What language is spoken in New Zealand?

New Zealand offers a perfect environment for those who want Learn a language abroad, especially for Brazilians who want to master English in a safe, welcoming country with excellent teaching quality.

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English: the language of your studies

English is the predominant language in New Zealand, spoken by over 96% of the population. For exchange students, this means that you will be immersed in a 100% English-speaking environment, significantly accelerating your learning.

All universities, language schools, and higher education institutions operate in English. If you're considering Do an exchange in Auckland, you will find some of the best English schools in the world, with advanced methodologies and highly qualified teachers.

New Zealand English in practice

New Zealand English has its peculiarities, but don't worry: it's perfectly understandable. The kiwi accent may seem challenging in the early days, but most exchange students adapt quickly. In fact, many students find that getting used to the New Zealand accent improves their ability to understand any variation of English.

New Zealand universities are recognized worldwide for the quality of teaching in English, offering specific programs for international students that include additional language support when necessary.

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Favorable environment for international students

New Zealand has become increasingly attractive to Brazilian students. The country recently launched the International Education Going for Growth Plan, demonstrating its commitment to expanding opportunities for exchange students. An important change that takes effect in November 2025 allows students to work up to 25 hours a week, expanding the possibilities of livelihood and professional experience during their studies.

This increase in working hours allows for even greater immersion in the English language, as you will have more opportunities to practice in diverse professional environments. For those seeking study and work in New Zealand, this is excellent news that makes the experience even more enriching.

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Benefits for English learners

New Zealand is considered one of the best destinations for learning English for several practical reasons:

Full immersion: Unlike some countries where other languages compete with English, in New Zealand you will be constantly exposed to the language. Whether at the grocery store, public transport, work, or university, all interactions will be in English.

Quality of teaching: The country has strict educational standards. Language schools are accredited by the government and follow proven effective methodologies.

Cozy environment: New Zealanders are known for their patience with international students. They understand that you're learning and generally make an effort to speak more slowly when necessary.

Expanded job opportunities: With the recent expansion of working hours allowed for students, you will have more time to practice English in real professional settings, accelerating your learning and increasing your monthly income.

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Language preparation: how much English do you need?

For language courses

If your goal is to take an English course, you can start at almost any level. The schools offer classes from absolute beginner to advanced. The most important thing is to have motivation to learn.

For universities

To enter New Zealand universities, you will need to prove proficiency in English through tests such as:

• IELTS: They generally require scores between 6.0 and 7.5, depending on the course
• TOEFL: Minimum score ranges from 80 to 100 points
• Some preparatory courses: They can accept intermediate levels with linguistic supplementation

As we detail in our Complete guide to doing a master's degree abroad, language preparation is fundamental to academic success.

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What to expect in the first few weeks

Adaptation to the accent

The New Zealand accent has unique characteristics. The vowels “i” and “e” may sound different, and some words are pronounced in a particular way. For example, “fish and chips” might sound like “fush and chups.” But calm down: in two or three weeks you will be understanding perfectly.

Local vocabulary

New Zealanders use some expressions of their own that may be confusing at first:

• “Sweet as” = perfect, great
• “Yeah, nah” = no (very common expression)
• “Chur bro” = thank you, man
• “She'll be right” = everything will be fine

Useful slang in the academic environment

• “Uni” = university
• “Tutorial” or “Tute” = practical class/seminar
• “Assignment” = academic work
• “Lecturer” = university professor

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Māori: Enriching Your Cultural Experience

While not necessary for your studies, knowing a few words in Māori can greatly enrich your experience. The Māori language is officially recognized and is present in everyday life through place names and cultural expressions.

Basic words like “kia ora” (hello/thank you) and “Aotearoa” (New Zealand in Māori) are widely used and demonstrate respect for local culture. As we explored in our article on The impact of Maori culture, this cultural heritage is part of New Zealand's national identity.

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Practicing opportunities outside the classroom

At work

For students in study and work programs, the professional environment offers valuable opportunities to practice English in real contexts. With the extension to 25 working hours a week, you will have even more time to develop your language skills while gaining valuable professional experience. The most common jobs for exchange students (hospitality, retail, tourism) provide constant contact with native speakers.

In the community

New Zealand has a strong community culture. Participating in local activities, sports clubs, or volunteering is an excellent way to practice the language while making genuine friends.

Through homestay

Living with a New Zealand family significantly speeds up learning. You practice English daily in everyday situations, from conversations over breakfast to discussions about TV shows.

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Differences between cities

When choosing The best cities in New Zealand for exchange, consider the linguistic peculiarities:

Auckland: Greater diversity of accents due to the international population. Great for getting used to different variations of English.

Wellington: More formal English, ideal for those seeking more traditional academic or professional experience.

Christchurch: Accent considered more “neutral”, making it easier for beginners to understand.

Dunedin: Historic but perfectly understandable Scottish influence with a vibrant university environment.

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Technological resources to accelerate learning

Local apps

• MetService: Weather app with local weather vocabulary
• AT Mobile: Auckland transport with specific terminologies
• TradeMe: Local marketplace for learning business English

New Zealand media

• TVNZ OnDemand: Local programs with an authentic accent
• RNZ: National radio with news and podcasts
• Stuff.co.nz: Top news site for current vocabulary

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Professional and linguistic perspectives

Mastering New Zealand English opens doors not only locally but globally. English learned in New Zealand is recognized worldwide, and international experience significantly enhances your curriculum.

With the new policies favorable to international students, including longer working hours allowed, many exchange students discover career opportunities that they had not imagined. The tourism, education, and technology sectors are especially promising for those who are fluent in Portuguese and English.

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Practical tips to maximize your learning

Before you travel

• Watch New Zealand movies (“Hunt for the Wilderpeople”, “What We Do in the Shadows”)
• Listen to local podcasts
• Familiarize yourself with basic expressions

In the first few weeks

• Don't be ashamed to ask them to repeat
• Write down new expressions you hear
• Practice with international colleagues too

For continuous progression

• Participate in extracurricular activities
• Keep a diary in English
• Work while you study to practice in real contexts

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Linguistic support in institutions

Universities

• International student support centers
• Specific tutoring for non-natives
• Preparatory courses included in some programs
• Writing centers for academic support

Language schools

• Initial assessment for an appropriate class
• Weekly progress monitoring
• Cultural activities included
• Individual support when needed

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Be Easy

A Be Easy understands that choosing the right destination for your English studies or university career is an important decision. Our expert team keeps up with all changes in New Zealand's education policies and offers up-to-date guidance to help you make the most of the growing opportunities the country offers. From preparation in Brazil to support during your studies, we take care of every detail so that you focus on what really matters: your learning and growth. Contact us and discover how to transform your dream of mastering English into an extraordinary reality in New Zealand!