karakia (prayer) before final shower/changing.
What to Bring: Swimwear, drink bottle, flip flops/sandals.
After our visit to Wai Ariki, return to the hotel to freshen up before dinner.
Skyline Rotorua - Gondola & Buffet Dinner
Includes: Gondola ride and buffet dinner.
The Skyline Rotorua complex is situated just minutes from central Rotorua, high up Mt Ngongotaha. To begin your Skyline Rotorua adventure, take a leisurely uphill Gondola ride and enjoy the extensive views of Rotorua, the surrounding lakes and geothermal areas. At the top, a relaxing buffet dinner awaits you.
After breakfast this morning, board the coach for the transfer to Rotorua Airport and our flight to Queenstown.
Flight Domestic Rotorua – Queenstown (Economy)
Operated by Air New Zealand
Depart Rotorua and arrive in Queenstown
Queenstown
Upon arrival board the coach for our transfer to Te Anau.
Journey Queenstown to Te Anau
(170 kms/105 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
Today, leave the picturesque resort town of Queenstown to the gateway of the Fiords, Te Anau. The first part of your journey will skirt Lake Wakatipu in the shadow of the rugged Remarkable Ranges until you arrive in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here, we continue on through to Mossburn and into the tussock covered hills. Once the highest point is reached there are magnificent views of the mountains of Fiordland to the north, south and west. After a few miles the wide panorama of Lake Te Anau comes into view.
Te Anau/Fiordland
The name Te Anau is probably more correctly rendered in its original Maori form - Te Ana-au - which means 'Cave of the Swirling Water'. Beautifully located on the shores of the South Island’s largest lake, Lake Te Anau, and with the majestic Southern Alps panorama as a backdrop, the small town is a haven for outdoor and nature enthusiasts. It is considered the gateway to Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, as well as some of New Zealand’s best hiking tracks, such as the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn Tracks.
Check-in at the hotel and time at leisure. Dinner will be at the hotel.
Accommodation at Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
Run of House Room for 2 Nights
In: Saturday, 31 May 2025 Out: Monday 02 Jun 2025
Includes: 2 x Full Breakfast per person and 2 x 3 Course TDH Dinner per person
Surrounded by extensive, colourful gardens and overlooking spectacular Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland ranges, this hotel and villa accommodation sets the tone for your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking regions. Ideally located on the Te Anau lake front and just a short stroll from the Te Anau town centre. Designed for your comfort, there are 112 luxurious rooms, including standard hotel rooms, spacious villa suites, comfortable villa rooms, and deluxe suites, offering a breathtaking lake or garden view.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Full Day Milford Sound Coach, Cruise & Walks
Embark on our 7-hour tour. From Te Anau travel along the spectacular Milford Road with local, experienced nature guides/drivers, eager to share their stories, knowledge, and passion for the area, bringing the mysteries of Fiordland to life.
At Milford Sound join a 2-hour, small boat cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The cruise provides excellent indoor and outdoor viewing opportunities to see the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife around the fiord. Discover more with our in-depth overland tour. The local guide will share a series of walks and scenic sights in a range of different natural environments, while providing fascinating interpretation of the unique, native flora and fauna.
Our National Park concession allows us to access Gertrude Valley, Lake Gunn, and Marian Gantry, alongside the more traditional stops of Mirror Lakes, and The Chasm. We tailor the day to the weather, seasonal highlights and get off the beaten path to ensure the best day out. The walks included in the day will vary in length from 5-30 minutes and are suitable for all abilities and ages.
What to bring: Comfortable walking boots/shoes, waterproof jacket, warm clothing, including thermal hat and gloves, sunhat and sunglasses, insect repellent, and water bottle.
Remote, mysterious and uniquely New Zealand, Milford Sound is a spectacular reminder of the forces of nature that shaped this land. Formed thousands of years ago during the ice ages, Milford Sound is the northernmost fiord in Fiordland National Park and is, without doubt, the most dramatic. Here in this place of unparalleled beauty, you will find cascading waterfalls, luxuriant forests and the towering pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising one full mile to the sky. No matter what the fiord's mood, shrouded in mist or with sun glistening on deep waters, it will inspire you.
Walks in the Milford area:
On return from Milford, we will visit the very quaint Fiordland Cinema to watch the short film Atu Whenua – Shadowland.
Fiordland on Film "Ata Whenua - Shadowland" Single Combo
Includes: One drink and a short film.
Ata Whenua – Shadowland brings you the Fiordland World Heritage Status Wilderness you would otherwise never see. Mysterious, evocative, exhilarating and utterly spectacular, filmed across extremes of season, climate and terrain, it will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth (32 mins).
Dinner is included at the hotel this evening.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Journey Te Anau to Queenstown
(171 kms/106 miles - 2.5 hours non-stop drive time)
After breakfast we will depart beautiful Lake Te Anau and take the scenic drive to Queenstown. The drive features trout fishing rivers and high-country scenery and there are plenty of places to stop to soak it all in. The small towns of Mossburn and Lumsden can be explored for unique shopping opportunities—a farm tour is another possibility.
