Traveling to New Zealand with a study abroad program?

I would recommend a school in Wellington. Auckland is very much like the States (although I don't know where you are from). Wellington has a bit more charm and more diverse things to do. It also makes for easy access to the South Island as that is where the ferry runs out of. Wellington also has excellent public transportation to get around town if you don't have a car. I was there from Nov - May and the weather was fantastic... warm sunny summer days but not too hot. I hear the winter isn't too harsh either, rarely snows enough to accumulate on the ground. Although if you like the snow, obviously head south!