New Zealand in Summer 2010

High Adventure--Great Companions--Intense Learning

May 17-June 11, 2010. This 3.5-week, 6-credit experiential program uses the theme of sustainable development to explore the relationship between people and their natural environment. New Zealand's isolation, after its separation from the ancient Gondwanaland millions of years ago, has left this island nation with a unique natural heritage. Imagine visiting snow-capped mountains rising 12,000 feet out of the sea; cruising the largest fiords in the world; hiking massive glaciers carving their way to the ocean; experiencing close encounters with flora and fauna unknown elsewhere in the world; kayaking to deserted beaches through turquoise waters; and discovering the stunning scenery of the Lord of the Rings. New Zealand's South Island is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Our experiential education focuses on learning through guided action. Students spend about 70% of their time traveling the stunning national parks, forests, wildlife reserves, coastlines, and islands of New Zealand under the guidance of knowledgeable field professionals.

We spend 7-days in the garden city of Christchurch taking classes with leading experts from New Zealand universities (e.g. Lincoln University and the University of Canterbury), government departments (e.g. Department of Conservation), iwi (Maori tribes), and scientific research bodies (e.g. Landcare Research). This is followed a 2.5-week field study of the South Island. A typical itinerary includes Mount Cook, the wild West Coast, swimming with dolphins at Kaikoura, a guided kayak of Abel Tasman National Park, a guided hike on Fox Glacier, a sheep farm visit, a visit to a Maori marae, and a boat cruise on Milford Sound.

Students will earn 6 upper-division credits in Biology 494A and 494B, Sustaining Human Societies and the Natural Environment (crosslisted as Geography 494A and 494B, and Environmental Science 494A and 494B).

What do students say about the program? Here's one comment: "Studying abroad in New Zealand was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It was a truly unforgettable experience, and I am a stronger person because of it.Since most of our time was spent in the "field" rather than in a classroom, we got to see and do a lot. The program was jam-packed with thrilling activities that supplemented course lectures and highlighted the beautiful New Zealand scenery.

“The New Zealand program is great for anyone who is seeking adventure, independence, self-discovery and experiential learning!"

Click here for more details and for application materials.

Click here for syllabus and tentative itinerary.

Professor Cam Muir of UH Hilo is lead faculty for the New Zealand study adventure. A specialist in conservation genetics, he specializes in the ecological genetics of Hawaiian fauna. A prolific researcher, Dr. Muir is also an experienced and enthusiastic teacher who engages his students fully in both book learning and field study.

DR. MUIR at Laupahoehoe Bay, Hawaiʻi Island.