Embassy English Student Handbook

Contents
Courses

Our Staff 3
Your Course 4
Description of Course 6
Student Services 7
Internet 7
Social Programme 8
Accommodation
New Zealand 11
Your Homestay 13
Residential/Private 15
Practical information
Studycare Insurance 17
Code of Practice 17
Cancellations & Refunds 19
Student Complaints 20
Fire Procedure 21
Medical Care 21
Immigration 22
Safety & Law 22
Driving in New Zealand 23
Postal Information 25
Other Information 26
Locations
Local Attractions 28
Theatres & Cinemas 29
Eating Out 30
Pubs & Clubs 31
Sport & Leisure 32

New Zealand
Your guide to studying
and living with Embassy
Student
Handbook
2015
courses
Courses
3
Our Sta
Welcome to Embassy Auckland! I hope you
will have a wonderful time studying at our
spacious well equipped city based campus.
Our highly qualified teachers and friendly,
ecient student welfare sta are here to help
you to achieve your goals and ensure you have
an enjoyable and rewarding time in Auckland.
All our sta are happy to provide advice and
help when needed, just ask. Auckland is a
fantastic city – a great climate, relaxed lifestyle
and friendly people make it a wonderful place
to enjoy your study abroad experience.
Lindsay Spedding
Campus Director
Student Welfare Manager/
Chinese Student Advisor
Ms Margaret Chen
The Student Welfare Team is available
to assist you with accommodation and
welfare problems. They will also monitor your

attendance to ensure that you are attending
class and working to the best of your ability.

Accommodation Ocer
Elia Fiso / Angela Zhao
•
Homestay and lodge placement.

Attendance Ocer
Coco Lu
•
Embassy and TELP Orientation Coordinator
•
Attendance/discipline Coordinator.
Kiwi Club Activities Coordinator
Jamila Ahmed
•
Activities in Auckland and around New Zealand.
The Campus Director is responsible for:
• Major school issues
• Overall management of the centre
• Emergency contact.
When you first arrive, you will probably have many questions to ask.
Here is a list of key people who work here and what they are responsible for:
Centre Academic Manager
Alan Cockburn
•
Course Design
•
Teacher Supervision

•
Problems or questions about
your course or classes
•
Opportunities after Embassy, references,
applications and university placement.

Head of Teaching
Prini Wimalachandra
•
Teacher Supervision
•
Problems or questions about
your course or classes
•
Opportunities after Embassy, references,
applications and university placement.

Your Teachers
Self study strategies
Advice about books and course requirements
Questions about your class,
level and progress.
Courses
4
Orientation
An introduction to teaching methods,
resources and facilities. You will be given
information about your course and advice
about studying and learning, as well as a

tour of the school and facilities. Additionally
you will be introduced to key members of
sta and information about the school, the city,
accommodation and the social programme.
You will meet accommodation sta and/or
student services sta, who will give you
practical information and advice about your
stay. Please note: You will need to bring your
passport to the orientation to be copied.
You must have a current and valid visa
(e.g. Visitor or Student) at all times.

Placement test
This tests your level of English, so that we
can put you in the right class for your level.
The test includes: grammar and vocabulary,
speaking, and writing. You will have a short
interview with the academic sta to discuss
your individual needs and wants. You will be
placed in class according to the test result,
the Academic Manager’s opinion of your
level, and your own opinion.
Your teachers
All of our teachers are professionally
trained with specialist qualifications in
English language teaching such as the Certificate
in English Language Teaching to Adults, in additi
on to educational qualifications from universities
and colleges. Many specialise in particular areas
of teaching, or are engaged in research, textbook

writing, materials development or the use of IT
in ELT.

Starting your course
You will start classes on Tuesday morning
or afternoon. You may find that you are joining a
class which already exists. This is perfectly normal
and is because students arrive on dierent dates
and stay for dierent lengths of time. The
important thing is that each week is a separate
teaching unit and you will be placed in the class
which is most appropriate for you and your level
of English. Your teacher will help you integrate into
the group.

Self-access
The self-access facilities give you the opportunity
to practise and improve your English more quickly.
They are available to all students at fixed times and
comprise computer and Internet access, reading,
grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation materials
and exercises. Students have free wifi and
unlimited internet data, although some sites
such as Youtube are blocked.
Your Course
What to expect on your first day
Sample Day One
8.30 Arrive at reception. Host families will
have directed you to the Embassy
centre.

9.00 - 12.00 Welcome to Embassy. Students gather
for placement test. Introduction and
orientation with Campus Director/
Principal, Centre Academic Manager,
Student Welfare Manager,
International Student Advisor (Visa
and Insurance Check), Attendance
Ocer and Accommodation Ocer.
You will receive free books, folder and
orientation questionnaire. Introduction
to the language lab/self-access facility.
1.30 - 4.00 ID Photos & Campus Tour
Courses
5
Homework

Standard Course 5 hours per week and
Intensive Course 10 hours per week.

•
Homework may be of dierent types:
study based homework e.g. grammar
and vocabulary practice exercises
•
communicative homework
e.g. asking your host family questions
for a class survey
•
study skills assignments
e.g. ways of keeping vocabulary records

•
specialised English topics
e.g. planning and giving a presentation
•
examination practise and preparation.
You will be asked to do at least one piece
of extended writing per week which will
be collected, marked and returned.

