Are you a new international student at the University of Auckland?

AUSA understands that the first month in NEW Zealand (pun intended) may be overwhelming for you. There is a lot of paperwork you have to complete, homesickness engulfs you at times, and some uniquely Kiwi customs may seem perplexing to you.

Having experienced this journey, an AUSA Buddy can help ease you into UoA and Kiwi life.

The role of an AUSA Buddy

You are matched with an existing student based on your shared interests or major. Your Buddy is committed to offering personal support by:

  1. Meeting you face to face to explain key administrative process, such as, obtaining an IRD number, converting your driving license and applying for job. NOTE: Only when it is safe/practical to do under the current Alert Level setting.
  2. Showing you around Auckland CBD to familiarize yourself with the nearest supermarkets, stationery stores and best places to eat
  3. Having an ongoing mentoring relationship with you through your first semester.

When can I meet my Buddy?

You can start chatting with your Buddy online, even before you arrive in Auckland! Your Buddy will meet up with you during Fresher’s and/or Orientation week. Even if you missed Orientation, your Buddy can still meet you when you arrive here.

What else do I gain?

  • We run few events during the semester for students participating in the program to meet other students.
  • We will consolidate all useful information for new international students into an easily digestible information booklet which you will get to keep for your reference.
  • Many AUSA Buddies are active university students; some even hold key leadership positions in their clubs. You will be plugged into the strong social networks that the Buddies bring with them.
  • You will get insider knowledge about the Auckland University Students’ Association (AUSA), the people who represent you at the University of Auckland. This includes possible involvement as an AUSA Volunteer and strong ties with the International Students’ Officer Auckland University Students’ Association

I’m keen; what happens next?

  1. Fill out this form. Registrations to be matched with a Buddy for Sem 1, 2023 are now closed, but check back soon as we will re-open early June for the Semester 2 intake.
  2. We will start the matching process soon, and be in touch with more information!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are AUSA Buddies paid?

No, this is an initiative that runs on the goodwill of existing national and international students.

How are AUSA Buddies different from UniGuides and the First Year Experience program (FYE)?

UniGuides support new students in navigating the university environment during Fresher’s Week; FYE mentors connect new students to academic support within the Faculty. AUSA Buddies have specific knowledge about the international experience. We look into the emotional well-being of international students, with the aim of facilitating social integration and cultural adaptation.

What if I do not like my AUSA Buddy?

Our AUSA Buddies are passionate, well-trained and we are proud of them! In the unlikely event that you cannot get along with your AUSA Buddy you can email Amy, the International Buddies Manager at buddies@ausa.org.nz.

I still need more information before I sign up

You can email Amy, the International Buddies Manager, at buddies@ausa.org.nz. You can also check out the AUSA Buddy facebook page here.