ARRIVING AT AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

If you have an agent arranged to collect you from the airport, they will inform you of the pick-up area. It is likely they will have a sign with your name on it. Please do not leave the Arrivals Terminal until you have met the agent. If a driver or Host Family is arranged to collect you from the airport, please wait beside the McDonald’s restaurant in the Arrivals Terminal. Please do not leave the Arrivals Terminal until you have met your driver or host family.

If you have any problems on arrival, you can phone the International Student 24 hour phone:  +64 21 0297 1018

Please note: New Zealand enforces strict laws regarding screening for unwanted pests and diseases. Animals, fresh food, insects, wood and some packaged goods are not allowed. For more information visit www.customs.govt.nz, or if you are unsure, declare the items and Customs can check it for you. 

CELL PHONE NETWORKS

There are several cellular phone companies you can choose from in NZ. The most popular ones for students are 2Degrees, Vodafone and Skinny. We recommend you purchase a SIM card for one of these, as both the school and your host family need to be able to contact you while you are here.

STARTING SCHOOL - ORIENTATION

On your first day of school you will start at 8.45am and go to the Main Office to meet the International Department. Orientation will involve an English Language Skills Test, information about our school routines, subject timetables and meeting other new International Students who are starting at the same time.

A welcome letter will be sent to you prior to your arrival in New Zealand. 

LOCAL AREA FACILITIES

Birkenhead College is close to Highbury Shopping Centre, Birkenhead Leisure Centre, Beach Haven Sports Centre and the main bus depot for the Birkenhead area. The Auckland CBD is about 15-20 minutes away, by bus or ferry.

AUCKLAND - CITY OF SAILS

Our city is surrounded by water, so it is necessary to be "waterwise" while you are here. We have many lovely beaches available, but you need to be aware of your own safety while swimming, To check the safety of a beach, go to www.safeswim.org.nz . Where beaches are patrolled by lifeguards, always swim between the red and yellow flags.

We look forward to you joining us at Birkenhead College!