International Buddy Programme

Become a buddy, meet fantastic people, share your knowledge of Kiwi life, and help welcome new international students to New Zealand and the University.

The International Buddy Programme is a fun, free programme that connects you with other students who are interested in fostering international friendships and cultivating stronger cross-cultural awareness.

Are you a new student looking for an experienced buddy to help you during your first trimester on campus? Learn more about getting paired with a more experienced student in our international buddy programme.

How to become a buddy

We’ll pair you with a new international student. You’ll be responsible for connecting with your buddy as soon as you receive their contact details.

You’ll need to:

  • have genuine interest in connecting with others from a variety of backgrounds and cultures
  • attend a training session before your buddy arrives, where you will meet other current students
  • be a friendly, welcoming face for your buddy
  • commit around 12 hours over a trimester to spending with your buddy and attending programme events
  • keep in touch with your buddy steadily throughout the trimester.

To register to be a buddy, you must:

  • be studying towards a degree
  • have already completed at least one full trimester at university (ideally a full year).

We encourage both domestic and international students to register for being a current buddy to a new international student.

Register now

Leadership programmes

If you participate in the International Buddy Programme, you are eligible to claim leadership points for the Wellington International Leadership Programme and the Wellington Plus Programme.

If you have completed the International Buddy Programme and wish to claim leadership points, download and fill out the IBP recognition form (PDF).

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International Student Experience