Progress
You will take progress tests in class and be
given a progress report every 4-6 weeks, in
addition to tutorials with your teacher and/or
the Centre Academic Manager to discuss your
course and your progress.
Materials
You will receive a course book for your level.
In addition, your teacher will use a wide variety
of supplementary materials and authentic
materials, such as BBC radio and TV news.
Examinations
Even if you have not chosen an
Examination course, it may be possible
to enter for an international examination.
As an organisation, we have many
years experience in advising students.
Below are some of the examinations which
you can prepare for through the Embassy
Auckland Centre. Ask us for guidance.
•

IELTS
•
TOEIC
•
Cambridge FCE
Problems and advice
If you have any kind of problem or
worry, please tell us so that we can help.
If you are uncertain about your level or your
course, please speak first to your teacher
or if you would prefer, directly to the
Academic Manager.
Extending or
changing your course
If you decide you would like to extend or
change your course please speak to the
Centre Academic Manager.
Pathway opportunities
If you are interested in going to university
or further education, speak to the Centre
Academic Manager who will advise you or make
an appointment with someone who
can provide academic counselling. In most
cases, you will be referred to the Tertiary
Counsellor who will provide you with more
detailed information.

Course planning
Your course is planned with clear
aims and objectives to meet each week.

Courses
6
Certificate of English
Standard 20 Intensive 24
and 28

Lessons
Standard 20: 20 x 50 minute lessons
per week, morning and/or afternoon
language development.

Aims and objectives
•
To improve your confidence and ability
to speak and understand English
•
To improve your grammar, vocabulary
and pronunciation.

Classes may take place in the morning or
afternoon. Times may change in summer.
Description of Courses
Intensive course
Lessons
•
Intensive 24: 24 x 50 minute lessons
per week, morning and/or afternoon
•
Intensive 28: 28 x 50 minute lessons
per week, morning and/or afternoon

•
Two to four lessons per week of your certificate
course will be undertaken in dierent formats
including guided lesson of Embassy Study
Smart, lectures and project work which have
all been designed to improve your learning.
Aims and objectives
•
To improve your confidence and ability
to speak and understand English
•
To improve your grammar, vocabulary
and pronunciation
•
To improve your language skills, listening,
speaking, reading, writing, according to
your study and future needs
•
To improve your understanding of eective
strategies for learning, in particular for use
in self-study
•
To give you the opportunity to study
specialised English such as Business and IT,
leading to externally validated certificates.
Classes run on a morning or afternoon
timetable depending on class length.
Optional extras
•
Would you like to continue your English

on the internet after you leave? Ask us
about the Embassy online learning package
•
Would you like to add some one-to-one
lessons to your course? Ask us for details
•
Would you like to go to a New Zealand
university? We oer a free advice.
Courses
7
Student Services
Phonecards
A range of phone cards can be purchased
through the reception desk on the Ground
Floor. Please be sure to ask about which
phone card suits your needs best as some
oer larger discounts to certain countries.
Incoming mail
Students are welcome to have mail sent directly
to the Centre. Student mail can
be collected at the Reception Desk.
Messages
The Student Welfare department will take
important telephone messages for you and
will send messages to you in class. Please give
your friends and family the telephone number
of your host family or residence.
Public Transport
The Embassy Centre is conveniently located
near major bus stops, and not far from the train

station. Most people in Auckland use the bus in
order to travel to and from work or study.
Train passes
Train passes are purchased on the train directly.
Discounted fares are available to passengers
that travel frequently.
Bus passes
A local monthly bus pass can be bought in
registered bus outlets throughout the city and
on any bus and entitles you to one month’s
unlimited travel in the city of Auckland.
Weekly passes are also available. If you are in a
full time course of 10 weeks or more you will be
eligible for a “Tertiary Student Pass”. This will
save you 40% on a normal bus pass.
Faxes
You can send and receive faxes
via the Student Welfare Team.
Campus Rules
•
Always speak English on campus,
and try to speak it everywhere else
•
Dress appropriately for class
•
Show respect for fellow students
and their property
•
Respect all students’ right to study and
learn in the classroom

•
Turn o mobile phones when entering class
•
Smoke only outside in designated smoking areas
•
No chewing gum in class
•
No food or drink in classrooms or the
computer room
•
Education providers must monitor student
progress and attendance. Embassy will notify
New Zealand Immigration should students
cease to attend the course or programme they
are enrolled in
•
Attend class on time. If you are more than 15
minutes late for class, you will have to miss the
lesson and you will be marked absent.

Please remember: If you do not follow these
rules or behaviour is generally unsatisfactory,
you may be asked to leave the college.
Internet
Where?
The Internet and email facilities are available
in the computer laboratories. You will have
access to the computers during the normal
centre hours and will be shown where it is
as part of your orientation on the first day.

Wireless internet access is also available. You
will be shown how to connect to the free wifi
network on your first day.
Courses
8
Events
Every Friday Embassy oers a trip
to places of interest around the city.
These may include:
•
Auckland City Museum
•
Auckland Maritime Museum
•
Auckland City Art Gallery and New Gallery
•
Laserstrike
•
Indoor Rock Climbing
•
Indoor Ice-skating
•
Ten-Pin Bowling
•
Ice-cream Factory Tour
•
Brewery Tour
•
Indoor Aquatic Centre – Takapuna.

