Global Campus Trial (OSIP) New Zealand Program | Two Weeks Learning from Nature and Māori Culture

As part of the Global Campus Trial (OSIP) Program, 17 students participated in a two-week short-term study abroad program at Lincoln University in Christchurch, New Zealand.

During the program, students attended classes focusing on English conversation, academic writing, and presentation skills. In addition to developing their English proficiency, they learned about New Zealand’s culture, lifestyle, tourist attractions, and food culture. Through discussions conducted in English, students compared New Zealand and Japan, strengthening their practical communication skills. They also learned how to write polite and professional emails in English and explored effective presentation techniques while working collaboratively on group presentations. Furthermore, students gained a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s cultural background through lessons on Māori culture, history, and language.

As part of the extracurricular program, students visited sites such as the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the International Antarctic Centre, and the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where they learned about New Zealand’s rich natural environment and native wildlife. They also experienced the famous Waimakariri River jet boat ride, an activity that originated in the Christchurch region, allowing them to enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery firsthand. In addition, students deepened their understanding of Indigenous history and traditions through a Māori cultural experience and learned about everyday life and food culture in New Zealand through visits to local supermarkets.

During their stay, students experienced New Zealand life through a homestay program. Although many encountered differences in food, customs, and daily routines, they actively asked questions when faced with challenges and successfully built relationships with their host families through communication. Beyond the classroom, students also took every opportunity to interact with local students, learning the importance of taking initiative and developing a greater appreciation for cultural diversity.

Lincoln University also hosted a Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Event designed to promote interaction between local and visiting students. Participants worked alongside local students from the planning stage through to event management, exchanging ideas and collaborating to make the event a success. During the event, they introduced traditional Japanese games such as rubber-band gun shooting, tabletop sumo wrestling, and bean-picking challenges, sharing the appeal of Japanese culture with many students.

As the culmination of the program, students delivered final presentations in English on the differences between Japanese and New Zealand culture and lifestyles. Through this experience, they enhanced not only their English communication skills but also their understanding of diverse values and cultures, broadening their international perspectives.

It is hoped that the knowledge and experiences gained through this program will contribute to the students’ future academic and professional development, enabling them to further grow as proactive individuals with a strong global mindset and cross-cultural understanding.