What is your name:
Alisha Jaggi
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelors of Engineering (Hons), majoring in Software.
What languages do speak:
Hindi, English
What do you love about Auckland:
As I was born and raised up here, I spent my whole life living in Auckland. There is a saying from my culture that resonates with the cultural diversity of Auckland “Vasudeva Kutambakam” which means the world is my family.
Since childhood, I have experienced how the community is so diverse and inclusive of people that come from different cultural backgrounds, and that made me learn more about their cultural values and understand their cultural identity in more detail.
I really like the fact how Auckland values this a lot and promotes cultural diversity by celebrating cultural festivals, having cultural events, language weeks, cultural workshops, and where different languages are being taught in school.
This has encouraged me to study different cultures from a young age and learn certain phrases from a range of languages, that would help me connect with people from diverse cultural backgrounds and this will establish a strong rapport amongst us.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Since I have lived in Auckland for my whole life, I made a lot of professional relationships as well as long-lasting friendships from schools and university. Lecturers and people, in general, are very keen on helping you here. Universities usually organise professional events where students can meet managers, learn about different industries and make contacts. Also, there is a lot of social support provided in Auckland that will enhance your networking skills
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
My favourite experience has been travelling around Auckland and going to famous landmarks such as Auckland Botanical Gardens, Auckland Museum, Sky Tower etc.
Fun fact about yourself:
I am a huge fan of the “Friends” series. My hobbies of interest include baking, learning new languages, listening to music and chess.
What is your name:
Anny Yu
What do you study:
Tertiary - Masters in Piano Performance at the University of Auckland
What languages do speak:
Chinese, English and a little Korean!
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland is a place of diversity and I love the fact that I can enjoy all kinds of cuisines and meet new people of various backgrounds. There are a range of festivals that celebrate not only Aotearoa, but other cultures like Poly Fest, Auckland Diwali Festival and Lantern Festival. No matter what the occasion is, you get to enjoy food of those cultures.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Over the years, I have made new friendships and built professional relationships which help establish my career. As a music student, we had to perform and attend various concerts around Auckland throughout the year. I got to play on Waiheke Island, Holy Trinity Cathedral and even the Auckland Town Hall. And through these opportunities, I got to meet people that helped me organise events and shared their tips and tricks which contributed to my growth as a musician.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
Did you know that there is this mysterious Woodhill Forest is part of Auckland? Woodhill Forest is a 40 min drive away from Auckland CBD and one of my favourite experiences in Auckland is Tree Adventures and Mountain Biking. I love the thrilling high ropes courses in the trees as you become one with nature and the challenging mountain biking tracks where you can immerse yourself in the woods and enjoy the soothing sound of birds chirping in the background.
I love how Auckland is so animated in the city but the nature is only a short distance away!
Fun fact about yourself:
When I was 6 years old, my family moved to New Zealand to settle. So, my parents had arrived weeks before I did to get ready for me and I had to take the plane from Shanghai to Auckland ALL BY MYSELF! And at that time, there were no direct flights, so I had to transit from Hong Kong. Now that’s what I’d say is some pretty bold move!
What is your name:
Dyan Patel
What do you study:
Highschool - I am in Year 12 at Westlake Boys’ High School
What languages do speak:
English. I also know a bit of French too.
What do you love about Auckland:
I love that there is a lot of sporty and outdoor things to do in Auckland. For example, there are plenty of parks to go to when I am bored, there’s plenty of nature walks and wildlife sanctuaries like Shakespeare Park or the Waitakere’s that I can visit and explore. I also love that there are plenty of public sports facilitates all around Auckland that I can go to.
I love going to the beaches in Auckland as well; Cheltenham beach and Mission Bay being my favourite 2 beaches to hang around and go swimming.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I have made a lot of fun and memorable relationships while living in Auckland. A relationship I will always remember is the one I share between my homestay family and I. My homestay family are very kind, helpful and very fun to be around. With them, I have made many memories that I will always remember.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
I went on a 2-day sea kayaking trip around some of the islands around Auckland. We spent the night on Motuora Island, where we saw 3 Kiwi Birds when exploring the island at night. It was amazing!
Fun fact about yourself:
I’ve sat right on the edge of Victoria Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, in a rock pool called the Devil’s Pool.
