Meet Student: Nguyen from Vietnam

We interviewed Nguyen, a year 11 student at Whangarei Girls’ High School, who came to New Zealand from Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City in August 2022.

What made you choose Northland?

To be honest, my aunty lives in Northland so I just came to Northland and stayed with her. But I think my aunt chose this place to live because Northland is so peaceful and has many nice views.

What do you love most about studying at school in New Zealand?

It’s hard to find out one thing that I like most, but I’d love to say that the way students can choose the subject for their term interests me a lot.

What are your favourite experiences in Northland? 

When I came here, I had a chance to join a small trip with 5 international students of WGHS, we went to Waitangi. It was a memorable trip because I knew more about Maori culture, and watched them dance and sing their traditional songs. I think until now, that was my favourite experience in Northland.

What are your interests, sports and hobbies?

My favourite sports are badminton and Thai boxing. In my spare time, I usually read books, surf social media, and watch youtube. 

What is your favourite local place to hang out with friends?

The fact that since I came here, I have never hung out with friends, I just go around town with my aunt’s family. I think my favourite local place is Town Basin because it has many restaurants and is crowded. 

2023 Update

Congratulations to Nguyen, who has been offered a place in the Bachelor of Nursing at NorthTec | Te Pūkenga. She will be starting in Feb 2023. We’re so happy she’s staying in Northland!

Read more about Whangarei Girls’ High School