About
Mint Studies, and what we do
Mint Studies and Immigration is a trusted agency, registered since 2015, that helps international students settle successfully in New Zealand. We specialise in student, residence, work visas, partnership visas, dependent children visas, and we also assist with employer accreditation and job check applications — offering our clients a guided, end-to-end immigration process.
We help families from many countries make New Zealand their home. Backed by a dedicated local team in New Zealand, we provide expert guidance on visas, residency and the full immigration journey, so the transition is as smooth as possible.
Natalia Cardona Cottrell
Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA No. 201200749) & Co-founder
Natalia Cardona Cottrell is the Director of Mint Studies and a New Zealand International Student Recruitment Agent and Licensed Immigration Adviser (IAA No. 201200749). She specialises in helping families settle in New Zealand, and works with a dedicated local team to guide clients through visas, residency and the full immigration journey.
Her story
I had a successful career as an industrial engineer in Colombia, but something kept calling me forward — the need to grow, to learn English, to build something of my own. I came to New Zealand thinking I would go back home. I never did.
The English was harder than I expected. I studied a master's degree while working part-time in my field, and when I finished I secured my dream consulting job. I rebuilt myself, completely, in a new country.
Today I own a business, I am married with children, and my life here feels full. That is why I help families do the same — because I have lived it, and I know it is possible.
Meet our team
Team roster
Mick Cottrell
Business Advisor
Mick is passionate about helping people move across the world to achieve their dreams or simply a better quality of life. He holds an MBA from the University of Auckland, emigrated from England to New Zealand 20 years ago, and has a background in the airline and tourism industries.
Marcela Mejía
Student Advisor
Marcela has a unique and diverse professional background that spans banking, law, and office administration across two countries, Colombia and New Zealand. More recently, Marcela worked as Office Manager Assistant at Avondale Restorative Justice in New Zealand, deepening her commitment to people-centred work and community values. At Mint Studies she works as a student advisor, helping families from the first point of contact to the welcome in the country.
Laura Gomez
Student Advisor
Laura emigrated to New Zealand with her family. A Colombian chef, she is passionate about helping people succeed in their plans and improve their quality of life. She is practical and effective, loves her family, and is a wonderful host.
Juanita Suarez
Executive Assistant
Bringing both professional experience and a personal understanding of the international student journey. Originally from Colombia, she arrived in New Zealand as an international student, and successfully navigated the immigration process from student visa holder to New Zealand citizen. Juanita is passionate about helping students and their families feel supported, informed, and confident as they take the next step toward their educational and career goals.
Angela Cardona
Marketing Manager
Angela is a marketing professional with a passion for helping businesses grow. She has a background in marketing and advertising, and is dedicated to helping businesses achieve their goals.
Luz Mery Giraldo
Student Advisor
Luz Mery is a lawyer with years of experience in taxation and a specialist in Public Law. She loves guiding people toward their personal goals. Originally from Colombia, she has embraced everything New Zealand has to offer — what she values most is the country’s clean environment and sense of peace.
Why families choose New Zealand
New Zealand is consistently ranked among the best countries in the world to live. It has low unemployment, is one of the safest countries in the world, has excellent education and health systems, and low levels of political corruption. New Zealand also protects international students through its Pastoral Care Code, which sets standards for how non-residents are welcomed and supported.