Wellington
Wellington, New Zealand
Human Rights
You may be able to combine any of the Service-Learning Experiences below with an ISA Academic Program.
Sex Worker Advocacy Collective
English (Advanced)
With prostitution decriminalized in New Zealand, sex work is treated as an occupational health issue rather than a criminal issue. Independent, highly-motivated service-learning participants will aid the organization's staff with community outreach and education through social media, put together care packages, and may have the opportunity to gain experience in grant proposal writing.
Local Political Campaign
This local political party is the largest consistent third party force in New Zealand politics. Driven by those who believe in protecting the planet and supporting communities, their campaign focuses on fostering good relations with New Zealands' Māori people and working together to fight climate change. Participants in this role may work alongside a variety of staff members depending on their area of interest. Responsibilities may include data management, marketing, fundraising, administrative processing, and voter outreach. *NOTE: This organization may require some work on weekends.
About the Location
New Zealand is a country unlike any other. With warm, peaceful islands in the north to majestic, rugged mountains in the south and any number of variations in between, it is truly a diverse country. The nation is comprised of two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, as well as several smaller islands, all of which are home to singular wildlife, varied cultures, and friendly people. Living in New Zealand offers you opportunities to explore beautiful landscapes, enjoy the friendly hospitality of the New Zealanders, or "Kiwis," and experience a unique country and culture.
Wellington was recently was named "the coolest little capital in the world" by Lonely Planet and with good reason. It’s a compact city with a big personality. Hike Mount Victoria, explore the beachfront, and take a Lord of the Rings tour. There’s always plenty to do and see in this dynamic city.
Situated at the southern end of the North Island on the shores of Cook Strait, Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and home to numerous NGOs and grassroots organizations. ISA Service-Learning has partnered with local organizations in many community service-oriented areas in order to give our students the chance to experience New Zealand from a local perspective.
Wellington
ISA service-learning participants have the opportunity to give back to this vibrant community without having to worry about a language barrier. Participants may choose to serve in one of four sectors: health, human rights, community development, and family and youth development. There are plenty of ways in which participants can help the community grow and thrive: teach classes and workshops at an art therapy center, write grant proposals for an advocacy collective, or create an online presence for many of our budding organizations. During their time abroad, service-learning participants will learn more about the country’s history and culture in Wellington, New Zealand’s artistic and cultural capital.
What's Included
- Comprehensive advising and support
- Pre-departure orientation materials
- Visa support
- The Professional Development Toolbox
- Guaranteed placement with local host organization
- Airport reception from Wellington International Airport
- On-site orientation through the Bridging Cultures Orientation
- Full-time resident staff with a maximum 20:1 student to staff ratio
- On-site ISA office, computer and WiFi internet access
- Housing
- Placement supervision
- Academic supervision
- Academic credit options (additional fee may apply)
- Cultural activities
- Insurance
- 24-hour emergency assistance
- 24-hour on-site support
- Optional excursions (additional fee may apply)
- Project materials stipend
- ISA Service-Learning Portfolio
Academic Credit
Participants looking to earn academic credit for their ISA Service-Learning experience can explore the following options.
Credit From Your Home Institution
Participants may work with their home university to receive academic credit for their program. Each academic institution has a unique policy for granting internship, service-learning and experiential learning credit, thus students should inquire about receiving academic credit with their home university advisors, professors, and/or academic department heads. Many ISA Service-Learning participants have successfully received “Independent Study,” “Internship,” “Directed Studies,” or “Special Topics” credit for their program by presenting their Portfolio.
Transfer Credit from University of South Florida
ISA Service-Learning has partnered with University of South Florida (USF) to offer a U.S. transcript for all ISA Service-Learning programs. Credit awarded will be based on the successful completion of the ISA Service-Learning Portfolio. A USF transcript will be sent to the student's home institution 2-3 months after the program end date.
Credit and transcript fees:
- 4-week program: 3 credits, $275
- 6-week program: 4 credits, $375
- 8-week program: 5 credits, $375
- Study + Service-Learning program: 3 credits, $275
ISA Service-Learning strongly recommends that students receive confirmation from their home institution that credit transfer will be accepted.
Prices & Dates
Housing Details
ISA Housing provides the opportunity for interns to experience aspects of the local lifestyle that are inaccessible to the average visitor. The experience of living in another culture will be both educational and rewarding so long as you stay open-minded. There are many differences in culture and lifestyle between life in New Zealand and the U.S. Remember: the key to a positive experience is flexibility!
A $300 USD refundable security deposit will be charged to participants living in any housing option in New Zealand. ISA may retain some, or all, of this deposit in the case of damage to property.
Apartments
All apartments are located near public transit routes and are fully furnished. Your apartment will have a fully-equipped kitchen. The number of participants per apartment, internet access and laundry facilities vary from apartment to apartment.
Independent Housing
You may opt to secure housing independently. If you select this option, you will receive a discount equal to the housing portion of the program price. By choosing to opt out of ISA Service-Learning housing, you are solely responsible for researching and reserving housing, and paying all fees, deposits, and rent directly to the housing facility that you choose.
Visa Info
Participants must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months AFTER their expected departure date from New Zealand.
Note: Embassy and Consulate contact information is subject to change without notice. Please refer to the website of the Embassy or Consulate to verify information.
U.S. Citizens
Prior to departure, partipicants apply for a Student Trainee Visa. Processing usually takes 6-8 weeks. Applicants must be currently enrolled as a student to apply for this visa. If you are a recent graduate, please contact ISA Service-Learning for alternative visa options.
Non-U.S. Citizens
Please note that non-U.S. citizens should contact their Consulate to verify specific entry requirements. As these requirements vary based on citizenship, non-U.S. citizens may not be permitted to travel to New Zealand without a visa or outside of their visa dates. Also, visa fees for non-U.S. citizens may differ so please be sure to check specific consulate's website for the most up to date information.