There are many reasons why you should study at an English School in Auckland.
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, a modern multicultural hub that has been ranked as offering one of the best lifestyles in the world. And it is not difficult to see why – the city is a stone’s throw from virtually every variation of landscape and activity New Zealand has to offer, making it the perfect destination to study english.
The citizens of Auckland have their roots in New Zealand, Polynesia, Europe and Asia, infusing the city’s many restaurants, markets and museums with global flavours, sounds, sights and textures. One-third of New Zealand’s population call Auckland home, and, as one of the least densely populated cities in the world, Auckland holds the perfect mix of urban buzz and friendly, small-town ambience.
The city is uniquely flanked by the shallow Manukau Harbour, which connects to the Tasman Sea, and the deeper and more central Waitemata Harbour, which connects to the Pacific Ocean. The impressive waterfront was refurbished for the 2002/2003 America’s World Cup, one of the world’s most renowned annual yachting events, and is now a hub of busy waterfront restaurants and cafes. The yachting fever remains strong in Auckland, which is famously known as the ‘City of Sails’ for the brightly coloured sails that decorate the Hauraki Gulf.
Auckland is spread over a large, fragmented area with over 50 islands dotting its waterways. Rangitoto Island, a landmass formed by a volcanic explosion 600 years ago, and the beautiful Waiheke Island are two favourites that can be easily visited by ferry from the mainland. This is a great way to experience Auckland from the water and many visitors are lucky enough to spot dolphins frolicking in the waves.
Another natural beauty of the Auckland region is the dramatic volcanic landscape surrounding the city. The impressive views offered by the summits of Maungawhau/Mt Eden and Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill are readily accessible, and the lush rainforests covering the nearby Waitakere and Hunua Ranges have some of the best bushwalking trails on the North Island.
For those interested in learning more about the history of Auckland and New Zealand, the Auckland War Memorial Museum is home to the largest collection of Maori artefacts in the world. Regular dance and costume displays add to the richness of this cultural experience, as well as exhibitions focusing on the early history of colonial New Zealand and the country’s involvement in 20th Century conflict.
The bustling inner-city of Auckland is dwarfed by the distinct shadow of the Sky Tower – the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. Daredevils are drawn from all over the world for the thrilling 192 metre base-jump from the top of the tower. The less daring might prefer to walk around the observation deck or enjoy a meal with a spectacular view from the tower-top restaurants.
