Language Immersion Courses in New Zealand

English is the largest spoken language in New Zealand, and it is spoken by 98 percent of the population. New Zealand English is similar to Australian English, and several speakers from the Northern Hemisphere might experience difficulties in identifying the unique words and slangs. After the Second World War, The Māori people were discouraged from using their own language (te reo Māori) in institutes and workplaces, and it remained as a communal language only in a few isolated areas. It has recently undergone a process of revival, being acknowledged as one of New Zealand's official languages in 1987, and now spoken by 4.1 percent of the population. There are currently a handful of Māori language immersion schools and two Māori Television channels, the only national television channels to have their prime-time content delivered in Māori. Numerous places have formally been given dual Maori and English designations in recent years. Samoan is also one of the most extensively spoken tongues in New Zealand (2.3 percent), trailed by French, Hindi, Yue and Northern Chinese. New Zealand Sign Language is used by around 28,000 people and was made New Zealand's second authorized language in 2006.

Before the 1800s, Maori was the only language spoken in the course of the North Island and South Island of New Zealand. However, another distinct, yet strictly associated language, Moriori, which was prevalent in the Chatham Islands to the east of New Zealand [however the Chatham Islands are now governmentally part of New Zealand]. Moriori is now non-existent and has not had any native speakers since the 1930s (though the language has been logged judiciously in written form).
 
For non native English speakers too, English immersion in New Zealand is a brilliant way to continue studies, while also polishing one’s English skills. Language immersion is an excellent way to learn any language. Immersion courses are usually classes wherein the student opts for a particular course and the instructions of that course is given in the language the student wants to learn. It involves integration into one’s surroundings and not feeling alienated in a new country. Learning English or Maori in New Zealand through immersion courses is a great idea for those planning on staying long term in the country.
 
Basic conversational construction in New Zealand English is slightly different from English spoken elsewhere, but not too difficult to learn. Learning Maori in New Zealand is not too hard either, though, as with all languages, there are features of construction of the language which necessitate some exertion before one gets comfortable. However, Maori does not have the linguistic difficulty that we find in some of the tongues further afield in the Pacific, to which it is connected.
Joining classes is the best way to learn English or Maori in New Zealand, and they will give the support you require for learning the language. Most people are very well versed in English, and hope to learn Maori. Joining classes is a good idea, as the people around you will be at the same proficiency level as you are. There are language courses ranging from day to day conversations in English or Maori to Diploma courses from universities in the language. Another option can be reading newspapers and sign boards and notices in the language and write down the words that you find difficult.