If you have any ideas about sports/events you
would like to see organised please suggest
them to the Kiwi Club Coordinator.
Social Programme
Kiwi Club
During the year there are regular excursions
organised by Embassy Auckland. These
excursions leave from outside the Centre.

Please note that some students may
need to check their visa before travelling.
Students under 18 should also check
with the Centre before travelling.

The Kiwi Club Coordinator will also help
you plan any trips which are not organised
by the school.
Sample Leisure Activities
in Auckland
•
Waitakere Bushwalks & Beach Visits
•
Ice-skating/Rollerblading
•
Boat Cruises & Sailing
•
Bars/Cafes/Nightclubs/Restaurants
•
Yoga/Pilates/Fitness Studios
•

Opera/Theatre/Ballet/Cultural Festivals/
•
Live Comedy Shows
•
Bowling
•
Brewery Tours
•
Bungy jumping/Para-gliding/Kite surfing /
Hang-gliding/Mountain Biking
Sample Indoor Trips:
•
Kelly Tarltons Underwater World
(penguins, sharks, tropical fish and octopi)

We walk to the main bus terminal downtown
(10 mins away) and catch a bus along the
beautiful waterfront to Kelly Tarltons
Underwater World. We enter the underground
complex and take the revolving standing
platform, which enables you to view sharks,
sting-rays, tropical fish, octopi, and many
other amazing sea-life creatures. We then jump
in a viewing jeep, which takes us through the
penguin habitat – it’s exactly like in Antarctica!
We eat at the café for lunch and then head back
to school after going for a stroll along
the waterfront.
Courses
9

Sample Outdoor Trips:
•
Cruises to Waiheke/Devonport
and other nearby Islands
•
Kayaking
•
Beach visits for swimming, lunch
and ball games on the sand
•
Outdoor Sports Lessons. eg, surfing
at Muriwai, horse riding
•
Rollerblading on the waterfront
at Mission Bay
•
Minigolf and fish and chips on the
beach at Mission Bay
•
Aotea Centre Craft Markets
•
Mountain Biking Woodhill Forest, Muriwai
•
Walk up to visit the volcanic crater and
360˚ view of Auckland in Mt. Eden
Full-day and Weekend
Excursions:
Bay of Islands:
•
Swimming with the dolphins

Rotorua:
•
Maori Culture, food and dance/natural hot
pools/massages/mud wraps
Coromandel Peninsula:
•
East Coast Beaches, Hot Water Beach,
Whitianga, Cathedral Cove etc
Taupo:
•
North Island’s biggest lake/
bungy jumping/sky diving
North Island National Park:
•
Skiing/Snowboarding/Trekking
South Island, Queenstown:
•
River Rafting/Skiing/Snowboarding/
Para-gliding/Hang-gliding
Milford Sound:
•
Charter Aeroplanes/Native Forest Walks
Glaciers:
•
Walking expeditions.
Accommodation
10
Accommodation
Accommodation
11

New Zealand
Information about New Zealand
New Zealand is a unique country. Its scenery sets it apart from the rest of the world while its people
have a reputation for friendliness, strength and independence. There is abundant beauty and diversity
in scenery, lifestyle and culture. From rolling green farmlands to barren volcanic desert areas, from
golden beaches with clear blue water to majestic snow covered mountains, New Zealand oers
a sample of every possible landscape within a relatively small country.
New Zealand is a Parliamentary democracy, oering a safe political environment for
international students and visitors. It has a population of only 4.2 million and is similar
in size to the United Kingdom or Japan. New Zealand is primarily a European culture which
has absorbed many of the rich and historic cultural elements from the Maori and Pacific Island
heritages, and now from its rapidly growing multi-cultural Asian communities.
With a well-educated population New Zealanders excel in many areas – arts, science, technology
and manufacturing. Schooling is compulsory until the age of 16, but a steadily increasing number
of students remain at school to gain qualifications for further study at tertiary institutions.
Accommodation
12
Population
New Zealand is an independent nation and a
member of the British Commonwealth. It has
a diverse multicultural population of around 4.2
million people. The majority of New Zealanders
are of British descent, and the largest minority
is New Zealand’s indigenous Maori, who make
up around 14 percent of the population.
Climate
New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of
the Northern hemisphere. This means that
the warmest months are December through
to March, while the coldest are June to August.

The North of New Zealand is sub-tropical and
the South temperate. In summer, the average
maximum temperature ranges between
20-30ºC and in winter between 10-15ºC.
Money
New Zealand currency is made up of dollars
and cents. There are $5, $10, $20, $50 and
$100. There are 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins.
$1 = 100c. You can go to any bank or bureau de
change to exchange foreign currency for New
Zealand money or New Zealand money for
foreign currency. A small commission fee may
be charged for this service.
Most banks are open from 9.30am to 4.30pm
weekdays and are closed on weekends. In some
countries you may be able to open a New
Zealand bank account before you leave home.
This will enable you to transfer funds directly to
your account in New Zealand.

If you haven’t got a New Zealand bank account
before you leave home, you may want to
purchase travellers cheques in New Zealand
dollars. This is safer than carrying large
amounts of cash.