We will stop in the Gibbston Valley for wine tasting and lunch en route to Queenstown.
Queenstown
Wine Tasting & Platter Lunch – Kinross Cottages
Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a year-round alpine resort nestled in a magnificent setting amid steep mountain ranges and pockets of native bush with the jagged peaks of the Remarkables Range rising from the lake. The town is compact enough to travel around on foot and features a great range of restaurants, bars and boutique stores. The lake was created by glacial action thousands of years ago and a mysterious phenomenon causes the lake to vary several inches in depth every few minutes, giving credence to a Maori legend of an ancient Taniwha (demon) still breathing beneath the surface.
Check-in at the hotel and time to freshen up before dinner.
Earnslaw Walter Peak Evening Gourmet Barbecue Dinner
Embark on this 4-hour tour. Step aboard the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy a 40-minute cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Onboard, the Captain provides an interesting commentary as you take in the spectacular views of Cecil and Walter Peaks and the western shores of Lake Wakatipu. The original steam engines can be seen in operation from the open viewing area and you are welcome to visit the Fo’c’cle Gallery to view the historic displays. Disembark the TSS Earnslaw at Walter Peak where they are escorted through the lakeside gardens to the recently refurbished Colonel’s Homestead and seated for dinner. Relax in the unique ambience in front of a roaring open fire and soak in the views from this stunning lakeside setting while the chefs prepare a gourmet BBQ on the grill. There’s a selection of succulent New Zealand meat and seafood accompanied by delectable seasonal salads, tasty dessert treats and local cheeses. All meat and seafood is cooked on the BBQ and rotisserie in front of guests. A locally influenced wine list and other beverages are available to purchase at the bar. After the meal join an entertaining farm experience which gives an insight into life in the New Zealand high country including a sheep shearing demonstration. The night-time cruise home is magical. Join in the camaraderie of a sing-a-long with the ship’s pianist.
What to bring: Comfortable shoes, waterproof jacket, warm clothing and a camera.
Accommodation at Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Standard Rooms for 2 Nights
In: Monday 02 Jun 2025 Out: Wednesday 04 Jun 2025
Includes: 2 x Full Breakfast per person
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this Queenstown hotel is centrally located just one minute from many shops, restaurants, nightlife and activities. Step outside your door and into the heart of Queenstown with easy access to all that this premier lake and alpine resort has to offer. The contemporary rooms offer a selection of spectacular alpine, garden and lake views. Each air-conditioned room features a private balcony.
Breakfast at the hotel this morning.
After breakfast, we will depart to Glenorchy a most gorgeous and scenic picture-postcard area.
Glenorchy is a true slice of New Zealand paradise. The 45-minute scenic drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu is a highlight in itself. Glenorchy is located at the northern end of the lake and at the edge of both Mount Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks. It is surrounded by snow-capped Mountains, pristine lakes and rivers and beech forest and has provided the backdrop for many films including The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and Narnia. The surrounding area is a true mecca for outdoor lovers to explore by jet boat, canoe or kayak, or even on a horseback. Grab your hiking boots for one of many spectacular walking tracks including one of New Zealand's Great Walks, the popular Routeburn Track.
At Glenorchy we embark on an exhilarating Jet boat ride!
Half Day Wilderness Safari - Jetboat
Discover and explore every aspect of this magnificent area with an exciting wilderness jet boating experience. Surrounded by breathtaking snow-covered peaks, hidden valleys, waterfalls and glacial valleys frozen in time, you’ll be thrilled by an exciting jet boat journey navigating the ever-changing shallow channels of the Dart Rivers braided river system. Your jet boat driver will stop along the way to highlight points of interest and discuss the natural and cultural significance of this exceptional area. We’ll also take the chance to tie up the boat and let you walk amongst the ancient beech tree forests – an atmosphere you may recognize from The Lord of the Rings films.
Please note: Life / spray jackets are provided.
What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, warm outer layer, supportive footwear, small bag, carried at own risk, camera, carried at own risk.
Stops can be made (time permitting) at Mrs Woolly’s General Store or Franks Corner Artisan in Glenorchy.
Return to the hotel to freshen up for the final group dinner.
Blue Kanu – Share style Banquet Dinner
After breakfast, depart the hotel by coach to Queenstown Airport where we will take a short flight back to Auckland. We will then board the international flight departing Auckland at 7:40pm and arriving in Houston via direct flight at 4:25pm the same day.
Hotels Envisaged
| Dates | City | Hotel |
| May 26-29 | Auckland | QT Auckland |
| May 29-31 | Rotorua | Novotel Rotorua Lakeside |
| May 31- June 2 | Te Anau | Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas |
| June 2-4 June | Queenstown | Novotel Queenstown Lakeside |