Hallo Deutschland!
By Elaine Kelly | Posted: Tuesday December 2, 2025
Our four NZ/German exchange students have recently landed in Germany. Committed to improving their language skills, it’s not every boy who would sign up to go to school during his “summer” holidays. Here are some of their first impressions!
Lukas Braun
When I first arrived in Germany, I was surprised by how familiar everything felt. Stepping out of the airport into the cool air reminded me so much of the Dunedin ice rink that it almost felt like I hadn’t travelled as far as I actually had. In fact, I still think a cold, rainy night in Dunedin feels way colder than anything I’ve experienced here so far, which was definitely not what I expected.
My exchange family has been incredible from the very beginning. As soon as I got off the plane, they greeted me with such friendliness and warmth that any nerves I had instantly eased. They’ve been so welcoming—helping me settle in, answering all my questions, and making sure I feel comfortable in their home. It’s been really reassuring to have people who genuinely care about how I’m doing.
School has been a whole new experience. It’s fun, interesting, and definitely a bit overwhelming at times — there’s a lot to take in, from the language to the class structure to meeting so many new people. But even with the challenges, I’m enjoying it a lot. Every day feels like I’m learning something new, not just in the classroom but about the culture, the routines, and the way people interact here. Even when it feels a little chaotic, it’s exciting, and I’m looking forward to seeing how much more I’ll grow and adapt during my time here.
Overall, the start of my exchange has been a mix of familiar feelings, new experiences, and really positive first impressions. I’m grateful for how smoothly everything has gone so far and excited for everything still ahead.
Maximilian Kaiser
The journey to Germany was very long — a 10-hour flight followed by a 12-hour flight. I can't sleep on planes, so by the time I arrived in Germany and met my host family, I was barely functioning, and my German wasn't the best.
The family is extremely nice, and their house is awesome. Munich, where I'm located, is a stark contrast to Dunedin, with tonnes of people. It’s hectic and bustling, with massive buildings and impressive architecture. It's so easy to walk into people as you gaze up at the buildings in wonder!
Xavier Stewart
My student exchange experience in Germany is going well, but it has been filled with challenges! Despite the chilly weather, my host family has welcomed me with open arms, making me feel right at home. School has been a positive experience, although adjusting to the differences compared to New Zealand has had its difficulties. My exchange family has been incredibly supportive, and I am grateful for the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the culture.
Oliver Jamieson
After landing safely, I discovered I had forgotten my jacket which was not the best since it was minus 5 degrees, so I had to promptly go and spend a bit of my pocket money on buying a new one. I am enjoying Germany so much that I have barely been in contact with back home, except, of course, to ask for a top up on the spending fund!
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