Life on campus
Arriving in a new country is exciting and challenging. There are lots of things you can do to help you find your way around, meet new people, and settle into your new life.
Taking part in your education provider’s orientation week, joining clubs and associations, and volunteering, are just a few of the great things you can do to make your time in New Zealand fulfilling and fun.
By getting involved with different activities, you’ll make friends, learn new skills, build personal and professional networks, and gain valuable experience that will prepare you for your future.
Don’t worry if you are feeling a little shy. Remember, everyone is new and feeling the same way. The important thing is to give new things a try.
Orientation
Taking part in orientation, or 'O week', is an opportunity to learn about student life on your campus. It is a great way to make new friends, have fun, and prepare you for a successful and enjoyable study journey. It usually happens the week before the start of the first semester.
Orientation also offers the chance to get to know your way around your campus, learn about your course, clubs, the support services that are there to help you, and much more.
Orientation activities are attended by both New Zealand and international students, and so this is an opportunity to meet both Kiwi students and those from other countries. But look out for special events at your campus specifically to help international students settle into New Zealand.
Campus and city tours
Take a city tour or get to know your campus.
Social events, clubs and societies
There are many fun social events on offer, which can include dinners, bowling nights, music, scavenger hunts and much more. Orientation also includes a Clubs Expo so you can find out about the many different clubs available to join.
Support services
Learn about services available to international students, including IT support, how to book a medical appointment or what counselling services are available.
Academic expectations
Learn about studying in New Zealand, including lectures, tutorials, assignments, exams and how to manage your study.
Course advice and information
Find help or information about your course.
Buddy/mentor programmes
Connect with other students who will provide advice and support as you settle into New Zealand.
Tip: Once you have enrolled at your education provider, you will receive information about orientation events and activities. Alternatively, check your provider’s website for more information.
“I strongly suggest that new international students make the best out of orientation week – mingle around and get to know the other new students.”
Thanh Ha — Viet Nam
Clubs, societies and associations
Joining a club or society is one of the best ways to meet new people, discover new interests, keep fit, or learn skills that will enhance your CV. From Amnesty International to zoology, there are many different groups to join, from cultural and religious groups to sports clubs and university associations. Here’s a quick overview:
Learn about Māori culture, learn a new language or share your culture with others.
Would you like to sing in a choir, build robotics or get involved in student politics? Find out about all the social and special interest groups available.
Connect with other students studying the same course as you to share ideas and work together.
Want to connect with others who share your faith? There are lots of different religious groups you can join for worship or religious support. Check out Where to practise your religion to find out more about religion in New Zealand.
Would you like to be in a sports team, play tennis, learn to scuba dive or join a gym? Keep fit and active by getting involved.
Tip: Check out what’s available at the Clubs Expo during orientation. There’s a club for everyone - or possibly more!
Volunteering
Volunteering is when you give your time and talent to a cause without being paid. It’s a great way to learn new skills, boost your employability(external link that opens in a new tab), practise your English, connect with your community and meet new people.
There are lots of places you can volunteer at, from animal shelters to student volunteer groups. There are also many volunteering opportunities you can access through education providers and student associations. Here are some ideas for you to check out:
- Discover what it is like to volunteer with the Student Volunteer Army(external link that opens in a new tab).
- Find out more about becoming an International Ambassador(external link that opens in a new tab).
- Look for a role through Volunteering NZ(external link that opens in a new tab).
"Being an ambassador for Christchurch Educated has given me the perfect opportunity to connect with and to help international students in Christchurch."
Neville Rodrigues — PhD student from India
Related stories
Why Every International Student Should Join a Club
Marvin explains why you should join one or more clubs during your study abroad in New Zealand.
Being a Muslim student in New Zealand
International student Arina Aizal shares what it feels like to be a Muslim student at Otago University.
My Story of Being an International Student Ambassador
Discover Neville's journey from India to New Zealand and his experience as a student ambassador for Christchurch Educated.
Making Friends in New Zealand
Join Thanh Ha on her inspiring journey from Vietnam to New Zealand as an international student. Overcoming challenges, she embraced new experiences, made diverse friends, and found her voice in the open learning environment.
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Life and culture
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