Field of study in Wageningen: Integrated Water Management (MIL)
Study period exchange: 13/02/2023 – 20/06/2023
Country (exchange): New Zealand
City (exchange): Lincoln
University (exchange): Lincoln University
Faculty (exchange): Environmental Science
2. Motivation for exchange
Why did you choose to go on study exchange?
I wanted to experience living in another country for a longer period of time and get to know a different culture while meeting many new people and combining it all with travel.
What is the reason you chose for this country/university?
I preferred a native speaking English country to be sure that I could get the most out of the education and that language would not be a problem for me. Furthermore New Zealands’ natural beauty attracted me to go there as well.
3. Accessibility to reach destination
Do you have any tips to reach your exchange destination?
Fly to Christchurch airport and get in contact with accommodation services to arrange a free shuttle from the airport to the university.
4. University and studying
Could you provide some general information about the followed courses?
How is the study formalized
Academic level for master students is good. There is more self study than in Wageningen with a large focus on reading and essay writing.
What is the culture of the university?
The culture of the university is very welcoming and open. Lecturers are easily approachable in their offices and after lectures. There is a large focus on building connection with students.
What does the university offer the student additionally?
Catering is available, awesome sports centre with a large gym, when living on campus flats have their own laundry machines. There is different spots where you can get food and coffee, as well as a nice chill out area in one of the buildings.
5. Housing-travelling-living
What are the possibilities for housing?
You can rent a room on campus (easily done via enrolment) or try to find something private. I rented a room on campus which made it easier to make friends and enjoy the gym facilities.
What is the culture of the country like?
People are very kind when you approach them, but won’t get in contact with you by themselves so easily. At Lincoln there were many people that liked going outdoors and go for example hunting or hiking. Food is much like the Netherlands although there’s some minor differences. In general people are quite polite.
Could you give a general price indication of the place of residence compared to living in Wageningen?
More expensive, especially rent on campus and the food. 360 to 450 euro’s per month.
Could you give some information about public transport infrastructure?
Gas is cheaper as well as public transport, but public transport in general is pretty bad, so buying a car is advised. Travel to university to the airport can best be done by contacting the student accommodation and requesting the free shuttle from the airport.
6. Free time
What are must-sees in the area?
There is so much to see I can’t write it all down. A road trip on the South Island is a must. You need to visit Kaikoura, the Abel Tasman Region, the West Coast with the Fox and Franz Joseph Glacier, the Wanaka Lakes area, Queenstown, Millford Sound and the Mount Cook area with lake Pukaki are some of my highlights.
What does not appear in the travel guide, but is worth a visit?
Almost everything is written down in a guide in New Zealand, but you might like the Blue Pools track.
Do you have general tips and tricks about leisure time?
Lincoln itself is a pretty boring place, so going to Christchurch is much preferred if you’re looking for a busy street with bars and stuff.
7. Challenges & best moment abroad
What was a challenge you have experienced?
Getting somewhere and not knowing anything about how things work and then figuring stuff out on my own. Not having family when emotional things happen.
What was your best memory abroad?
Going hunting with some of my friends and hiking the wild Southern Alps without any track at all and shooting a deer.
8. Contact Details
Would you like to ask Gerben more questions about his exchange?
Send him a mail: gerben.vanmuiswinkel@wur.nl