Work, learn and travel in Nelson

ANTON MEYER

For more than 15 years, a Nelson-based company has been helping German visitors make the most of the region.

‘Auszeit Neuseeland’ helps young people to organise their year abroad in New Zealand.

Young people can access different experiences depending on the individual, such as internships, volunteering, work, and travel.

Benny Horst, who is originally from Stuttgart, Germany, came to New Zealand for the first time in 2007 after university. He then travelled all over New Zealand doing language courses in Christchurch and Auckland. After that, he returned to Germany for two years to gain work experience.

Benny returned to New Zealand at the end of 2009 and was looking to stay longer. He had the chance to take over the Auszeit Neuseeland programme in Nelson. At that time, it was a small programme that had started just two years earlier.

He now owns the company, and today more than 100 participants a year are supported by Benny and his team.

The programme supports young people with finding internships and volunteering, usually for around two to three months.

These are often combined with  language courses beforehand.

Participants stay with host families to give them a real sense of what it’s like to live in Aotearoa. The working holiday is Auszeit Neuseelands largest and most popular programme.

Visitors begin planning their stay six-to-eight months before the year abroad with the team.

Assistance is offered with organising the trip from searching for flights, to helping with credit card applications and a packing lists.

New arrivals take part in a two-day introduction seminar where they are told some Kiwi basics such as how to buy a car and the best places to visit in New Zealand.

“The most enjoyable part is seeing how the participants develop during their time abroad,” says Benny.

“We are a bridge between Germany and New Zealand and are able to put ourselves in people’s shoes. We are there to help.”

Two previous participants have returned positive feedback.

Lina Sahr and Marieke Rabe are currently doing the Cambridge course at the Nelson English Centre. Both are here on sabbatical in New Zealand and have, so far, improved their English through the language school and made many friends along the way.

“The team are very experienced, and you can always rely on them when you have any problems,” says Marieke.

“I think it’s a great experience and you learn so much about yourself and to be independent.”

Lina agrees.

“You get to know so many different people from other countries with different cultures,” she says.

Benny says they are always looking for host families, work placements and volunteering opportunities. Go here to find out more information.