Community & Agriculture in New Zealand
- May 9-23, 2027
- Credits: AGR 49300 – 3 credits
- Estimated Cost: $5500 includes accommodation, transportation, entrance fees, some meals, international medical insurance.
- Leaders: Alyssa Powers & TBD
- Callout Powerpoint
Experience the diverse landscapes, agricultural systems, cultures, and communities of Aotearoa New Zealand on this immersive study abroad program. From vibrant Auckland to the South Island communities of Christchurch and Akaroa, students will explore how New Zealand's people interact with its unique natural environment while gaining firsthand insight into agriculture, food production, sustainability, conservation, and Maori culture.
The journey begins in Auckland, where students will experience the city from above at the Sky Tower before exploring urban agriculture and sustainability at Kelmarna Community Farm. A Maori-led cultural immersion provides an introduction to Maori traditions, storytelling, and tikanga, while visits to local food destinations and Waiheke Island offer opportunities to experience New Zealand's food, coastal, and agricultural landscapes.
Traveling south, students will explore the Waitomo region, including the spectacular Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the surrounding rural landscape. A visit to Hobbiton provides another perspective on the Waikato region and its agricultural setting.
In Rotorua, students will examine the connections between agriculture, conservation, culture, and New Zealand's geothermal environment. Experiences include a kiwi conservation and hatchery facility, a kiwifruit orchard, the coastal community of Mount Maunganui, and a guided cultural and ecological experience in the Whirinaki Forest. Students will also have opportunities to experience Rotorua's geothermal landscape and local food culture.
In Taupo, students will investigate innovative approaches to food production and natural resources. Visits include Huka Honey Hive, where students learn about pollinators, sustainable beekeeping, and manuka honey; Huka Prawn Park, a unique geothermal freshwater prawn farm; and Huka Falls. Students will also experience New Zealand's geothermal features and Maori heritage at Wairakei Terraces.
The program continues to Palmerston North, where students will experience New Zealand's agricultural landscape firsthand through a working dairy farm visit. Students will learn about dairy production, observe milking operations, explore farm planting and conservation efforts, and connect agricultural production with New Zealand's rural communities.
In Wellington, students will explore New Zealand's history, culture, science, creativity, and food systems. Highlights include Te Papa National Museum, a Wellington city tour, Weta Workshop, Wellington's Botanic Garden, the historic Cable Car, Cuba Street, and a hands-on chocolate-making experience focused on ethical sourcing and sustainable production.
The journey continues to Christchurch, where students will examine New Zealand's relationship with Antarctica, natural disasters, urban redevelopment, and local food systems. Visits to the International Antarctic Centre and Quake City provide insight into scientific research, environmental challenges, natural disasters, and community resilience. Students will also explore Christchurch's local food culture through Riverside Market and experience the city aboard its historic tram.
The program concludes in Akaroa, a picturesque coastal community on Banks Peninsula known for its Maori and French heritage and unique natural environment. Students will explore the region with a local historian and ecologist before taking a nature cruise to search for Hector's dolphins, one of New Zealand's most distinctive native species.
Throughout the program, students will move beyond traditional sightseeing to experience farms, food producers, conservation facilities, cultural sites, natural environments, and local communities. The result is a comprehensive look at how agriculture, environment, culture, food, and sustainability are interconnected in New Zealand.