i live in Hawaii and decided to apply for a WHV through BUNAC because i was nearly 31 when i decided to apply, and the US working holiday scheme cut off age is 30... however, through BUNAC's WHV scheme people up to age 35 can apply.
i started the initial process on 15 Jan. and submitted the program application, a work reference and a cashier's check for fees ($530 includes visa application fees). a week later i received an email saying i've been accepted to the program and was given a deadline of 22 Feb. to complete phase 2 of the application process.
for phase 2, i had to provide:
- passport with at least 3 blank pages and valid for at least 3 months after planned departure from NZ
- confirmed roundtrip airfare - BUNAC referred me to Travel Cuts and i paid $1060 for roundtrip ticket (HNL to AKL) with open end return date and 2 year validity.
- bank statement issued within the last 6 weeks with proof of funds (at least US$2000)
- completed visa application - they provided me with step by step instructions on how to fill out each line (EXTREMELY helpful and very clear)
- recent passport photo (attached to visa application)
- insurance fees - $479 for 12 month coverage
i sent everything out via express mail on 12 Feb. and received an e-mail on 22 Feb. saying my WHV has been issued. i was worried because i was detained in scotland this past january, and i have a limited entry stamp in my passport. but everything was fine and i'm good to go.
BUNAC Fed-Exed me back my passport along with a Lonely Planet Guide to NZ book, airport transfer and 2 nights stay at ACB - Auckland Central Backpackers... a hostel in auckland. i'm used to a little different accommodations, so i booked a room at the Westin Auckland Lighter Quay instead.
IEP (International Exchange Programs) is who i am dealing with once i arrive and for the duration of my stay in NZ. they have orientations that don't require advance reservations every Mon, Wed, and Fri at 10am. this is when they help set up a bank account and IRD number. i looked into setting up a bank account from Hawaii but honestly, i was a bit confused by the tax questions and frankly can't be bothered right now. i will take advantage of their services and just do it in NZ with their help.
i am a stickler when it comes to things and always want to triple check everything. BUNAC is just a phone call or e-mail away and have always been helpful, professional and courteous. i phoned them with every little question i had (besides, that's what i paid them for right?) and they answered every enquiry to my complete satisfaction.
i write of my experience so far because there are very little posts about BUNAC and even fewer posts about anyone's recent experience with them, especially to NZ. i am a single male born and raised in Hawaii, never lived anywhere else, and doing this alone. having BUNAC's assistance was well worth the all inclusive $530 fee. I leave for AKL next month, and will continue to catalogue my experiences once i'm there for more reference.
hope this thread will be helpful