15 July 2026
Manarsha moved from Russia to New Zealand with her children and completed the New Zealand Certificate in English Language (Academic) (Level 4) at Otago Polytechnic. In four months, she improved her English from PTE 42 to IELTS 6.0. She is now planning to apply for a PhD.
Why We Chose New Zealand
We considered Spain, Australia and New Zealand.
First Impressions of New Zealand
The first thing that impressed me was the incredible nature. But the people surprised me even more. From my first days here until now, I have continued to be amazed by how friendly, open and willing to help everyone is — even when you are a complete stranger.
It is very easy and comfortable to communicate with people, and that is exactly what helped me quickly feel at home here.
Life in New Zealand Now
Life in New Zealand feels like freedom and ease to me. I feel at home here, almost as though I have always lived here.
Of course, moving and adapting to a new country, especially with children, is not an easy journey, but for me it has definitely been worth it.
Studying at Otago Polytechnic
Otago Polytechnic is an excellent education provider. The English courses are taught to a very high standard. The tutors are genuinely committed to their work and help students achieve results.
I particularly liked the atmosphere. Everything here is designed to support students, not only with their studies but also in everyday life. You can feel the genuine care, personal attention and very welcoming environment.
The course was more or less what I expected.
How the Study Process Works
The language courses are organised in a very convenient way. Classes take place four days a week, from 9 am to 3 pm, in different classrooms and buildings located close to one another. There are two breaks during the day, including a lunch break.
The first classes introduce students to New Zealand and Dunedin. Students receive a great deal of useful practical information that helps them adapt more quickly.
The lessons themselves involve plenty of communication, group work and practical activities, so the course is intensive but never boring.
I would also particularly like to mention the atmosphere on campus. The tutors and other staff are very open and regularly organise barbecues and other events for students, which helps newcomers settle into their new environment more quickly.
The course was genuinely useful for me. I started with a PTE score of 42, which is approximately equivalent to IELTS 5.0, and after just four months I achieved IELTS 6.0. The result fully met my expectations.
Would I Recommend the Course to Other Students?
Yes, definitely. The course fully met my expectations: high-quality teaching, a friendly atmosphere and constant support from the tutors and other staff.
It is an excellent place not only to improve your English but also to adapt comfortably to life in New Zealand.
Part-Time Work During Study
No, I did not work part-time during my studies because I have young children, and in New Zealand they cannot be left at home alone.
Plans After Completing the Programme
I am not working at the moment. I looked for a job while I was studying but could not find anything suitable. The course was also quite intensive.
I am now planning to apply for a PhD.
What You Should Know Before Moving
From my own experience, I have realised how important it is to learn as much as possible in advance about the country you are planning to move to: everyday life, the education system, the visa process and the different ways events may unfold.
It is helpful not only to have a Plan A but also to understand what alternatives are available if things do not go according to the original plan.
That is why having a good education consultant is so important. It should be someone with up-to-date information and real experience, who can find solutions in unusual situations and support you at every stage of the process.
When you have a specialist like that by your side, the entire process becomes much calmer and easier to understand. This support is truly invaluable.
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know in advance which consultant will genuinely be professional and provide a high-quality service. That is why I decided to write this review — perhaps it will help people who are only beginning to plan their move.
Before coming to New Zealand, I had received two visa refusals for other countries and had worked with other consultants. During the process, it became clear that they were not paying enough attention to detail, did not feel responsible for the outcome and did not support their clients in the way they should. As a result, I lost time, money and energy.
I would really like other people to avoid this kind of experience and find a specialist they can genuinely trust.
The right education consultant is not simply someone who prepares documents. They are a partner who helps you complete the entire journey towards your goal.
My Experience with Kiwi Education
Kiwi Education is one of those services that remains consistently helpful at every stage — from a simple consultation many years ago to comprehensive assistance with my admission to a language course and my children’s enrolment in schools.
I am incredibly grateful for your support throughout the entire process. Even now, as I prepare to apply for a PhD, you are still there and always ready to help.
This is exactly what makes Kiwi Education different. No other agency I have worked with has ever left such a positive impression on me.
Denis, thank you so much! Thank you for always being available, helping me find solutions and giving me confidence. Thank you for your professionalism, responsiveness and genuine desire to help.
I am very happy that I chose Kiwi Education all those years ago, and I am delighted to recommend you to everyone planning to study and move to New Zealand.
I wish you and the entire team every success, continued growth and as many happy students as possible!
Instagram: @m_narsha.nz
