New Zealand by Sydney McDaniel
Your Identity in New Zealand
Below you will find information that may help you in planning for your Education Abroad experience. We know it’s not possible to encompass all of your intersecting identities into one page, but we hope the resources listed can serve as a helpful starting point. You are your own best expert. We invite you to meet with your Program Manager or contact our Access and Inclusion Coordinator at inclusionabroad@colorado.edu to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
Disability Accommodations
Individuals with disabilities can and do participate in Education Abroad programs, but you may find accessibility and accommodation in different locations to be very different from the United States. For example, in New Zealand, anticipate being a pedestrian and/or taking public transport more frequently than you may be accustomed to at CU. While every student’s experience is unique, check out our Disability or Different Abilities while Abroad page for general information, questions to consider, and next steps for studying abroad with a disability and click through the list below for resources relevant to New Zealand and your host university.
Resources for New Zealand
External Resources
- U.S Dept. of State (see Local Laws & Special Circumstances)
- MIUSA promotes disability rights leadership with study abroad advice
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)
The UC Disability Resource Service (DRS) operates in a similar manner to Disability Services here. They arrange learning access support for students who have a medical condition, injury, illness or disability that impacts their ability to study. In order to register you must provide a pertinent, comprehensive report expressing an appropriate professional's opinion of your disability/medical condition and its possible impacts on your study so we can develop a support plan with you.
With CU: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Health & Wellness Worksheet on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you.
With UC: There are a couple of ways to begin the registration process for disability study supports:
- Visit, phone or email the Disability Resource Service and ask for an information pack
OR - Book an appointment with the Accessibility Team and be prepared to send your medical evidence (and any other pertinent information) to them at least 48 hours before your appointment
With CU: In order that arrangements can be determined and organized, submit the Medical & Disability Needs Abroad form on your MyCUAbroad checklist and a get letter from CU’s Disability Services that documents your condition and needs and the support that they provide for you.
With Otago: Contact Otago's Disability Information & Support office for information on how to arrange support:
- Location: Information Services Building
- Phone: (03) 479 8235
- Email: disabilities@otago.ac.nz
Gender & Gender Identity
You may find that the level of acceptance differs between New Zealand and the United States. In New Zealand, attitudes towards gender identity are generally inclusive and accepting, with efforts being made to promote equality and respect for diverse gender identities. It's essential to seek local resources and support networks that cater to your specific needs and location. Check out our Gender & Gender Identity resource page, which provides a list of questions, tips, and general resources. Additionally, you can find specific resources related to New Zealand and your host university by clicking through the list below.
Resources for New Zealand
External Resources
- Health New Zealand
- U.S Dept. of State (see Local Laws & Special Circumstances)
- Equaldex's LGBT Rights
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)
Sexual Orientation & Sexuality
Acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community can vary by culture, and you may find your host culture more or less welcoming of your sexual orientation than what you experience in the U.S. New Zealand has made significant progress in recognizing and protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2013, New Zealand became the 13th country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. In general, New Zealand is considered a leader in LBBTQ+ rights. While everyone’s experience is unique to them, check out our Sexual Orientation & Sexuality resource page for a list of questions, tips, and general resources to explore. Click through the list below for resources specific to New Zealand.
Resources for New Zealand
External Resources
- U.S Dept. of State (see Local Laws & Special Circumstances)
- Equaldex's LGBT Rights
- Queer in the World
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)
Racial & Ethnic Identity
Students of different ethnic and racial backgrounds may encounter unique challenges transitioning from life in the U.S. to life as a student living abroad. This experience can vary based on your race/ethnicity as well as your host community. One of the most unique parts of New Zealand is the centering of Maori (the Indigenous people of New Zealand/Aotearoa) culture. For example, Maori is an official language of New Zealand, and Maori Language Day is celebrated annually on September 14. However, New Zealand is a predominately white country. Students of color may also see a lack of representation and experience microaggressions. While everyone has different experiences, our Racial & Ethnic Identities Abroad page provides general resources to help you prepare for your time abroad. Check it out in addition to the resources below, specific to studying in New Zealand.
Resources for New Zealand
Host University Resources (for exchange programs only)
Socioeconomic Status
U.S. students are generally perceived as coming from wealth, which is due to how Americans are typically portrayed in media. If you do not feel that this perception matches your identity, this may be a jarring experience at first. See the Budgeting page of our Accepted Student Guide for tips on lowering your personal expenses while abroad.
Resources for New Zealand
Resources for Families
Do your parents, family, or support systems have concerns about you studying abroad? Have them contact our office to speak to a Program Manager, who can provide further information, address concerns, connect them with additional resources, and refer them to our Diversity & Identity Abroad page.
Education Abroad is committed to serving a culturally diverse community of students and is dedicated to providing inclusive international experiences for students from all backgrounds. Please contact our Access and Inclusion Coordinator at inclusionabroad@colorado.edu with any questions or concerns.