Another option is to bring a bank draft with you.
Once you get to New Zealand you
can easily open a bank account as there
are a range of banking products and

services available.
Hotels, bars and clubs
Lively DJ and band scenes, particularly in the
larger cities, have given New Zealand’s night
life a renewed vibrancy. You will find a variety
of nightclubs, bars, pubs, concerts and live
performances to choose from, and there are
also four casinos, in Auckland, Christchurch,
Dunedin and Queenstown. You need to be at
least 18 years of age to enter bars and nightclubs.
Language
English is the common and ocial language
of New Zealand. Maori is the second ocial
language.
Electricity
Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand
at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels and
motels provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at
20 watts) for electric razors only. For all other
equipment, an adapter/converter is necessary,
unless the item has a multi-voltage option.
Please note that power outlets only accept flat
3 or 2-pin plugs, depending on whether an
earth connection is fitted.
Accommodation
13
Life in New Zealand
There is of course no such thing as a ‘typical’
New Zealand Homestay. Your hosts may be
young, middle aged or retired; their attitudes

may be anything from ‘modern’ to ‘old
fashioned’, and their interests anything from
art to rugby. But they will be kind and friendly,
even if at first a little reserved.
In New Zealand today, couples are not
always married and both partners often work,
whatever the standard of living of the family.
So it is becoming more usual for the whole
family, husband and children, to help with the
household jobs (e.g. washing up). Although
you are not expected to clean the house, it
is considered polite to oer to help with little
things such as setting the table for dinner,
clearing away or drying the dishes and you
may find this helps you to feel more a part
of the family.
If the family has a pet dog or cat (some have
more than one), you may be surprised that they
are treated as important members of the family.
Your Homestay
Your home
The family home may be very dierent from
your own, but it will be clean and comfortable.
Make sure you leave the bathroom and toilet
as clean as you found it. It can be very busy in
the morning when all the family may be getting
ready for work or school, so please be
considerate about the amount of time you
take. A towel should be provided but you
are expected to provide your own soap,

toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner etc.

Your host will clean your room, but you
should keep it tidy and make your own bed.
Please treat your home and room with care.
Be especially careful with cigarettes, ink, make
up, nail polish, or any product which can burn or
stain. Never dye your hair without checking first
if your host has any objections.

If you are unfortunate enough to have an
accident, tell your host family immediately
and oer to pay for the damage. The matter
will be quickly solved and forgotten.
There may be somewhere for you to lock your
valuables in your room. If not, don’t leave them
lying around; ask your family to look after them
Homestay address
Some hosts do not like giving out their
address or phone number. If you need to
open a bank account, buy a mobile phone,
or need a parcel delivered, please give the
school address so that everything can be
sent there for you to collect.
Accommodation
14
Heating
In summer the temperature in your room
may be warm and humid and in winter it
may be colder. Please check with your family

before opening windows or using heaters.
Keys
Most Homestays will give you a set of keys to
let yourself in and out of the house. If you are
not given your own set of keys, they will make
arrangements with you so that you are able to
get in. Please take care not to lose the keys as
you will have to pay for the cost of a
replacement lock if you do.
Food
Your homestay will provide you with breakfast
and dinner seven days a week and lunch on the
weekends and on public holidays. It is a good
idea to go shopping with your family and tell
them what foods you like.
Problems or questions
We hope your stay will be a very happy one,
but if you have any problems please come to
the Accommodation Oce on Level 1, room
1.15. Whatever the problem (even if you think
it is something very small), please tell us so that
we can help you.
Laundry
You should talk to your family about laundry
arrangements. Some families will show you how
to use the washing machine, some families
might want to wash your clothes for you.
Bedroom
You will have your own room, including a desk
for study and reading light, a closet or set of

draws for your clothing and linen for your bed.
Visits by friends
Some hosts may be happy for you to bring your
friends to the house but please ask first. Always
introduce your friends to your host and ask if
they may go to your room. Don’t invite your
friends into the house if your host is not at home.
Leaving accommodation early
Please note that if you decide to leave your
accommodation early, you need to tell the
Accommodation Oce 17 days before you
want to leave. For refunds, please refer to the
Refund Policy in this booklet.
Bathroom
Please ask your family when is the best time
for you to use the shower or bath. Please
remember water is precious and hot water
is expensive. Water is a precious resource in
New Zealand and you will probably be sharing
bathroom facilities so you should not take too
long in the shower. 5-10 minute showers are
recommended. It is a good idea to do your
make-up and hair in your bedroom.
Smoking
Nowadays, most hosts will not allow smoking
indoors. In fact you may find that some hosts
smoke outside themselves, or in only one room.
Please respect the request of your host and
smoke outside, if this is what they have asked
you to do.

