Introduction
As New Zealand's founding history is linked to England, we can learn from its historical European roots, and the history of the Maori people before and after European colonization of New Zealand.
New Zealand is also unique because it has been geographically isolated, thus allowing for the development of indigenious flora and fauna. As examples, most of us are familiar with the Kiwi, but perhaps less so with the Kouri Tree. A first hand visit to this unique land presents a pedagogic experience that surpasses what can be learned indirectly.
The physical environment is also of interest. The proposed trip includes visits to coastal, tropical, glacial, and volcanic environments. Specific visits are planned to the Franz Josef glacier and a volcanic island. Other planned visits include the Maori cultural centers to provide a historical context of the inhabitants before European colonization of the islands.
The trip covers both the North and South Islands. It will provide a broad scope of travel to enjoy the magnificent scenery, the joy of participatory sports activites, and appreciation of the historical and cultural diversity of New Zealand.
Program City
Institution
Faculty Leader
Academic Program
This Capstone course, Environment, Technology and Society is broad in scope. As such it can benefit in multiple ways from a first-hand visit to New Zealand. As New Zealand's founding history is linked to England, as is ours, we can learn from its historical roots. This history of the Maori people following European colonization of New Zealand is also of interest.
This Capstone course touches all three areas, environment, technology and society. While all these aspects will be experienced on the trip, perhaps environment, physical and biological, will be the lion's share of the course, followed by society (history) and technology such as geothermal energy.
Academic Calendar
Tentative Itinerary:
Day 1 - Depart
Day 2 - Arrive. Walk to Mt. Eden, visit museum
Day 3 - Rangitoto Island, unique volcanic shield formation and flora and fauna
Day 4 - Polynesian Pools (hot mineral pools)
Day 5 - Te Puia geothermal park
Day 6 - Rotorua
Day 7 - Whirinaki Conservation Area; Maori Cultural experience
Day 8 - Taupo, Geothermal power plant
Day 9 - Te Papa Museum
Day 10 - Arrive on South Island
Day 11 - Maori use of flora and fauna as food and medicine
Day 12 - Franz Josef
Day 13 - Franz Josef Glacier
Day 14 - Optional Bungee jump; optional Zipline (Queenstown)
Day 15 - Milford Sound day trip
Day 16 - Depart
Accommodation & Meals
Students will stay mostly in Hostels, paid for in advance. Arrangements will be made by the Study Abroad Office. Most meals will be the responsibility of the student while abroad.
Application Materials
Program Cost
The total estimated cost for this program is $4,500-$5,500.
Includes:
- Round-trip airfare
- UNI Tuition and Fees for 2-credits
- Housing while abroad
- Transportation while abroad
- Group meals
- Cultural activities
- Personal Expenses
Students pay UNI tuition and fees (in-state or out-of-state), the $65 application fee, and the study abroad administration fee to participate.
Tales From Abroad
