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Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation

by: Pacific Discovery

9.4 (35)Verified

Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia....

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Program Highlights

Canyoning in the Blue Mountains: Navigate waterfalls, jump into pools, and rappel through rugged terrain, all while building trust and teamwork

Maori cultural immersion: Learn indigenous stories, attend workshops, and participate in traditional ceremonies to deepen your understanding of Aotearoa’s heritage

Conservation projects on both continents: Help with dune restoration, native habitat protection, and wildlife conservation alongside local partners

Snorkel & surf in Australia: Dive into reef life, ride waves, and discover marine biodiversity

Wilderness treks in New Zealand: Hike iconic routes through mountainous terrain, forest, and alpine landscapes

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Blue Mountains, Australia
  • Brisbane, Australia
  • Byron Bay, Australia
  • Crescent Head, Australia
  • Fraser Island, Australia
  • See more
Availability
Year(s) Offered2026, 2027, 2028Duration:
  • 9-12 Weeks
Cost Per Week$1500-2000
Age Requirement:18-20
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Canoeing
Subjects & Courses:
  • Australian Studies
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Culture
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details

Awards

2025 Finalist - Innovation in DiversityGoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Gap Year AbroadTop Rated Provider 2023 - Gap YearPeople’s Choice Award 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 FinalistInnovation in Sustainability 2023 WinnerTop Rated Gap Year Provider 2022Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media Finalist 2022Top Rate Organization 2021 - Gap Year

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.4

Total Reviews

35

The group experience allowed him to travel to a new country in a safe environment without family.

April 21, 2025by: Natalie DunnProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
8

The New Zealand and Australia trip was a wonderful experience for our son. The group experience allowed him to travel to a new country in a safe environment without family. He wanted to travel independently but we wanted him to learn within a safe environment first. Pacific Discovery has given him the skills knowledge to now go out and travel on his own.

Changed my life in a positive way!

April 05, 2025by: Julien TulpProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
9

I have been on the Australia/New Zealand gap semester, had an amazing time here did so many cool tings, had amazing instructors and learned so much about a lot of things and it also changed my life in an positive way! I can really recommend it for people how really love to travel and learn and enjoy doing outdoor activity’s

Just do it

December 27, 2024by: Sophia Gidwani - United StatesProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
9

The 70 days I spent pacific discovery in Aus/NZ were absolutely unforgettable. My instructors were absolutely incredible people. Both were so knowledgeable and so qualified to lead us. The program was the perfect mix of freedom and structure. It was a great mix of camping/hostels. I learned so much about myself and the world I live in. I gained more than I could have ever imagined. New Zealand is the most incredible place I have ever been and you will never want to leave. If you are at all considering this program, DO IT. There is so much joy on the other side of the fear holding you back

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Blue Mountains, Australia
  • Brisbane, Australia
  • Byron Bay, Australia
  • Crescent Head, Australia

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Canoeing

Availability

Years Offered: 2026, 2027, 2028

Duration:
  • 9-12 Weeks
Terms Available:
  • Fall
  • Spring
Gap Year Timing:

    Age Requirement

    18-20

    Guidelines

    All Nationalities

    This Program is also open to Group

    Cost per week

    $1500-2000

    Program Cost Includes

    • Tuition & Fees
    • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
    • All Program Activity Costs
    • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Accommodation Options

    • Group living
    • Other

    Qualifications & Experience

      Language Skills Required

    • English

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Phone/Video Interview
    • Online Application
    • Written Application
    • Other
    Pacific Discovery

    Pacific Discovery

    9.4Verified

    Ready to Learn More?

    Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your si...

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