Evenings at home
You will be welcome to spend evenings at home
and conversation with your hosts is a very
important part of your stay. They will be
interested to know about you and your country
and you will have plenty of opportunity to chat
with them, particularly during the evening meal.
However, please be careful not to treat your
hosts as teachers and if they are watching TV,
be sensitive about asking too many questions in
the middle of their favourite programmes! Just
as you may need privacy at times, they also
need privacy, so please respect theirs.
You may want to spend time or study in your
room but try not to isolate yourself too much.
Remember noise carries so if you are watching
TV or playing a radio after 22.00 hours and
before 08.00, keep the volume low.
Accommodation
15
Telephone and Internet
All overseas telephone calls should be made
collect or with a calling card. If you would
like to have your own phone, the host family
may charge for this as this is an extra cost.
Please check with your family before using
the telephone and keep the call as short as
possible, as other people may want to use it.
Please respect the amount of time you spend
on the internet (not all night), and check that

the family is not expecting any telephone
calls. The internet may also have additional
costs. Too much time will have a negative eect
on your study.
Money
You should have paid Embassy your first
four weeks of homestay before arriving in
New Zealand. Payments are then made two to
four weeks in advance. A bond is not required.
Coming home
You must come home in the evenings,
according to your age and at a reasonable hour.
Times can be negotiated. If you are younger you
may have to come home earlier; this is because
the school and your family are responsible for
you while you are in New Zealand. Please be
considerate and come home quietly; do not
forget your key if you are given one. Make sure
you shut doors quietly. Do not take a shower or
play the radio or TV loudly while everyone is
sleeping.
Your duties
•
You must clean and tidy your own room
•
Always remember to telephone your
homestay if you are going to be late home
for dinner. Ask your family what time they
have dinner each night
•

Remember that your homestay family
is not a hotel
•
Please say ‘thank-you’ and remember
to assist with small chores when possible.
Residential accommodation
Embassy has agreements with a number of
residential accommodation providers near the
centre. If you would like to apply to live in one of
these providers, please contact the
Accommodation Ocer.
Living in private accommodation
It is not possible to arrange this before you
arrive. Prospective tenants are required to
personally sign an agreed short hold tenancy
agreement and to pay one month’s rent in
advance and one month’s deposit. The
tenancy can be for 6 months or longer.
Most foreign students need someone as a
guarantor. This is someone such as a parent
or friend who is willing to pay the rent if the
student is unable to.
Residential/Private
Some students who are here for a long period
do like to go into private accommodation.
We can provide you with a list of local estate
agents and letting agents. The local paper can
also be a source of property vacancies. Please
note that although we can advise you, we
cannot make arrangements on your behalf. If

you choose to stay in private accommodation,
the school will have no jurisdiction over your
landlord. Therefore, if you have any diculty or
experience any problems, the Accommodation
Ocer will not be able to act on your behalf,
though we will of course tell you where to go
for assistance.
We need to have your address and phone
number in case of emergency.
Practical information
16
Practical
Information
Practical information
17
Studycare Insurance
Why do I need insurance?
StudyCare insurance has been carefully prepared to provide you with extensive insurance cover
while you are a student in New Zealand and while you are in transit between New Zealand and your
country of origin, and also if you choose to travel on short trips to Australia and the Islands
of the South West Pacific. If you have a serious accident or illness, you may need special treatment
or even need to go home. This can cost you a lot of money, and insurance will help you with this.
Please Note: Pre-existing medical conditions. You are NOT automatically covered for pre-existing
conditions. However, cover can be arranged in certain circumstances for a small additional
premium of $40.00. Please contact the college for assessment.
What do I do if I
need to make a claim?
Please see Coco in the Student Welfare
Department. Coco will issue a claim form
and assist you with your application.

If I don’t have
insurance already, can
I buy it at the school?
Yes. Speak to the sta at reception.
Please ensure that you have read and
understood the terms and conditions
of studying at Embassy Auckland. You
can collect a copy from the Embassy
Auckland Prospectus, our website or by
contacting the International Admissions Centre.
New Zealand Qualifications Authority
Students may contact the New Zealand
Qualifications Authority if they experience
diculty with the above procedures. The
nearest oce of the Authority is at: Level 13,
125 The Terrace, Wellington, New Zealand
P.O. Box 160, Wellington, New Zealand
Ph: +64 4 802 3000 Fax: +64 4 802 3112
E:
W: www.nzga.govt.nz
Code of Practice
The Code of Practice for pastoral care of
international students
Embassy Auckland has agreed to observe
and be bound by the Code of Practice for
the Pastoral Care of International Students
published by the Minister of Education.
Copies of the Code are available on
request from this institution or from the
New Zealand Ministry of Education website:

www.minedu.govt.nz/goto/international
It is a New Zealand Government requirement for all students to have appropriate and current
medical and travel insurance for the duration of their planned period of study in New Zealand.
What does StudyCare
protect me against?
The most important areas are:
•
Medical expenses because of illness or injury
•
Cancellation and travel costs because
of illness or injury
•
Theft of money or possessions
•
If you need to leave early for medical reasons,
you will also be able to claim for your unused
course fees. Ask us for full details of what
is covered.
Practical information
18
Immigration
Full details of visa and permit requirements,
advice on rights to employment in New Zealand
while studying, and reporting requirements are
available through the
New Zealand Immigration Service, and
can be viewed on their website at:
www.immigration.govt.nz
Health and travel insurance
Most international students are not entitled

to publicly funded health services while in
New Zealand. If you receive medical treatment
during your visit, you may be liable for the
full costs of that treatment. Full details on
entitlements to publicly funded health services
are available through the Ministry of Health,
and can be viewed on their website at:
www.moh.govt.nz

The Accident Compensation Corporation
provides accident insurance for all New Zealand
citizens, residents and temporary visitors to
New Zealand, but you may still be liable for all
other medical and related costs. Further
information can be viewed on the
ACC website at: www.acc.co.nz

International students must have appropriate
and current medical and travel insurance while
studying in New Zealand.

