Enter essay contest to win New Zealand trip

Sheep, kiwi fruit and rugby. What images come to mind when you think of New Zealand? Put your fantasies into words and you could be one of 12 lucky students to win a trip to the land renowned for its stunning natural beauty.

The New Zealand Student Ambassador Selection Programme is offering students the chance to broaden their horizons and improve their spoken and written English.

A 500-word essay, entitled 'What is your dream about New Zealand?', is the first step in the selection process. Applications and essays must be submitted between September 29 and January 6, 2006. Short-listed applicants will then attend selection interviews at the end of January 2006.

The competition has two categories: Group A for students aged 18 to 30, and Group B for students aged 14 to 17.

The Group A winner will receive a five-week education and adventure package in New Zealand, which will include return air tickets, a tailor-made learning programme, accommodation, working holiday visa, personal travel counselling and access to employment agencies and accommodation services. The two runners-up will receive the same package as the winner, without the return air tickets.

The Group B winner will receive a three-week, tailor-made learning programme, a return air ticket and accommodation. The eight runners-up will receive the same package, excluding air tickets.