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New Zealands largest city has an idyllic setting, overlooking the forested Waitakere Ranges, sheltered Manukau Harbour and the island studded Hauraki Gulf to the north. No wonder over a million people choose to live there and enjoy the benefits of nature on the doorstep.
Beautiful beaches and dreamy offshore islands are just half an hour from the city. In fact the sea is so much a part of the place that an unusually high number of people own their own boat giving the city its name of City of Sails.
2002 saw Auckland again hosting one of the worlds greatest yachting events. The Americas Cup and the city now have its own Americas Cup Village to explore. But, you dont have to be a yachted to appreciate what Auckland and its surrounds have to offer.
The most cosmopolitan of New Zealands cities, one fifth of Aucklands one million inhabitants are of Polynesian descent. A fusion of traditions produces a vibrant urban culture that is both easy going and sophisticated. Its lively calendar of events stem from a people with a love of life and celebration with February the top month for festivals, when no fewer than four take place.
Aucklands bustling shopping district, chic waterfront bars and restaurants are as much a part of things as the lovingly restored clapboard villas in the leafy inner suburbs of Ponsonby and Parnell. Theres plenty to see and do too visit the Auckland Museum with its impressive collection of Maori artefacts and Kelly Tarltons Antarctic Encounter and Underwater World, a unique attraction. Take the lift up Aucklands Sky Tower for an inspiring view of the city and its stunning surrounds, which beckon those with time to explore further a field.
For those with limited time Auckland is a wise choice for a short stay, not only for the range of accommodation and excursions on offer, but because the major sites of the Bay of Islands and Rotorua can be visited in a day trip from the city.
Experience this fun adventure under, through and over Aucklands Harbour Bridge. Take in the magnificent views whilst experiencing the inner workings of this dynamic structure. Minimum age 10 years. Suitable for all fitness levels.
A great way to experience Aucklands key attractions visit Kelly Tarltons and the Sky Tower plus a coffee cruise in the harbour aboard a Pride of Auckland sailing boat and the Native NZ Encounter Show at the Auckland Zoo.
If you want to find a good English as a second language school in Auckland, New Zealand there are some important things to consider. It can be difficult to know whether you are selecting a suitable place when you are from overseas. However, there are some important questions you should ask any school you are thinking of attending.
1. Ask them what sort of qualifications they have.
A fully accredited learning institution will not only have teachers who are specially trained in teaching students such as you, but it will also run courses that are internationally recognised. The courses will have also been approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) which assesses the school and makes sure it is delivering courses to the correct standard.
2. Is the school in a central location?
You want somewhere that is easy to get to. While you’ll be spending a lot of time learning in a classroom, it’s good to be around other things to entertain you such as shops, cafes and nice places to go walking. A central location is easy to get to no matter where you are living in the city. An English as a second language school in Auckland, New Zealand needs to be in the central city rather than in one of the suburbs.
3. Will they help you find a place to live?
Trying to locate a new place to live on top of everything else can increase your stress levels. If the school is prepared to help you find a place, you’ll have more time and energy to focus on your learning. Most establishments will have good contacts with homestay families and can even find one for you. It means you’ll be staying somewhere that has already been checked out and is clean and safe. If you are staying for a longer period and want to get an apartment it is probably still best to begin with a homestay.
4. Do you feel they listen to your requests?
If you email or phone them to find out information do they offer to send you a pack with everything you need and then give you advice or reassurance over the phone to support you? A competent English as a second language school in Auckland, New Zealand will understand the big decisions involved in selecting an education provider to learn and prepare for English exams. They’ll have your best interests at heart.
Aotea Square is the center of the Auckland City and is the principal site where take place open-air concerts and social gatherings. It was opened by Sir Dove-Myer Robinson in 1979 with its name “Aotea” derived from “Motu Aotea” which gives the meaning of “Great Barrier Island”. The area s redesigned in 2000 by Ted Smythe which gives it the current outlook of a perfect arena of musical concerts as well as political rallies.
Aotea Square Market is held every Fri days and Saturdays at “THE EDGE” of Aotea Square and it displays the latest designer fashions, Pacifica arts and crafts, traditional food and many items that relate to the culture of the region. Also the Aotea Square Markets brings every time some exciting live band shows where people enjoy Rock and classical music. It is a great opportunity for new fashion designer to show up their talents and to present their creative designs. And many people who are new to textile trade come to the Aotea Square Markets in order to put their items on sale and the place holds a good reputation in buying items at much lower cost than in the high street stores.
Another main feature of the market is its food stalls where one can taste both traditional and funky food items in each stall. Apart from the food items from the native areas, the food items that are sold at t he best rates are considered to be American, and Indian food. Some other major features of the market can be mentioned as Pacific arts and crafts that attract a large number of people who are interested in handicrafts and other hand-made artistic articles along with traditional Maori carvings.
The main feature relevant to Aotea Square, “THE EDGE” comprises with three main structures as The Civic, Aotea Centre and Auckland Town Hall and it is the main facilitator for performing arts, public conventions and also for entertainment events in the area. THE EDGE®” is being administered by The Aotea Centre Board of Management which is responsible for every event that takes place in Aotea Square and in the entire city.
Apart from that, the city holds a good reputation for its high-class hospitality services along with outstanding hotels in Auckland which exemplifies the most prominent and leading hotels in Auckland.
If you know you will need to work on your English so you are able to get into an English speaking university, or if you want to improve your competency as part of your long term education goals, then it’s important to find a good English as a second language school. Auckland, New Zealand is an ideal place for students to live and learn the English language as it is a city big enough to have everything you need, but has many beautiful beaches, and outdoor areas to enjoy in the weekend.