A summary of the Code of
Practice for the Pastoral Care of
International Students
The Code sets standards for educational
providers to ensure that:
•
high professional standards are maintained
•
the recruitment of international students

is undertaken in an ethical and
responsible manner
•
information supplied to international students
is comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date
•
students are provided with information prior
to entering into any commitments
•
contractual dealings with international
students are conducted in an ethical and
responsible manner
•
the particular needs of international
students are recognised
•
international students under the age
of 18 are in safe accommodation
•
all providers have fair and equitable internal
procedures for the resolution of international
student grievances.

Full details of what is covered can be found in
the Code itself. The Code also establishes the
IEAA and the Review Panel to receive and
adjudicate on student complaints.

How can I contact the IEAA?
You can write to the IEAA at:

The International Education Appeal Authority
Private Bag 47-911, Ponsonby
Auckland, New Zealand
E

Campus contact person regarding the Code
of Practice and/or General Concerns:
Mr Lindsay Spedding – Campus Director
T (09) 306 2606
E
Practical information
19
Cancellation and Refund Policy
1. Embassy Auckland will refund within 30 days
and without deduction, all fees paid where the
student’s application for enrolment is refused
by Embassy Auckland.
2. Embassy Auckland agrees to refund within
30 days and without deduction, all fees paid
where the student produces certified evidence
that the application made by the student for
a student visa has been rejected by the
New Zealand immigration authorities.
3. Embassy agrees to refund within 30 days
of the receipt of written notice of cancellation
by the student (or parent or guardian if the
student is less than 18 years of age) fees paid on
or behalf of the student less the amounts
to be retained as detailed below:
a. For courses exceeding 3 months duration:

If written notice of cancellation is received by the
10th day of the course, Embassy will be entitled
to retain up to 25% of total fees paid based on
actual expenses incurred.
If written notice of cancellation is received
later than the 10th day of the course, there
will be no refund of any monies paid.
b. For courses of 1 to 34 days duration:
If written notice of cancellation is received
by the 2nd day of the course Embassy will retain
50% of total fees paid.
If written notice of cancellation is received later
than the 2nd day of the course, there will be no
refund of any monies paid.
c. For courses of 35 days to 3 months duration:
If written notice of cancellation is received by the
5th day of the course Embassy will retain 25% of
total fees paid.
If written notice of cancellation is received
later than the 5th day of the course, there will be
no refund of any monies paid.
Cancellations & Refunds
4. Embassy may cancel the student’s enrolment
should the student breach any
of the school’s rules of if their behaviour is
deemed unacceptable by Embassy:
a. If the student’s enrolment is cancelled by the
10th day of the course, Embassy will be entitled
to retain up to 25% of total fees paid based on
actual expenses incurred.

b. If the student’s enrolment is cancelled later
than the 10th day of the course, there will be no
refund of any monies paid.
5. Embassy has an arrangement with
the Public Trust, an independent Trustee
who acts on behalf of students for our fee
protection scheme.
6. The Public Trust holds in Trust on behalf
of students a bank guarantee and a cash
deposit to ensure that student fees are at all
times protected in accordance with NZQA
Student Fee Protection requirements.
7. In the event of the voluntary or regulatory
closure of Embassy and/or its courses, Public
Trust will reimburse students for course and
other fees paid but not used at the date
of course closure.
Student Refunds
and Exchange Rates
Embassy will invoice students in
New Zealand dollars (or US dollars
if the home country does not accept
New Zealand currency).
The market exchange rate is checked every
Monday by Study Group Central and a decision
is made as to whether the invoicing rate should
be changed or not.
Embassy will refund the total amount of
New Zealand dollars received from the
student upon payment. If the bank receiving

the payment does not accept New Zealand
dollars, Embassy will convert to a currency
the bank will accept at the best rate possible.
Practical information
20
Student Grievance/Complaints Policy
In the event of a dispute between an individual student and Embassy,
procedures are in place to facilitate the resolution of the dispute.
A summary of these procedures follows:
1. Code of conduct, attendance and discipline
Students are expected to abide by the terms and conditions of enrolment and the published rules
and code of conduct of Embassy. Disciplinary procedures will be applied in the event of a breach of
these rules. All sta are expected to apply Embassy policy and rules fairly and without favour, but if
a student considers that this has not occurred, the student may refer the matter to a senior sta
member. If the student is dissatisfied with the decision, he/she may ultimately refer the matter to
the Principal for determination. Independent external mediation may also be sought if the matter
cannot be resolved within the school.
2. Service and academic programmes
In the event of a student complaint concerning the quality of the service or teaching provided
by the school, the student will report the matter to a person in a position of authority within the
school. The complaint may either be dealt with by that person, or referred to the Principal for
resolution. The Principal will confer with the parties in dispute, and the decision of the Principal
will be final. This decision will be conveyed in writing to the parties. If the student remains
dissatisfied with the outcome, he/she may seek independent external mediation.
3. Contractual and financial issues
Matters relating to the interpretation of the Application, or the payment or refund of money, are
stated clearly in the Prospectus. Any queries relating to course fees and other charges payable
to Embassy (or refunds) will initially be dealt with by the Finance and Administration sta. If the
student is dissatisfied with the decision, the matter will be referred to the Finance Director of
Study Group for determination. If either the action taken or the outcome does not satisfy the

