Applying for a student visa to New Zealand will now look different, with the country introducing a fully digital process. Starting today, all international student visa applications will be processed through Immigration New Zealand’s upgraded online platform, ADEPT. The move is aimed at reducing paperwork, expediting decisions, and making the process simpler and more efficient for applicants worldwide.

From August 18, applications for English Language Student Visa, Exchange Student Visa, Fee Paying Student Visa, Pathway Student Visa, New Zealand Government Scholarship Student Visa, and Foreign Government Supported Student Visa are automatically being directed to the new ADEPT form. Any applications submitted through the old system on or before August 17 will continue to be processed, while draft applications must be submitted by September 17. After this date, all draft applications will be deleted.

Immigration New Zealand confirmed that from September 18, paper applications will no longer be accepted for student visa categories, marking a complete shift to online processing. This change is part of a broader seven-year programme designed to transition all visa categories to a single digital platform. Visitor Visas, Accredited Employer Work Visas, and Permanent Resident Visas have already been on the ADEPT system since 2021.

In its official statement, Immigration New Zealand said, “Customers and staff are at the heart of the Our Future Services programme. We are aiming to deliver a simpler, faster, and more user-friendly visa application process to reduce waiting times, provide clear communication on application status, and increase self-service capabilities so everyone feels more informed and better supported.”

The immigration agency has also advised applicants to apply at least three months before their intended travel date, as this remains a peak period for student visa processing. Family-related visa products linked to student visas will also be shifted to the new system over the coming year as part of the phased rollout.

This digital transformation marks an important milestone for international students aspiring to study in New Zealand, providing a streamlined and modern approach to visa processing.

India’s leading destination representation firm, Red Dot Representations, has joined hands with Unique Lanka Travels, a top travel solutions provider from Sri Lanka, to expand the island nation’s global reach and redefine the way travellers experience it.

The collaboration marks an important milestone in showcasing Sri Lanka’s beauty, culture, and diversity to a wider international audience. With Red Dot’s expertise in bespoke sales and marketing strategies, Unique Lanka Travels will gain the kind of exposure and two-way communication usually reserved for larger travel companies. This means travellers can look forward to extraordinary, customised experiences crafted with precision and care.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s appeal, Charith De Alwis, CEO of Unique Lanka Travels, shared,"Sri Lanka is a captivating paradise for high-end Indian travellers seeking luxury, adventure, and cultural richness. Offering pristine beaches, lush tea plantations, and vibrant heritage sites, Sri Lanka is perfect for indulgent stays at world-class resorts and thrilling outdoor adventures. At Unique Lanka Travels, our team is dedicated to customizing your experience and ensuring a seamless, pampered journey. We are excited to collaborate with Red.dot representation, a market expert, to grow together and bring exclusive Sri Lankan adventures to discerning travellers. Make Sri Lanka a must-visit destination on your bucket list!"

Echoing the sentiment, Prabhakar Kamat, Business Head at Red Dot Representations, said,"We are excited to represent Unique Lanka Travels, as their focus on authenticity and quality brings values that align perfectly with ours. Our onus as a team will be to engage on a platform that represents Sri Lanka as a must-see destination through one-of-a-kind sales and marketing initiatives to today’s traveler."

With this partnership, both companies are set to enhance Sri Lanka’s presence in key markets, engage closely with trade partners, and set new benchmarks in experiential travel. The collaboration ultimately aims to enrich the journeys of global travellers, making Sri Lanka a must-visit destination for those seeking both luxury and authenticity

Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu has reinforced its culinary leadership team with two pivotal appointments, announcing Souvik Dutta as Head Chef and Gaurav Malik as Director of Food & Beverage. These strategic additions underscore the hotel’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and creating exceptional dining experiences for guests.

Souvik Dutta – Head Chef

Hailing from Kolkata, India, Souvik Dutta brings over 14 years of rich culinary expertise and leadership to his new role as Head Chef. A Hotel Management graduate, Souvik began his journey with Hyatt in 2011 and steadily advanced through various positions, most recently serving as Executive Sous Chef at Hyatt Regency Kolkata.

Passionate about innovation and mentorship, Souvik has launched initiatives like a chef mentorship program, which has empowered junior team members with both culinary and leadership skills. His philosophy combines creativity, discipline, and collaboration to drive kitchen excellence.

Outside his professional life, Souvik is an avid culinary explorer who enjoys discovering food cultures through travel, reading about global cuisines, and photographing food. His long-term aspiration is to open his own restaurant, blending creativity, mentorship, and global inspirations.

Reflecting on his journey, Souvik said:

“Hyatt’s people-centric culture and dedication to talent development have inspired me from the very beginning—fueling a greater sense of purpose and responsibility.”

Gaurav Malik – Director of Food & Beverage

Joining alongside Souvik, Gaurav Malik takes charge as Director of Food & Beverage. Originally from Delhi, India, Gaurav brings more than 14 years of experience, backed by a strong foundation in Hospitality and Tourism Management.

Gaurav began his career in 2011 as a waiter and steadily rose to leadership roles, including F&B Outlet Manager and Assistant F&B Manager. Prior to this appointment, he was Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at Grand Hyatt Goa, where he played a key role in operations and guest engagement.

One of his standout achievements includes transforming an underutilized rooftop in Dubai into a premier Nikkei cuisine restaurant, which has since become a celebrated culinary destination. Beyond work, Gaurav is a cricket enthusiast and avid cyclist, with dreams of attending Oktoberfest in Munich.

Welcoming the appointments, Mr. Walter Pereira, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu, remarked:

“We are excited to welcome both Souvik and Gaurav to our leadership team. Their vast experience, innovative vision, and passion for hospitality align seamlessly with our brand ethos. Together, they will elevate our culinary offerings and create memorable guest experiences.”

With these dual appointments, Hyatt Centric Soalteemode Kathmandu is poised to enhance its reputation as a vibrant culinary destination, blending world-class leadership with innovative dining concepts.