When you first arrive

When you arrive in Wellington as a Manaaki New Zealand Scholar, you must attend your arrival briefing, Pre-start Programme, and International Orientation.

Make sure you organise your travel to arrive in Wellington in time for your arrival briefing and Pre-start Programme.

Check your Orientation and start dates.

All new Scholarship students must attend their arrival briefing and Pre-start Programme—this is a condition of your Scholarship. If you are going to miss these due to circumstances beyond your control, contact the International team as soon as possible so we can discuss your options.

Arrival briefing

Soon after you arrive in Wellington, you will meet the International Development Scholarships team for an arrival briefing.

At your arrival briefing, you will:

  • get practical information to help you settle in before your Pre-start Programme
  • receive your health card, which gives you access to free public healthcare
  • receive details about your allowances and activating your New Zealand bank account
  • find out more about your Pre-start Programme and International Orientation
  • meet fellow Scholarship students (who we call ‘Scholars’).

During your first couple of days, you will also meet your International Student Officer (ISO). They will be your key support person for the duration of your Scholarship and are always available to help.

Pre-start Programme

Before you begin your degree, you will complete the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships Pre-start Programme. This is a two-week training course that will help you adjust to New Zealand and prepare for academic life at the University.

The programme is normally held three weeks before the start of Trimester 1 or Trimester 2. We will email you the exact dates and you can also check your start dates on our website.

During the Pre-start Programme, you will:

  • learn about your Scholarship’s conditions, requirements, and entitlements
  • get tips on how to adjust to your new life in Wellington
  • find out about New Zealand history and culture
  • see what student life at the University is like
  • get advice on how to prepare for your study
  • learn about student support while you are studying.

You will get to know other Scholarship students and attend social events. It’s a great introduction to new friends and your new life in Wellington.

The Pre-start Programme will be followed by International Orientation and enrolment. You will then be well-prepared to start your study.