student, they may write to the Managing Director, who will in turn convey a decision
in writing to the student.
Student Complaints
Practical information
21
Fire Procedure
Medical Care
If you see or suspect a fire
•
Sound the alarm
•
Leave the building at once
•
Once outside, move to the assembly point.
If the fire alarm is sounded
•
Leave the building at once
Once outside, move to the assembly point
If you suspect that there is someone still in the
building, inform a member of Embassy sta or
any fire warden immediately
Do not take risks
Do not return to the building for
any reason until authorised to do so.
Assembly points for fire
drills and emergencies
Building – Embassy
Evacuation point – via main doors
Assembly area – corner of Symonds Street and
K’Road or the corner of Liverpool and City Road

(Assembly and evacuation points are indicated
on the notices in each classroom).
Do not set o a fire
alarm or fire extinguisher
unless there is a fire.
Medical insurance
You should already have taken out medical
insurance, either in your own country or with
StudyCare (the Study Group insurance
package) before you arrive. In most cases, your
insurance will cover treatment by a doctor but
does not cover you if you need to see a dentist.
When you see a doctor, you will need to pay at
the time of the appointment. Keep the receipt
because you can claim some money back. The
Welfare Oce sta will advise you about this.
If you have your own medical insurance, you
will need to refer to the information they have
given you.
First Aid
We have qualified first aid sta on the premises.
Please ask at the Student Welfare Oce or
Reception if you need assistance
Ambulance
If you need an ambulance in an
emergency, dial 111.
Medical Certificates
If the doctor says you need time o school,
please ask for a medical certificate and bring
it to the Welfare Oce on your first day back at

school. You do not have to pay extra to get a
medical certificate.
Practical information
22
VISA Information
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is a government authority responsible for issuing permits and
visas to enter New Zealand. Students are advised to contact the nearest New Zealand Embassy
or High Commission to obtain information on visa regulations.
Part-time work rights for English Language students
As a student visa holder, you may apply to INZ for part time work subject to the following
conditions:
• All English language students who are studying at a University or a Category 1 provider, in a
programme of study of at least 14 weeks, will be allowed to work part-time while studying.
• You must not work for more than 20 hours per week.Student visas may be renewed at the campus
using the on-line immigration service, this will cost $170.00. All enquiries please see reception.
Immigration
Personal belongings
Please keep your belongings with you at all
times. Do not leave anything unattended at
any time.
How to avoid being
attacked
Don’t make yourself an obvious target by
carrying equipment such as language
school bags or similar items. There is safety
in numbers: try to stay with your friends. Don’t
stay unnecessarily in areas where problems are
most likely to occur. Make sure you stay in well
lit areas where there are plenty of people
around. Most attacks take place in areas

of darkness away from public view.
You may find that you are approached by
persons asking for money. Our advice to
students is to politely refuse any such request.
Safety & Law
Stealing
Every year a minority of students disgrace
themselves, their parents and their country
by stealing, particularly from shops. Stealing
anything is a serious crime for which you could
be taken to court, then fined, sent to prison
or sent back to your country. If you steal, your
leaders and parents will be told and we will
make arrangements for you to be sent home.
In New Zealand, as everywhere, there are
people who steal your money and property
if you give them a chance. Look after your
purses, wallets, handbags, money and other
valuable property. Do not leave them where
they could be easily stolen. Thieves love
careless people!
Practical information
23
Can I Drive In New Zealand?
Yes – if you have a current overseas driving licence or a current international driving permit,
you can drive for one year after you first arrive in New Zealand.
If you do not have an overseas driving licence or an international driving permit you cannot drive.
You must apply for a New Zealand driving licence. You can only drive the types of vehicles covered by
your overseas driving licence or international driving permit.
Driving in New Zealand

Who Doesn’t Have To
Sit The Driving Test?
If your licence comes from Australia, Canada,
Norway, a member state of the European
Union, South Africa, Switzerland or the United
States of America and is current (or expired
within the past 12 months), and you’ve held
that licence for more than two years, you don’t
have to sit the practical test. (You still need to
pass the theory test. If you don’t pass the
theory test, you cannot drive.)
What Else Do I
Need To Know?
Carry your licence with you when driving.
In New Zealand you must carry your driving
licence or permit at all times when you are
driving. If your overseas licence or permit is
not in English, we suggest you carry an ocial
translation with you (a translation from an
ocial source, e.g. a translation service or
language centre).
What Happens If I Don’t
Apply For A New Zealand
Driving Licence?
If you do not apply for a New Zealand
driving licence within one year of arriving
in this country you will be considered an
unlicensed driver. You could be charged
by the Police if you are caught driving,
and you may not be able to get car insurance.

