Hosted at Zhengzhou University (ZZU), the two universities work together to deliver undergraduate degrees majoring in architecture, landscape architecture, and industrial design.
Professor Andre Brown, associate dean, international, Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation, says building a strong foundation at the Wellington Institute of Zhengzhou University (WIZZU) has been vital in cementing a successful relationship with partners in this major project for Te Herenga Waka.
“Being able to call on three staff who are all alumni of our University to deliver the first courses, one for each of the three degrees, has been extremely valuable in establishing that foundation.
“We are delighted that this has also extended into collaborative research funding applications,” he says.
Landscape Architecture lecturer Yiwen Cui started at the Institute in September 2025 and says the experience has been incredibly rewarding.
“I was fortunate to be one of the first three staff members from the University to teach at Zhengzhou, so I’ve been able to help other colleagues settle in, share my experiences, and hopefully make the transition a bit easier for them.
“As I grew up in China and now teach at Te Herenga Waka, I feel like I’m connecting two parts of my own journey. All of my teaching is delivered in English, so the students are learning not only the subject itself but also how to work and communicate in an international academic environment.”
Yiwen says being back in China allows him to experience both Chinese and New Zealand cultures from a completely different perspective.
“It’s been fascinating to see how students respond to different teaching styles and how we can combine the strengths of both education systems.”
Academically, the work for students is very similar to what is taught in Wellington, with the same curriculum, the same teaching philosophy, and the same assessment standards.
“I think the biggest benefit is that students develop a much more international perspective,” says Yiwen.
“They’re not only learning professional knowledge but also experiencing how the same discipline is taught in another country.”
Outside the classroom, it’s also a very different experience for teaching staff. Living and teaching in another country means learning a different culture, different ways of communicating, and different daily routines.
Senior lecturer in architecture Dr José Núñez Collado says the experience has challenged him to adapt his teaching methods and approaches.
“It has been rewarding to see many students grow academically and develop an appreciation for an educational approach that differs from the one they have experienced in China.
“They gain valuable skills not only in architecture, but also in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving, which I believe will benefit them throughout their careers and lives. It is truly a unique educational experience.”
While all four years of teaching normally take place in China, nineteen students have been given the opportunity to visit Te Herenga Waka for two weeks. They will be here from 12 July to 23 July.
In addition, seven students will continue on at Te Herenga Waka for the whole year.
During their time here, they get to experience what it’s like to be a student in Wellington, and what New Zealand’s capital city has to offer.
Andre says the Institute’s vision extends far beyond delivering dual-degree programmes.
“The two week visit and year abroad are important additional components in building the links and partnership activities between the two Universities. With these developments the partnership is proving to be both productive and mutually beneficial.”