Pre-arrival Information
We know you have lots to do before flying to NZ, so we've created a checklist to help
Two months before you leave
Check your itinerary
Double check your itinerary – ensure dates, times, baggage allowance and seat allocation are correct. Any changes should be attended to immediately.
Check your passport
Make sure your passport is valid for your intended length of study in New Zealand, plus an additional six months.
Arrange travel insurance
Make sure you have travel insurance. Don't leave the country without travel insurance, always be prepared when you are in a foreign country. AIC will assist International Students with Insurance. Please contact us for more information
Arrange your accommodation
Organise your student accommodation or a short-term place to stay for when you arrive in Auckland. If you're looking for inexpensive, short-term accommodation there are a number of dormitory-style hostels in the city centre, you can find one on www.hostelworld.com or www.bbh.co.nz.
Check recommended vaccinations
Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations. See your doctor at least 6–8 weeks before departure to ensure sufficient time for a vaccine to work. Be sure to ask about laws on travelling with medicine in the country you are visiting.
Book health checks
Have a medical, optical and dental check-up and organise prescription medication (if required).
Let us know if you need airport pickup
Let the airline know of any special requirements you have – it's best to make the airline aware as soon as possible. We can help arrange your airport pickup.
One week before you leave
| Checklist | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Documents | Save copies of your passport, visa, insurance, itinerary and card details to cloud storage (e.g. Google Drive or Dropbox). Leave printed copies with family or a friend at home. |
| Passport photo | Bring one with you in case you need to replace a lost passport or get other ID. |
| Money | Have at least NZD $300 for when you arrive, to cover airport transfers and general expenses. Visa is the most widely accepted card in NZ. |
| Customs rules | New Zealand has strict border rules to protect our environment. Check what you can and can’t bring. |
| Traveller Declaration | Complete your New Zealand Traveller Declaration online before you fly. |
| Embassy | Find and save the details of your national embassy in New Zealand. |
| Luggage | Check your baggage allowance (most airlines allow 7kg carry-on and 20kg checked) and lock your checked bag with a padlock. |
| Medication | Keep it correctly labelled and carry your prescription with it. |
| Apps | Your airline (e.g. Air New Zealand), Auckland Airport, Uber, Tripadvisor and Hello Auckland (we highly recommend this one). |
| Phone | Check your roaming costs before you go. You can buy a prepaid SIM at Auckland Airport from One NZ, Spark, 2degrees or Skinny. |
| Entertainment | Download movies or shows onto your devices for the flight. |
Departure day
Final travel checklist
| To do | Details |
|---|---|
| Check your paperwork | Triple check you have all the correct paperwork: airline ticket, passport, photo identification, insurance policy, itinerary and credit card. |
| Save the AIC emergency number | Note down 021 0282 8711 in case you need help during your travels. |
| Dress comfortably | Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. |
| Arrive at the airport early | Get there 2–3 hours before your flight is due to board. |
