Make new friends
Do you want to meet people to share experiences and have fun with?
There are some easy things you can do today to start building relationships.
To get you started with this goal, we asked students what they did to make new friends while they were in New Zealand. Here are their suggestions, along with a few of our own!
Students often travel from other parts of New Zealand or from overseas to study at the same place you are, and feeling lonely is normal. If you remind yourself they might need a good friend as much as you do, making conversation is a little easier!
Who have you met since you arrived in New Zealand? Sometimes new friends are right in front of us. Is there someone you'd like to get to know better? Try to grow that relationship. For example, if you know someone through your studies, ask them what they think of the course.
What do you like to do in your free time? Is there something you've always wanted to try? For example, hiking (tramping), Spanish guitar or debating – the list is endless. Wherever you're studying in New Zealand, there are many clubs, sports teams or activities you can join. Go to the clubs day or email the club organiser. They always welcome new members! Also, if you're a bit shy, having an activity to do can help distract you from feeling nervous and give you something in common to talk about.
Some students find it helpful to connect with people from the same country, as their experiences are often closest to their own. Discussing problems and experiences may also be easier in a shared native language. You can search for groups on Facebook which introduce you to people from the same country. You might also find groups where you're studying or through your embassy or consulate.
What food reminds you of home? Think about the herbs, spices and flavours your country is famous for. Organise a potluck dinner (a meal where everyone brings some food to share) and invite students to come along. Potlucks are popular in New Zealand, and are a relaxed way to share your culture and make new friends. If you're living in a university hall, homestay or flatting, this can also be a good opportunity to get to know the people you're living with better.
Do you feel like you've achieved this goal?
Send us a photo of yourself and a friend you've made in New Zealand and tell us how you met! Tag us on Instagram using #studyinnz. Sharing your experience can help other students by giving them ideas on how to make new friends.
Try a new goal(external link that opens in a new tab), there's always something new to discover.
Related pages
Personal wellbeing
Personal wellbeing and mental health are very important to a healthy life. Find out how to stay happy, healthy and safe as an international student in New Zealand.
Stay well, stay connected
Living away from home and family is an exciting time for many international students, but it can be a challenge too.
Giving your time to support others can be as beneficial for you as it is for the community. It is a great way to get to know new people and learn skills that can help you build your career in the future. Visit our 'Stay well, stay connected' page
Mental health
Living and studying in a new country can be hard, even if you’re excited about your new adventure! It’s normal to feel homesick or lonely. Some students may feel depressed. However, there are things you can do to improve your wellbeing.
Get useful information and important updates to make your life easier while you're living and studying in New Zealand.