What is your name:
Harry Tong
What do you study:
Currently in High School - Year 11, Auckland Grammar School
What languages do speak:
English & Mandarin
What do you love about Auckland:
Everything! From its stunning landscape, its blue sky, the crystal ocean around it, to the friendly people, rich multi-cultural society and strong community spirit, which are undoubtedly embedded in everyone’s memories.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I was selected as the international leader for Murrays Bay Intermediate back in year 8
I am currently involved in Auckland Grammar’s orchestra, football, debating and Duke of Edinburgh programme
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
It has to be watching the firework show under Sky Tower at the end of 2020! It was not only fascinating to me how delicately the show was planned to achieve stunning effects, but also the degree of positivity and optimism Aucklanders hold during which the entire world was ravaged by a panicking pandemic. This experience only deepens my confidence in Auckland to overcome the difficulties it is currently encountering, and its ability to unite all people of all races to march forward as a collective body, a team, and a family.
Fun fact about yourself:
- I love learning new languages and understanding about different countries & societies.
- I typically enjoy learning history and often appreciate works with a historic or military background.
- My favourite hobby is probably travelling! I have footprints over many parts of China and within NZ, as I believe travelling widens my sight and deepens my appreciation towards this planet on which we have lived for millennia.
- I also love watching and playing football as a sport. I do not have a favourite team… I just neutrally support everyone!
What is your name:
Helen Jeong
What do you study:
Highschool - I am in Year 12 at Kirstin School
What languages do speak:
English and Korean
What do you love about Auckland:
I love that Auckland is open for everyone within the community. Auckland is a place where opportunities are given to people from different countries, ethnicities, ages, genders, and interests. From workplace to seasonal festivals, Auckland fulfils the desires of all beloved visitors and residents.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Most of the relationships I made as a student in Auckland are the relationships that I will take with me for a long time.
Friends I made in Auckland were welcoming me from day one, and they helped me a lot to get involved in school activities and gatherings. School faculty members are also a part of the precious relationships I made in Auckland: they taught me with their full efforts and made sure I am understanding the concepts, beyond simply memorising them.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
There are obviously countless experiences that people can enjoy in Auckland; but, among those, my favourite one was the Happy New Year Count-down at Auckland Sky tower. Every year, people gather in the city to count down and celebrate the start of a new year. Stunning fireworks after the count-down event are unforgettable.
Fun fact about yourself:
My favourite food is a lemon sorbet, but I cannot eat more than a single cup of it as it is too sweet. Just a short delight with a single cup of lemon sorbet is enough for me to get energetic!
What is your name:
Hyeonseong Kim
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelor of Nursing at University of Auckland
What languages do speak:
English and Korean
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland is a city of many different ethnicities of people. Thanks to this mix of different cultures, you can experience that you can't find anywhere else. I love how I can learn diverse cultures from them.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I met diverse professionals and made relationships with them. I'm from another country but it's in New Zealand that I have the most hospital contacts. Lecturers and teaching staffs are here to assist you to join diverse events and studies. Universities organise professional events where students can meet various health professionals, learn about different communities, and make contacts.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
I had the chance to travel to nearby islands by joining the Sprite of Adventure in Auckland. I spent 14 days sailing around the island, enjoying the lovely landscapes and beautiful sunsets without any electronic devices. You can experience life without any electronic devices and how it is enjoyable.
Also, there are many weekend markets (e.g., French market in Parnell) and night markets (e.g., Glenfield). You can enjoy various delicious foods and cultures!
Fun fact about yourself:
I’ve lived in South Korea, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. Came to New Zealand in 2009 and still an international student. I can read and understand Japanese and Mandarin but barely speak. I’m playing League of Legends since 2012 (season 2) but still my rank is Gold. My hobby is having a nap.
What is your name:
Kedi Zou
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelor/Masters in Arts (Communication major) at University of Auckland
What languages do speak:
English & Mandarin
What do you love about Auckland:
I like the picturesque scenery of Auckland. Opening the curtain is like opening a picture scroll every day. Blue sky, fresh air, and long white clouds will heal your mood. You can enjoy your hiking on Mt. Eden, reading on Takapuna Beach, or a picnic in mission bay.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
As a newcomer, I feel that I’m fully supported by the people here. Lecturers are very keen on helping you, and counselling teachers are very patient to listen to you. Volunteers will always guide you with enthusiasm on campus. Universities organize workshops and activities frequently to help you engage with the community and provide professional instructions for your future careers.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
I had a memorable Halloween with my homestay’s kids in 2019, although I was already 18 years old at that time. We dressed up and went out for trick or treat. What’s more, as one of the most diverse cities in the world, there are thousands of cuisines from different cultures for you in Auckland. They are delicious!
