Wellbeing, health, and safety in Wellington
Wellington is a safe and friendly city, ranked among the top 20 safest cities in the world. Learn how to keep yourself healthy and well while studying with us.
Health and wellbeing
Studying and living in a new country can be challenging at first. It takes time to settle in—everyone adjusts differently—but in your first few weeks in New Zealand, you might feel:
- homesickness
- emotional or depressed
- tired or angry
- lonely
- confused.
The good news is that these feelings do eventually go away—but there are people you can ask for help in the meantime. If you are not sure where to start, contact the International Student Support team.
Support services and professional help
Our university offers health, wellbeing, and self-help resources, including:
- Manawa Ora—Student Wellbeing—Student-led programmes supporting your wellbeing during study
- Mauri Ora—Student Health and Counselling—General practice medical services
- Student Support Services.
External health and wellbeing services
- Lifeline—24-hour confidential and anonymous phone counselling. Call 0800 111 777.
- The Samaritans—24-hour anonymous listening service at 04 473 9739. They also offer face-to-face counselling at their office on the corner of Hill and Molesworth Streets, Thorndon.
- 1737—Free and confidential mental health support in New Zealand.
If you get sick or are injured
Most international students aren’t eligible for publicly funded healthcare—but Studentsafe–University insurance should cover your medical expenses. Learn more about Studentsafe–University insurance.
Safety
For non-emergencies
- Wellington Central Police Station is on the corner of Victoria and Harris Streets, next to Wellington Central Library. It is open 24/7.
- Call 105 for non-urgent police matters.
- The NZ Police website offers useful information in multiple languages.
On-campus security
- Call campus security on 0800 842 8888.
- Call from a campus landline for emergencies, dial extension 5398 or 8888.
Security tips
- Keep valuables hidden from view.
- If you've lost your phone, immediately ask your phone company to block your SIM, then contact the police and file a report.
- Use campus lockers for valuables—these are available for a small fee.
- Buy separate insurance for your car as it is not covered by your health or travel insurance.
Personal and campus safety
- Walk with friends, especially at night.
- Don’t get into a car with someone you don’t trust or who seems drunk or affected by drugs.
Money and belongings
- Open a bank account as soon as you can; avoid carrying large sums or keeping cash in your room.
- Do not leave cash visible at ATMs.
- Never share your PIN.
- Report stolen cards immediately to your bank.
- Avoid borrowing or lending large amounts of money.
- Carry your student ID on campus for access to certain areas.
Preparing for natural disasters
- Natural disasters don’t happen often, but it’s wise to be ready.
- Check local news and updates from Wellington City Council or New Zealand’s Ministry of Health to know what’s happening.
- Learn what to do in an emergency so you know how to stay safe.
More on preparing for a natural disaster.
Student community
Our diverse community welcomes you. Take time to explore support networks, join activities, and meet other students. One of the best parts of student life is connecting with people from all over the world. There are events all year where you can celebrate your culture, get support, and meet new people.
Internet scam, spam, and fraud
As an international student, be careful with fake emails or messages that ask for your personal info or money. Always check who is contacting you. Don’t click on unknown links, and keep your devices safe. If you think it’s a scam, report it to the police. Stay alert and protect yourself online.
- Be careful with emails and links—Scammers may pretend to be from trusted places like banks, schools, or government offices. Don’t click on links or download files from unknown senders. Always check the sender’s email address and look for signs that it might be fake.
- Recognise scam messages—Watch out for messages that feel urgent, ask for money or personal info, or have bad spelling.
- Protect your info—Never share passwords, bank details, or personal info unless you’re sure who you’re talking to.
- Keep your devices safe—Use strong passwords, update your software, and install antivirus protection.
- Report scams—If you think you’ve received a scam message, report it to the New Zealand Police.