Beaches, Caves, Hobbit Homes and More: International Students See NZ Highlights

From the beaches of Cathedral Cove to the tunnels of Nikau Caves, Thames High School international students got up close with uniquely New Zealand sights this November.

The international department hosted these opportunities for international students to gain hands-on learning experiences and see parts of NZ they may otherwise miss. The timing coincides with study days and exams, which many international students will complete in their home country.

This year’s activities included visits to the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre and nearby Martha Mine, a ride on the Hauraki Rail Trail from Waihi to Paeroa, a wiggle through the tunnels of Nikau Caves, coveted photo opportunities at Hobbiton, a ride on Coromandel’s Driving Creek Railway, a walk to Cathedral Cove, a chance to play paintball and a visit to the Auckland Museum. The favourites? Nikau Caves and Hobbiton, said International Support Coordinator Pauline Whittle. These experiences are exhilarating and memorable, she said, and for many students are very simply a New Zealand dream come true.