When Do I Have To
Get A New Zealand
Driving Licence?
You can drive using an overseas licence or
an international driving permit for a maximum
of one year after you first arrive. You must
then convert your overseas licence to a New
Zealand driving licence. Apply for a conversion
to a New Zealand driving licence BEFORE
the year has passed, to make sure you have one
in time.
You will have to pass a theory test and,
depending on the country you have come
from, pass a practical driving test as well.
Forms to apply for an overseas licence
conversion are available from LTSA driver
licensing agents. Driver licensing agents are
participating oces of:
• New Zealand Automobile Association
• Vehicle Testing New Zealand
• Vehicle Inspection New Zealand
• On Road New Zealand.
Why Do I Have To
Sit A Theory Test?
All drivers must know the road rules, what
the road signs mean and how to drive safely.
Learning the road rules is particularly important
because of our unique ‘Give Way’ rule (you must
give way to vehicles coming from the opposite
direction and turning right, when you are

turning left). You can find out more about this
rule and others when you study the Road Code.
For more information about the New Zealand
road code, please go to
www.ltsa.govt.nz/roadcode
Practical information
24
What Happens If I Fail The
Theory Or Practical Tests?
If you can still use your overseas driving licence
or international driving permit (because you
have been in New Zealand for less than one
year), you can still drive. You can apply to sit the
test again. If you have been in New Zealand for
more than one year and you fail the theory test,
you must not drive until you pass it. If you fail
the practical test you must be accompanied by
a supervisor (someone who holds and has held
a full driving licence for at least two years),
while driving, until you pass. The supervisor
must sit in the front passenger seat.
Roadside licence
suspension
Roadside licence suspension means the
Police seize a driver’s licence and immediately
suspend them from driving for 28 days, in
addition to any other charges. This can
happen if you:
• Are caught driving at more than double
the legal alcohol limit

• Are caught speeding at more than 50km/h
above the limit (other than by speed cameras)
• Refuse to supply a blood sample to be tested
for excess blood alcohol.
Eyesight checking
If you cannot see properly, you cannot drive
safely. Your eyesight will be checked:
• When you apply for a new licence
• Each time you renew your licence
• When you apply for a new licence class
or endorsement.
An eyesight machine will check how well you
can see at a distance and to the sides. If the
check detects a problem you will need to
present an eyesight or medical certificate
before your licence can be issued.
Does Everyone Sit
The Practical Test?
No. Some countries require similar driving
skills and have similar licensing systems to New
Zealand’s. The law recognises that drivers from
these countries usually have adequate driving
skills, and they may not have to sit the practical
driving test.
Other countries have very dierent driver
licensing systems. Where there are significant
dierences in the way drivers obtain licences we
require people from those countries to show
that they can drive safely. This helps ensure our
roads are safer for everyone.

If you are unlicensed, are warned not to drive
and you are then caught driving by the Police,
the vehicle you are driving will be seized at
the roadside and impounded for 28 days.
If you are an unlicensed driver you should not
be driving. You have not proven that you know
and understand New Zealand’s road rules and
you are putting yourself and others at risk.
Vehicle classes
Dierent types of vehicles are grouped in
‘classes’. Cars and other light-weight motor
vehicles are Class 1. Classes 2-5 cover dierent
types of trucks, while Class 6 covers
motorcycles. Most people will sit the theory and
practical tests for Class 1 vehicles.
If you rode a motorcycle or drove trucks before
coming to New Zealand and want to do so here,
make sure you know which vehicle class you
need – there are dierent theory tests and
practical tests for dierent classes of vehicle.
What about motorcycles
and heavy vehicles?
The information in this factsheet applies to
licences for motorcycles and heavy motor
vehicles as well as cars.
Practical information
25
Postal Information
Post oces
Post oces are usually open between

9.00am and 5.00pm from Monday to Friday.
The closest post oce is located 5 minutes walk
from the Centre along Karangahape Road.
Airmail
Letters and parcels sent by airmail usually
take 3 to 4 days to reach cities throughout New
Zealand & Australia and between 4 to 7 days to
destinations throughout Asia, Europe and the
Americas.
Stamps
Stamps can be bought at post oces, as
well as most newsagents and many shops.
Prohibited items
Packets must not contain articles or substances
prohibited by various regulations. Prohibitions
vary from country to country
and sometimes apply to ordinary items.
Please check at the local post oce.
Surface mail
Letters, small packets and printed papers
can also be sent by surface mail. This is much
cheaper than airmail but takes a little longer
– normally 1 week to reach New Zealand cities
and up to 5 weeks to arrive in destinations
throughout Asia, Europe and the Americas.
Roadside vehicle
impoundment
Roadside vehicle impoundment means the
Police can seize and impound a vehicle for
28 days. A fee will have to be paid before the

vehicle is released. This can happen if you:
• drive while disqualified
• drive while your licence is suspended
or revoked
• drive while you are unlicensed and have
been previously forbidden to drive until
you get a licence
• drive while your licence has expired and when
you have previously been forbidden
to drive.
Car Insurance
If you are purchasing a car, please
remember to take out “Vehicle Insurance”.
There are a number of insurance companies
to choose from.
Where can I
find out more?
Drivers who are new to our roads, people
learning to drive and people wanting to gain
a new licence class need to refer to the Road
Code. You can get a copy of the Road Code
from bookstores, driver licensing agents or
a public library. The Driving Safely in New
Zealand pamphlet gives a brief overview of
the road rules for drivers who are new to our
roads. It outlines the road signs and gives some
helpful conversion tables and travel times. LTSA
factsheets on a variety of road safety topics are
available on LTSA website at www.ltsa.govt.nz
For more information contact the Land

Transport Safety Authority (freephone
0800 822 422) or visit the website
(www.ltsa.govt.nz).