Fun fact about yourself:
I enjoy participating in yoga classes with elderly people who are passionate about sharing their live experiences. It’s interesting to talk with them after classes; they are intelligent and insightful.
What is your name:
Khooshi Patel
What do you study:
Bachelor of Health Science in Oral Health at Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
What languages do speak:
English, Gujarati and Hindi
What do you love about Auckland:
To me, Auckland city is the heart of Aotearoa, New Zealand. I love the people, the scenery, the food, the opportunities, the adventure, the diversity, the aroha, and the community! Each person in AKL contributes something to the city and makes it more unique, and even more beautiful! There are so many amazing things to do in Auckland such as explore wildlife, take a stroll in the park, relax at our stunning beaches, visit the museum, eat at different restaurants, go on a safari, or be adventurous and go skydiving or parasailing! Not only is there a diverse range of activities and experiences to be a part of, but there are also people of diverse cultures and ethnic backgrounds. We are all unique in our own ways, but Auckland is the city that unites us all <3
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
It’s nice to see how open people are to forming new connections and relationships with others in New Zealand. I’ve made several personal and professional relationships as a student in Auckland through networking platforms such as careers fairs, volunteering, leadership roles and social media. And these platforms have enabled me to build valuable relationships with company owners, lecturers, volunteers, work colleagues and other fellow students!
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
I have countless amazing experiences within Auckland, however Waitomo Caves has got to be up there on the list! I remember going on a guided tour in 2008, gliding across the waves while learning about the interesting history and geology of the caves. I’ll never forget the magical experience of looking up to see the beautiful glow worms above me!
Another favourite place of mine in AKL is an Indian restaurant called ‘Status’. I’m a big foodie so I’ve been to a lot of restaurants, but I have to say – Status has the best Indian food in Auckland! They’ve got a range of options on the menu from different cuisines such as Italian, Mexican and Indo-Chinese, but my fav dish is Paneer Tikka Masala!
Fun fact about yourself:
I love learning languages! I’m currently fluent in English, Gujarati & Hindi, but I am also in the process of learning French and Korean! Top tip: A good way to learn a new language is through movies and shows – I learnt Hindi fluently just from watching movies alone! And I’m currently watching K-dramas to learn Korean!
What is your name:
Linda Yan
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelor in Food Technology at Massey University.
What languages do speak:
English & Mandarin
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland is the most modern city in New Zealand. I see lots of social activities in Auckland. Lots of restaurants to try different cuisines.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I made relationship with my lecturers and my friends from student association. I am also involved in some volunteering groups, and got to know some non-profits organizations such as Asian Family Service.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
Food quality in New Zealand is very good. I got to try lots of fresh seafood here, such as salmon, crayfish, abalone etc. There are lots of good restaurants that offer excellent dining experience, such as at the Sky Tower (I love the kiwi cuisine from orbit 360).
Fun fact about yourself:
I love cooking, and in New Zealand you can buy good quality food ingredients, which enhanced my passion of cooking.
I love to share some food/daily life photos on my facebook, wechat, & insta accounts.
What is your name:
Matthew Le
What do you study:
Tertiary - Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland
What languages do speak:
English & Vietnamese
What do you love about Auckland:
I love the tiniest of things about Auckland: the windiness, the local businesses, the hilly streets, the fact that its weather is practically unpredictable, etc. All of these little things add up to the unique experience of Auckland in me!
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Most of them have been friendships. Some have led to amazing work opportunities while others have allowed for memories of a lifetime.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
By far, the best one yet was the jump from the Sky Tower. Worth all the hype. 10/10.
Also, Spicy Pot (opposite to Auckland Library) is really good as well.
Fun fact about yourself:
- I’m an early bird.
- A breakup can get me to lose up to 20kg.
- I can’t handle horror movies.
What is your name:
Nea Steiner Stroemgren
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelor’s in Business – Majoring in Finance and Management at AUT.
