Mika Manaka

It’s home away from home for Japanese student Mika Manaka. Studying Tourism and Travel, Mika says Tauranga mirrors her seaside home on the outskirts of Tokyo.

This is Mika’s second time to New Zealand, visiting the first time with a group of 11 college students from throughout Japan.

“The trip changed me a lot. After college I saved up so I could study in New Zealand.”

The friendly tutors have enhanced Mika’s experience making her feel so welcome. Now she does not hesitate to mix and mingle with Kiwi students, resulting in an improvement of her English.

But it doesn’t stop there! Mika has helped with local organisations, translating for visiting Japanese guests to Tauranga. Mika has finished the National Certificate in Tourism and Travel (Core Skills) Level 3 and is moving on to the Diploma in Tourism.