New Students’ Orientation

At the start of Trimesters 1 and 2, we welcome new students to the University with a series of online and in-person events.

Orientation timetables

Undergraduate students

Get involved in our sessions and events for new undergraduate students. Prepare for study, find your way around, meet new people, and have fun.

Postgraduate students

Four days of workshops and events to help you prepare for postgraduate-level study, find your way around campus, and meet some other postgraduate students.

Māori students

An opportunity for you and your whānau to connect with the korowai of support at the University, and meet key staff and students.

Pasifika students

Get involved in a day of activities for new Pasifika students, prepare for a successful academic journey, and meet with staff and students.

International students

International Orientation provides you with opportunities to meet other students, find out about services and support, and get advice about life in Wellington.

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:

  • Understand and confirm your lecture timetable.
  • Locate your lecture theatre(s).
  • Buy your course books and texts at Vic Books, at Kelburn or Pipitea campus—a full list of course textbooks will be posted in the store and on the Vic Books website.

You might also want to:

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. Follow @wgtnhall on Instagram for updates.
  • Attend the club expos at the start of the university year 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. Find out more about clubs and societies.
  • See what's happening at the Recreation Centre. Take advantage of Orientation fitness membership specials (on sale for a limited time only).
  • 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.
  • If you have any questions, email the Student Recruitment and Orientation team course-advice@vuw.ac.nz for assistance.