What languages do speak:
I speak Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, English and a little bit of Spanish.
What do you love about Auckland:
I love how there is so much to do within short distance. I can go eat some amazing food in Ponsonby, go hiking on the west coast, explore Mt Eden and see the sunset at the volcano all in one day! I also love the people here – everyone is really friendly and relaxed (nothing like my hometown :D)
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I have made many new friends and extended my network incredibly since I started studying. If you have the time and energy, there are so many opportunities for you to get out of your comfort zone and build new relationships! Sometimes being an international student (from a “unique” country) gives me an advantage and people are extra curious to get to know me!
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
It must be when I had a massive picnic with some of my favourite people at Piha Beach. We played volleyball, had some amazing food and watched the sunset. An incredible day!
Fun fact about yourself:
I have travelled to 60 countries – going for 100 when COVID is out of the picture!
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What is your name:
Puthponita Chhun
What do you study:
Highschool – Year 13 at Green Bay High School
What languages do speak:
My mother language is Khmer (Cambodian) but I am also fluent in English. I also know basic Japanese.
What do you love about Auckland:
I love the diversity of Auckland city, the different cultures. I love how people living in Auckland can accept each other despite having different backgrounds and beliefs. As a nature lover, waking up to the lush green scenery really keeps me going daily. A spread-out city like Auckland has tons of restaurants with various cuisines which makes it all the more exciting to discover every now and then when I hang out with my friends.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I made a lot of long-lasting friendships and relationships with my host family during my stay here in Auckland. As a student from Cambodia, I only know a handful of people and there are barely any volunteering opportunities that I can do. Staying in New Zealand, specifically Auckland, had offered me so many opportunities and opened so many new doors. My friends all came from different countries and have different cultures, which I found quite interesting and made me very curious about how they live. Not only that, but they are also the people that helped me through my school life, always there for me when I need them. Other relationships I’ve made are with my host parents as well as my superior while I volunteered at a local art gallery.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
My favourite experience was spending a day in Westfield mall in New Market with my group of friends. Since my friends and I live in West Auckland, we all had to take a bus to Newmarket and because some had to be dropped off at the bus stop, we missed a couple of buses before we actually got on the ride. Once we got there, we ate at the food court (of course choosing different menus so we can all try what was there) and went to the karaoke booth for about an hour or so. We sang our hearts out and left with a hoarse voice afterwards, but it was worth the fun. Also there is this one macaron or should I say Fatcarons store in New Market called Daldang. They serve the cutest and the most filled macarons in Auckland. It’s a shop to stop by if you have a chance.
Fun fact about yourself:
A fun fact about how I choose to come to New Zealand to study. In my country, Cambodia, the school year starts from September to June. Around October my parents decided to come and visit New Zealand (I didn’t come with them at the time) but when they came back they asked me if I wanted to study abroad and gave me two months to decide. Keep in mind, it was still the middle of a school year. But I said yes anyway and I packed up and left to come and study in Auckland, New Zealand in 2020. Oh, also I came just as the first lockdown began.
What is your name:
Pui Hei Lam
What do you study:
High School - Year 12 student from Baradene College of the Sacred Heart.
What languages do you speak:
I speak Mandarin and English.
What do you love about Auckland:
I love Auckland city as it is quite like Shanghai and Hong Kong, where I came from, in terms of diversity and inclusiveness; but it is also different in lifestyles, as Auckland seems to be slow-paced. The best part is that Auckland keeps a busy CBD in the centre of the city, which means that we can experience some sort of fast-paced life here. I also love Auckland because of its natural environment – the ocean, the beaches, the bushes, and the clean air.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I have made quite a few new friends by participating in a variety of activities such as interschool social events, sports tournaments, social service. I also took first aid and lifeguard training to gain certificates. During these training, I also had chances to know other people who work in different industries.
Not only did I meet friends, but I was also supported by my agents here. They help me with my education and life ever since I came here, which therefore allows me to adapt to this place better. I really appreciate it.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
Duke of Ed tramps in the Hunua Ranges! We carried backpacks with tents and sleeping gear that weigh 10kg on average, walked for 6-7 hours a day for three days in the bushes. Every evening when we arrived at the campsites, we were able to see the beautiful scenery from there and all the walks were worth it. Even though I was so exhausted afterward, I believed that I should share this unforgettable experience with my whānau.
