Sign In / Register
The Rotary Youth Exchange programme is inviting applications from students interested in a three-month overseas exchange, between December 2026 and February 2027.
District outbound coordinator Jenn Wong, who has been involved in the programme for over 10 years, believes it is an opportunity for students who have never travelled abroad to learn about different cultures and share New Zealand culture.
“We welcome applications from all students who are keen to build international goodwill and understanding, including those from the Mangawhai, Waipu and Maungaturoto areas and beyond,” Wong says.
“We’ve had some excellent students from this region in the past and we have also hosted outstanding international students, with many attending Otamatea High School.”
This is the first time in many years that Rotary has offered the short-term programme of three months rather than a year,
As part of the application process, students must submit a list of three preferred countries from the following options – Austria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand and the United States. Final placements are based on the best match for each student’s profile. For destinations where English is not the primary language, students are encouraged to have studied or have a basic level of the local language, although this is not a mandatory requirement. During their stay, students must attend school overseas, usually at a level equivalent to their age group.
“An overseas experience is an exciting opportunity, and many students embrace it with resilience and courage. Most students return home with greater independence, new friendships, maturity and a global outlook,” Wong said.
The Rotary Club will also host an information evening via Zoom on Wednesday March 25, from 8pm to 9pm. Students and parents or caregivers are invited to register through the website and are welcome to submit any questions in advance.
Exchanges are open to students aged 15 to 17, who live in Northland or Auckland. The cost ranges from $8000 to $10,000, with all expenses included. Applications must be submitted online at www.nzrotaryexchange.com before May 1.
