Student voice

As a student, your voice matters. Sharing your perspective helps shape the decisions that impact your university experience.

Student voice and partnership

At Te Herenga Waka, we are committed to working with students as partners.

We recognise that students bring valuable expertise and perspectives to discussions about learning, support services, campus life, and the wider university experience.

Our approach is guided by the principles of:

  • partnership and collaboration
  • respect and inclusion
  • honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi
  • valuing diverse student perspectives
  • transparency and accountability.

Student voice is important in shaping learning, services, governance, and the overall student experience.

Student surveys sit alongside other opportunities for students to contribute through consultation, feedback, co-design, advisory roles, representation, leadership, and governance activities.

Student surveys

Student surveys are one of the ways we listen to student perspectives and involve students in decisions that affect the University community.

We run a small number of core student surveys each year to understand your experience at key points in your journey. Your insights help shape decisions and improve student-focused initiatives.

There are three core surveys:

  • Getting Started—for new students to share feedback on their first weeks at university.
  • Kōrero Mai (formerly Have Your Say)—for all students to share feedback on their overall student experience.
  • Graduate Destinations—for graduates to provide insights on life after graduation.

Together, they provide a complete picture of the student experience over time.

Three students sitting on indoor steps, looking at a campus map together.

Getting Started survey

First-year students—share your feedback on your first weeks at university.
Students sitting around a table indoors, talking with a laptop and drinks.

Kōrero Mai survey

For all students—share your feedback on your university experience so far.
Graduates in caps and gowns gathered outdoors, one holding a bouquet.

Graduate Destinations survey

Discover the types of employment, further study, volunteer work, or job searching our graduates are involved in.

Closing the loop

We’re committed to listening to student feedback, acting on what we hear, and showing you what has changed as a result.

Monitoring student feedback and reviewing progress helps us understand what is working well, identify opportunities for improvement, and make informed decisions for current and future students.

By sharing your experiences, you contribute to a culture of collaboration that supports continuous improvement across the University.

Your voice helps shape the university experience, not just for you, but for future students as well.

Get in touch

If you have a question, concern, or suggestion about student surveys, email studentsurvey@vuw.ac.nz.