Fun fact about yourself:
I have axolotls as pets (they are unique and adorable).
What is your name:
Riko Takayoshi
What do you study:
High School - Year 12 at Rangitoto College
What languages do you speak:
Japanese as my first language, and English
What do you love about Auckland:
There are two things I love about Auckland city. With the city’s multicultural nature, you can discover new tastes here with many options of restaurants from different countries. Auckland does not only have buildings and skyscrapers, but it also has plenty of green environments where you can sit and take a little break.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I made a lot of connections with people through rugby, which is a sport I love. Playing sports can give you many opportunities to go to new places and meet new people around Auckland, and people here generally welcome you as a part of a big family. As a college student, I made many friends at school, which makes studying a lot more fun for you.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
I travelled to Rangitoto Island with my friends by ferry from Auckland city, and the view from the top was magnificent. Getting up a little bit early to see the sunrise at my local beach is also my favourite experience here in Auckland. You can not miss going to beaches when you are in Auckland!
Fun fact about yourself:
I used to live in Belgium when I was little, and the only thing I remember clearly is the ice cream truck that came to the school every day.
What is your name:
Runzhe Gao
What do you study:
Tertiary – Masters in Statistics at the University of Auckland.
What languages do you speak:
English, Mandarin.
What do you love about Auckland:
It's a nice place where you can see so many people with different backgrounds (uni students, people with jobs, retired people, worldwide tourists before COVID-19, etc.), and meeting all kinds of people allows me to learn the world more.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
By joining different programmes in the University of Auckland, I’ve made connections with many experienced staff with different backgrounds, they are all willing to give me some suggestions when I struggle, and they inspired me of different perspectives when viewing things.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
Auckland has some really nice restaurants owned by people from all over the world, which means you can have a taste of the most authentic food. Also, because Auckland is a relatively fast-growing city, there is usually something new to me to figure out.
Fun fact about yourself:
I dreamed of being a fashion designer when I was a kid.
What is your name:
Ryan Chow
What do you study:
Bachelor of Communication Studies & Bachelor of Business conjoint at Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
What languages do you speak:
English, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese Chinese
What do you love about Auckland:
I love the kindness of Auckland’s people the most about Auckland as a city. Since moving here, I have found Aucklanders to be incredibly warm and easy to talk to which has helped me to meet new friends rather quickly. It is one of Auckland’s greatest strengths, in my opinion, as it makes living here pleasant and helps create a welcoming study environment.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Beyond meeting plenty of new friends, I have also made a lot of professional relationships. Upon arriving in Auckland, I quickly found it to be quite a cosmopolitan city with people of all sorts of talents. It helped me create my own business very easily and develop ideas and connections within the film industry without much trouble at all.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
My favourite experience in Auckland has been riding one of the many scooters you can find in the city along the harbour at sunset. It’s so beautiful and fun to do!
Fun fact about yourself:
I’ve trekked the mountains of Sri Lanka and rafted through the rapids of Northern Thailand!
What is your name:
Tram Le
What do you study:
High School - Year 13 at Mount Albert Grammar School
What languages do you speak:
Vietnamese and English
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland is a coastal city with picturesque scenery. Chilling out along the harbour or catching a ferry to a random place is what I would definitely go for. I enjoy being in the nature.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
I get on well with my host family while being an international high school student. The multicultural environment allows me to get to know and build relationships with people from different countries. When volunteering, joining school clubs, and getting myself a part-time job, I have opportunities to meet those who share the same interests with me, making me feel more connected. I have made lots of friends.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
My best friend and I joined a guided tour to Waiheke Island & volunteering for Sea Cleaners 😊. We also had a chance to enjoy the sunrise together at Westhaven Marina. My first time to such a wonderful island is even more memorable when I travelled in this way.
