Welcome to Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Being a new student is a big deal—whether it’s your first time at university, you’re embarking on postgraduate study, or you’ve just moved to Wellington. Here's some information to get you started.

Tools and help

Find out how to access self-service tools and information in our Pūaha portal for students, and get help from the Student Service Centre.
Students performing kapa haka

Welcome new students

If you're starting your studies in Trimester 1, 2026, join us for New Students' Orientation from Monday 16 to Friday 20 February 2026. Get ready to start your studies, meet new people, and have fun.

New Students' Orientation Check out the timetable
Two students sitting at a cafe table with their laptops, one leaning over to look at something on the other's laptop.

Before you start

Get ready to study—accept your Enrolment Agreement, make sure your fees are paid, and find accommodation so that you’re sorted before you arrive.
Three students sitting on stairs and laughing together

Once you start

Explore what’s on at New Students’ Orientation and get your IT, student ID card, and timetable sorted.
Two students sitting on a bench laughing, eating burgers

Intro to student life

Experience student life in Wellington—connect, get involved, and feel confident heading into your first year.

Student services and support

If you run into a problem—whatever it may be—there’s someone who can help. Find out about the wide range of support available to students.

How we can help

University dates

Find out when each trimester starts and ends, the deadlines for withdrawing from courses, and other important University dates.

Key dates

Find your community

International students

Learn how to thrive as an international student—from orientation to graduation—with advisors who offer wellbeing, insurance, and visa support.
Mature student helping a young child across a set of monkey bars in a playground

Postgraduate students

Connect with fellow students and find out about the support, spaces, and services available to the postgraduate community at the University.
Students performing kapa haka

Student communities

Get involved with cultural groups, find support from peers, and make new friends on campus. There are many opportunities throughout the year to get involved.

Parents and Whānau

Discover how you can support your child or whānau while they're studying, and help them get organised for the next stage of their lives.

Learn more