New Zealand, located 42 degrees below the equator which also happens to be the point where the global,

New Zealand, the land with abundant sheep that is comparable with the population of Singapore, frighteningly powerful rugby teams and apparently Middle Earth is simply awesome! Going to New Zealand alone is the most courageous thing I ever did and the initial stages were filled with apprehensions but all worries were gone once I touched down in Auckland International Airport. The sights from the plane was simply magnificent! No doubt that the movie, “Lord of The Rings” was mostly filmed here. I met up with the University pick up service which would be provided for all first time international students to University of Auckland (UoA). Though preparations for my exchange to UoA were tedious and frustrating at times, but as I look back now, it was all worth it! The experiences and things that I have learnt were invaluable and memorable. The things that need to be prepared are: bank statements, student visa, accommodation, air ticket and travel insurance. I stayed at a privately managed apartment, Princeton, which is located right beside the Department of Property. I have to comment that the rental rates for apartments/hostels are really high in Auckland City! The only disadvantage about staying in Princeton is that it does not organize any official functions or events like a University managed Halls of Residence. Nevertheless, it has good facilities such as each apartment comes with a well- equipped kitchen and there is also room cleaning service ...