Pre-departure Orientation
Pre- Departure Checklists for USA
Pre- Departure Checklists for Australia
Pre- Departure Checklists for Canada
Pre- Departure Checklists for Finland
Pre- Departure Checklists for New Zealand
1. Documentation
Required Documents:
- Passport with a valid student visa.
- Confirmation of Enrollment (COE) or Offer Letter from a New Zealand educational institution.
- Accommodation details (address and confirmation).
- Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statement or financial support proof).
- Health and travel insurance documents.
- Copies of important documents (both digital and hard copies).
2. Travel Preparation
Packing Tips
- Weather-appropriate clothing (New Zealand has varying climates, especially during winters).
- Prescription medications with supporting medical documents.
- Adapter for New Zealand sockets (Type I plugs).
- Personal items like Nepali spices or cultural items for comfort.
Airport and Travel Tips
- Immigration process and presenting required documents.
- Customs rules (strict regulations on carrying food, plants, and animal products).
- Having local New Zealand currency (NZD) for immediate expenses.
3. Financial and Banking Matters
- Opening a New Zealand bank account (necessary for receiving funds and managing finances).
- Using EFTPOS (widely used in New Zealand for cashless transactions).
- Understanding and planning for the cost of living.
- Bringing some NZD for initial expenses.
4. Academic and Campus Life
- Overview of the New Zealand education system:
- Importance of self-directed learning and critical thinking.
- Credit system and grading methods.
- Rules against plagiarism and academic dishonesty.
- Participating in orientation programs and accessing student services.
- Utilizing campus facilities (libraries, health centers, recreation).
5. Accommodation and Transportation
- Types of accommodation:
- On-campus hostels, shared apartments, or homestays.
- Reading and understanding rental agreements.
- Public transportation:
- Using buses, trains, and ferries (e.g., AT HOP cards in Auckland).
- Cycling and walking for short distances.
- Understanding driving rules if planning to drive (need for a valid International Driving Permit).
6. Cultural Adaptation
- Overview of New Zealand culture:
- Multicultural society with a strong Maori influence.
- Friendly and informal communication style.
- Respect for environmental conservation and recycling.
- Tips for overcoming culture shock and making friends.
- Celebrating festivals and exploring New Zealand traditions (e.g., Waitangi Day).
7. Health and Safety
- Accessing healthcare:
- International students must have health and travel insurance.
- Registering with a local doctor or General Practitioner (GP).
- Emergency numbers: 111 for police, fire, and ambulance.
- Mental health resources and stress management tips.
- Staying safe during outdoor activities like hiking or swimming.
8. Legal and Immigration Awareness
- Maintaining your student visa:
- Attending classes regularly and meeting academic requirements.
- Working within the allowed hours (20 hours per week during term, full-time during holidays).
- Rules regarding visa extensions or changes.
- Legal drinking and smoking age (18+).
- Following New Zealand laws and respecting local norms.
9. Employment Guidance
- Finding part-time work:
- Campus job boards and platforms like Seek or Student Job Search.
- Writing a CV/resume in New Zealand format.
- Applying for an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number for work.
- Understanding taxes and the minimum wage.
10. Communication and Networking
- Getting a local mobile number and choosing affordable plans.
- Staying connected through apps and online platforms.
- Joining Nepali and international student groups.
- Networking opportunities through university events and volunteering.
11. Post-Arrival Checklist
- Setting up a local bank account.
- Getting a tax code from the Inland Revenue Department (IRD).
- Registering for healthcare and locating nearby clinics.
- Familiarizing with grocery stores and local markets.
12. Personal Development
- Building skills to balance studies, work, and personal time.
- Participating in extracurricular activities and student organizations.
- Exploring New Zealand’s natural beauty and adventure sports.
13. Emergency Preparedness
- Preparing for natural disasters like earthquakes (New Zealand has a fault line).
- Saving important emergency contacts, including the Nepali Embassy in Canberra, Australia (oversees New Zealand).
- Carrying basic emergency supplies.
Additional Tips
- Learn about Maori culture and phrases like “Kia ora” (hello).
- Stay environmentally conscious (use reusable items, recycle).
- Explore local cuisines and embrace the Kiwi lifestyle.
This orientation ensures that Nepali students are well-prepared to adjust to life in New Zealand, fostering a positive and successful experience.