Fun fact about yourself:
I find out places to go while sitting on a bus, and places to eat by following food bloggers on social media 😊
What is your name:
Tuong Cat Chu (Cát Tường)
What do you study:
Highschool - Year 12 student at St Dominic's Catholic College
What languages do you speak:
Vietnamese, English
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland city offers both the excitement of urban life and the serenity of nature, which allows me to swing between the two modes throughout the day. This city is an endless mystery and its constant changes urge me to go explore every day. These are the reasons why I love Auckland.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
A new relationship that I made as a student in Auckland is a relationship with myself. Studying away from home which means spending more time on my own, I have a chance to listen to myself and reflect on my value. Auckland gave me lots of chances to reach out to diverse aspects of life and engage in unforgettable conversations. These opportunities have had a positive impact on my self-discovery journey.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
My favourite experience is going on a spontaneous adventure with my close friends. We let the flow of life direct us to unexpected events and introduce us to different people along the way. In the last week of summer in 2021, we stepped out of our bubble and approached a group of Vietnamese university students to say hi. This encounter not only gave me a chance to attend the Tết (Lunar New Year) event, but also other events from the Vietnamese Auckland University Student’s Association. This serves as a life-long lesson to never be afraid of reaching out to other people.
Fun fact about yourself:
I live in Auckland, but during this lockdown, my body’s clock is set in Vietnam’s time zone.
What is your name:
Cadence Liu
What do you study:
Tertiary – Masters in Data Science at The University of Auckland
What languages do you speak:
English, Mandarin Chinese
What do you love about Auckland:
I love that we are a compact city that has a little bit of anything you could wish for – A part of me always has cravings for very niche activities and I find great enjoyment when I discover that I can participate in those activities without having to travel too far out the city most times.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
Working as an events coordinator for an academic club in UoA has made me connections to the industry I am planning to enter as well as meeting all the peers I will be working alongside in the near future. Participating in other extracurricular activities such as badminton and entrepreneurial activities has netted me lifelong bonds with friends who share the same passion as I do.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
Probably the diverse food palate of the inner city – good food from any cuisine is usually just 10 minutes’ walk away anytime you’re in the CBD! Nowadays the situations seem to be improving even faster with newer, more creative players entering the scene to keep things fresh for the old-timers.
Fun fact about yourself:
Travelled solo to Europe just to see my favourite artist perform in front of a crowd of fewer than 100 people LIVE!
What is your name:
Kazzy Bautista
What do you study:
Tertiary – Bachelors of Science majoring in Psychology and Biochemistry at The University of Auckland
What languages do speak:
Tagalog, English, Ilonggo
What do you love about Auckland:
Auckland is not just a city, but an experience in and of itself. What I love the most about it is the nightlife. At night, it's always so bright and lively. Auckland city offers a lot of discoveries, but my favorite is probably the Viaduct at night. The waterfront and stunning views always take my breath away.
Getting together with friends is extremely easy because there are a lot of restaurants and bars open at night. No matter what type of evening I’ve got planned, Viaduct has me covered. Even though I pretty much live in Auckland, I love exploring the city because each experience is different.
What kind of new relationships did you make as a student in Auckland:
In my time in Auckland as a student, I have built relationships I will cherish forever. Among them would be my fellow students, who became my friends. Having moved to New Zealand, I would have never imagined that I would establish lasting relationships with people around me, especially those who are ahead of my years.
In my experience as a student in Auckland, I've met mentors who challenged me, gave me valuable life lessons, and introduced me to creative ways of thinking. Student life in Auckland is so diverse, it offers a great deal of opportunities for both employment and personal growth. Having gathered wisdom from these relationships has inspired me to pass it on to the generation after me #PayItForward.
What has been your favourite experience in Auckland:
As someone who has lived in Auckland for the past years, I have come to appreciate the beauty inherent in diversity. The people themselves make the experience beautiful and one-of-a-kind. Being able to meet people from all over the world with different values, cultural backgrounds, and ethnicities is what I enjoy most about living in Auckland.
Just walking down Auckland's CBD offers a variety of different cuisines. I would probably say that my most favorite experience in Auckland is living in the city, since I get to see it during the day and night. Mornings are great for strolling down High Street, which has a lot to offer. There is a wide range of footwear, clothing boutiques, and excellent restaurants for a bite to eat or something to drink. In the evenings, the city is filled with lively bars and a thriving nightlife scene.
There are options to suit every mood and occasion, whether you're catching up with a friend, family, or going out on a date
Fun fact about yourself:
I am an ENFP according to my 16 personality results. I'm a very spontaneous, energetic, and creative person. I thrive most when I get to do my passion. I love learning about people, so I always look at things from all perspectives (hence, Psychology is one of my majors!)
Information & Support
For more information about the Auckland Student Ambassador programme contact programme lead, Tony An.