Re: [VTflyer] New Zealand
Honestly, you'll find places to have fun all over New Zealand, but for outdoor activities I definitely recommend South Island. Queenstown is the adventure sports capital. You'll find plenty of like-minded folks there.
For skiing, check the list at http://www.fourcorners.co.nz/new-zealand/ski-area-comparison/
-- you'll see that most of the places listed there are South Island. Wanaka is pretty close to Queenstown, both are in Central Otago. Good skiing, moutaineering, rock climbing, etc.
The University of Otago is about three hours drive away, in Dunedin. It's an old and famous university.
What will you be studying?