New Students’ Orientation

At the start of Trimesters 1 and 2, we welcome new students to the University through our New Students’ Orientation programme.

Trimester 1: Monday 15–Friday 19 February 2021

New Students' Orientation takes place the week before classes start—there are lots of activities, events, workshops, and tours to help you get settled in and have a smooth transition to university life and study.

Our friendly student ambassadors will be on hand to show you around, share handy tips and tricks, and answer any questions you might have.

If you’re a new international student in Trimester 1 2021, take a look at the International Orientation website to find out more information about international orientation and the events that will be held throughout the week.

Keep an eye on your emails and our social media channels to find out more.

Timetables

Check out what’s on during Orientation and be sure to get involved. Sessions are running on campus and online.

Orientation timetable

Use the Orientation timetable to figure out what events and workshops are going on throughout the week—there's something for everyone.

Māori students' Orientation timetable

A week-long programme for you and your whānau to connect with the korowai of support at the University, navigate our campuses, and meet key staff and students.

Pasifika students' Orientation timetable

Get involved in a range of activities that will prepare you for a successful academic journey and meet with staff and students.

Online Orientation timetable

If you can't make it in person, check out our online sessions to sort your student admin and prepare for study.

Take a tour

Explore the University's campuses—during Orientation take a tour of our campuses, the city, or the library so you can get your bearings before classes start.

Prepare for study

Attend workshop sessions for tips on studying, essay writing, and academic expectations.

Student communities

Some of our student communities have orientation programmes to help welcome you and connect with each other on campus.

Getting ready

New Students’ Orientation offers in person and online events and workshops. Before you start your classes, be sure to check off the following:

Get involved

There are lots of ways you can meet other students and get involved with university life:

  • The UNI 101 programme is designed to help you get connected at university, helping you to find your way around, connect with other students from your faculty and help you with the transition into university life and study.
  • WGTN Hall is ‘a hall without walls’—a programme to help you get involved and make the most out of your first year at university.
  • Attend the club expos (23–25 February 2021) to find and connect with your club of choice. Joining a club is a great way to make new friends, learn new skills, and make your experience at university a rich and rewarding one. Follow @wgtnhall on Instagram for updates.
  • See what's happening at the Recreation Centre. Take advantage of the Orientation fitness membership special, on sale for a limited time only, from Monday 15 February 2021.
  • The University's population includes people from a diverse range of communities. Find out more about the support networks available for each of them.
  • Win prizes and meet people from all around Wellington at the University’s 'Keeping Well' expo as well as the annual Welcome Festival and halls’ chant-off. Check the timetable for more details.

Victoria University of Wellington Students' Association (VUWSA)

VUWSA is your friendly students' association, run by students, for students. We're in charge of the iconic toga party and various gigs throughout New Students' Orientation week (OWeek). Tickets for these events sell out quickly, so make sure you don't miss out. Buy your tickets online and be sure to follow us on Facebook or Instagram for updates.

If you have any questions, email the Student Recruitment and Orientation team course-advice@vuw.ac.nz for assistance.

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