Select a school that only teaches students who are not native speakers as then you know they are experienced in helping people just like you over and over again. Teachers need to move at the pace of the students and ensure you can keep up with the material. If you want to select a language course that enables you to develop the level of English you want, while giving you the chance to live in New Zealand’s largest city there are certain factors you should consider.
Is it NZQA approved?
The New Zealand Qualifications Authority is the New Zealand government standard. A school holding this is checked and audited by the NZQA and the standards are checked regularly. It is also good to check if the educational establishment you are looking at is affiliated with a larger network worldwide. This can provide a more secure place to study.
What training do the teachers have?
It’s good to check if the school employ teachers with specific training in teaching non native speakers. Teachers need to be fully certified, especially if they are offering some of the more advanced classes for university entrance exams. As Auckland is a popular spot for international students, there are a wide variety of classes people can take to learn the language. It’s good to check the person teaching you is qualified.
What is the schools focus?
Some classically trained teachers focus on reading and writing, forgoing speaking and listening. Select a school that believes it’s most important to have a balance of all of these in their English as a second language school. Auckland, New Zealand also offers many opportunities to “road test” the lessons you are learning, out and about in everyday life as you catch the bus, shop and enjoy the lifestyle the country is famous for.
Do they help prepare for IELTS or Cambridge?
For many students this is often the biggest concern. Your lessons need to be structured in a specific way to help you prepare for these tests, and educators need to make sure all the criteria is covered in their classes. These exams require a specific course to help you pass.
Auckland, New Zealand is a fabulous place to soak up a bit of the great kiwi lifestyle while you reach your goals. Select a good English as a second language school and make Auckland, New Zealand your home.
Image taken on 2010-03-12 11:48:19 by Sandy Austin.
Image taken on 2009-02-08 15:33:08 by fras1977.
Image taken on 2009-02-08 15:33:08 by fras1977.
A tinge of perfection dabbled with a passion for quintessence and simplicity, is what you’ll meet when in Auckland. With the sparkling waters of the harbours Waitemata and Manukau surrounding the city, and the foliage of the hills, nothing could be more extraordinary than the surroundings of Auckland. Giving off an ideal and picturesque vibe, this town offers shoppers a kaleidoscope of selections to choose from.
The biggest city of New Zealand, which is also pleasantly nick named the “City of Sails”, is home to many attractive sights and sounds. Shopping being one of the favourite attractions can be found all over this quaint city, as malls, boutiques and stores galore.
This hub of style and “oomph” is home to many admirable Kiwi fashion designers. With high-end fashion boutiques and gourmet food hotspots flanking the likes of High Street, Newmarket and Downtown, there is much to take in and take home. Just stroll into one such as Zambesi, Workshop for designer fashions or Elliot Stables for delicious food, and be amazed at the ambience and experience a dash of novelty.
If you are looking for more varied options, the best place to visit would be the great ranges of large shopping malls and outlets that are found dotted all over Auckland. With the likes of Botany Downs, Britomart, the Dress-Smart Factory Outlet, Westfield Mall to Howick Village, K’Road and more, there is much to see and buy.
For those who prefer an outdoor experience, what better place to indulge in shopping adventure than at the handful of outdoor markets such as Otara Markets, Takapuna Market and the Victoria Park Market. With so many choices to offer, Auckland truly presents a jamboree of shopping experiences to locals and visitors alike.
When in Auckland for business or pleasure, make sure to enjoy the delights of shopping at these enchanting locations, whilst taking up comfortable accommodation at a hotel Auckland proudly calls its own, such as Copthorne Hotel Auckland City. This Auckland hotel, situated pristinely atop a beachside cliff, offers guests great vantages points along with comfort and relaxation that is both endearing and charming.
Image taken on 2005-10-25 23:44:57 by Erman Akdogan.
Offering an amazingly unique experience for a highly entertaining day of family fun, the Snowplanet is an all year round indoor snow resort ideal for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the excitement of engaging in popular snow sports and can relax in the snowy village like atmosphere in this wondrous winter wonder land located in Auckland.
A snow loverâs dream, the park features 50 centimeters of real powder snow, 3 lifts, a terrain park and a separate learner area amid other highlights. Streams of tourists come in to engage in the thrill of the terrain park with its wide variety of rainbows, slide bars and jumps that are in place for both beginners and advanced snow sporters. The exciting features of this park will keep you entertained for hours on end. Children will most definitely love playing in the harm free snow that surrounds and covers the place.
Amid all the excitement of snow sporting and fun, you can go up to the Mountain View Café & Bar for a delicious meal or hot drink. The place offers outstanding views of the snowdome and is a great place from which to observe the entertainment taking place below.
Many events are organized at night on a frequent basis at the park for snowboarders where freestyle competitions are held, complete with DJs and all the workings of an exciting night. Even if you are not taking part in the competition, it makes for a highly entertaining event to be watched. For those who do not have snow sporting equipment, a rental shop is available. Additional to this, a snow sport shop and a snow academy are also found on the premises.
Apart from being ideal for families, the place is a popular location among companies where corporate activities such as team building, social club outings, staff functions and client entertaining take place. Whatever the reason maybe, Snowplanet is unique snowy experience thatâs not to be missed.
Visitors looking to stay at one of the Auckland hotels, should consider the luxurious Langham Hotel Auckland which has easy access to this exciting and entertaining snow park, as well as to the rest of the cityâs attractions.
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