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International Student Handbook
KIA ORA
WELCOME
Nau mai, haere mai and a very warm welcome
to the Western Institute of Technology at
Taranaki (WITT).
Congratulations on choosing a quality
government owned tertiary institute in which
to study and a wonderful city in which to live.
Moving away from your home country is very
exciting but it can also be challenging. This
international student handbook contains a
comprehensive range of information designed
to help you meet the challenge of adapting to
a different way of life in a new country, and to
ensure you have a safe, happy and successful
study journey with us.
Please read the information contained within
this document and keep it as a resource for
your future reference.
We look forward to you having a rewarding
and enjoyable time living and studying
with us at WITT.
Your success is our priority.
Kia ora tatou katoa
John Snook / Chief Executive
2 | International Student Handbook
Contents
4—5 Campus
Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officers
WITT Success Team Staff and Services
Te Whare Matauranga (Learning Resource Centre)
6 — 25 New Zealand
About New Plymouth
Arriving in New Zealand
Living in New Zealand
About New Zealand
About New Zealanders
New Zealand Laws
Keeping Safe in New Zealand
Keeping Well in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand
Working in New Zealand
26 — 33 Other
Under 18 year old students
Complaint Overview
International Students Conditions of Enrolment
Useful Kiwi and Māori Phrases
34 — 35 Contacts
Important New Plymouth Contacts
Important National Contacts
Health, Education and Immigration Contacts
Emergency In an emergency dial 111 (free call)
contacts An operator will ask what service you need: Police,
Fire or Ambulance?
Tell the operator where you are / what’s happened.
Someone will be available to support you
You should also ring the
WITT 24hr number
+64 27 466 0412 New Plymouth students
All information contained within this booklet is confirmed to be
correct at time of printing. Last updated December 2021.
International Student Handbook | 3
Student Liaison and
Pastoral Care Officers
The Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officers, along with enrolment staff, will assist you with course
applications, enrolments and fee payments, visas, medical insurance and course information as well as
be your point of contact for your ongoing support while you study at WITT.
For general inquiries call us on +64 6 757 3100 or email international@witt.ac.nz
Robyn Harvey Glenys Bridgeman Rita Zhang
Student Liaison and Pastoral Student Liaison and Pastoral Student Liaison and Pastoral
Support Officer - Lead Support Officer Support Officer
Camille Liao Kingsley Wang Paramdip Singh
Student Liaison and Pastoral Regional Director (China/Korea Senior Advisor International
Support Officer k.wang@witt.ac.nz
4 | International Student Handbook
WITT Success Team
staff and services
Te Puna Manaaki (Wellbeing Hub) Te Whare Mātauranga
Te Puna Manaaki - Wellbeing Hub has trained (Learning Resource Centre)
staff to look after your health and to provide The Learning Resource Centre consists of
pastoral care and support. library and learning support staff. They assist
Te Puna Manaaki is located at 20 Bell Street, with resources to support your learning
B Block Ground Floor. and teach a wide range of study skills on an
Phone: +64 6 757 3100 individual and small group basis.
Te Whare Mātauranga is located at 20 Bell
Staffing Street, L Block.
Phone: +64 6 757 3100
Director Student Support Services
Counsellor
Chaplain
Staffing
Health Clinic Nurse Library staff
Learning Advisors
International Student Handbook | 5
About New Plymouth
New Plymouth Information Centre Telephone cards
Puke Ariki You can buy these at any service station,
65 St Aubyn Street — Ph 06 759 6060 supermarket or dairy.
New Plymouth Puke Ariki Library Citizen’s Advice Bureau
If you live in New Plymouth you can use the The Citizens Advice Bureau gives free advice
library for free. All you need is: to anyone living in NZ on a wide range of
• One form of photo ID subjects including personal, housing, financial
& legal issues. They can be contacted at:
• Proof of residence in New Plymouth
(e.g. a tenancy agreement with your Community House
address details) 32 Leach St, New Plymouth
Freephone 0800 367 222
Central library is in Puke Ariki, Brougham
Ph 06 758 9542
Street — Ph 06 759 6060
www.cab.org.nz
Taxi services
Migrant Connections Taranaki
Energy City Cabs — Ph 06 757 5580
Migrant Connections Taranaki is a service
NP Taxis — Ph 06 757 3000 aimed at assisting migrants to integrate into
Blue Bubble — Ph 06 757 3000 the local community.
mctnz@xtra.co.nz
Medical services Ph 06 759 1492
Medicross Urgent Care & GP Clinic
8 Egmont Street Websites of interest
New Plymouth www.visitnewplymouth.nz
Ph 06 759 8915 www.visit.taranaki.info
Phoenix Urgent Doctors www.taranaki.info
95 Vivian Street
New Plymouth
Ph 06 759 4295
6 | International Student Handbook
Arriving in New Zealand
Before you leave home it is important to ensure you have all
relevant information and paperwork to enter New Zealand.
Booking flights Arriving at Auckland
• Go to Air NZ’s website — International Airport
www.airnewzealand.co.nz You will need to have the following
• You must have a credit card to be able to documents ready:
book on-line. • Passport and visa documentation
• Students should book flights direct to New • Completed passenger arrival card
Plymouth. When booking domestic flights,
please allow at least three hours from when Proceed to baggage claim to collect your
your flight arrives in Auckland and the bags. After collecting your baggage, proceed
departure time for New Plymouth. If the to the exit where your passenger arrival card
international flight is delayed or there is will be checked by an officer prior to passing
a hold up at customs, the domestic flight through Customs and the New Zealand
ticket may not be transferable and it is quarantine inspection service.
expensive if another flight is required When you have cleared customs at Auckland
International Airport,you can choose to either
walk across to the Domestic terminal or catch
the free bus. The walk will take about 10
minutes, is well signposted and the pathway
is very flat – follow the green line and enjoy
a walk in the fresh air after your flight. At
the domestic terminal you can check in for
your flight to New Plymouth.
International Student Handbook | 7
How will I get to New Plymouth? Airport pick-up
New Plymouth is about 350km south A pick up service is available to students
of Auckland. when they arrive at New Plymouth
Choose to fly or bus to New Plymouth. The airport or bus station. A minimum of
flight is 50 minutes and the bus trip is about 7 24 hours notice (longer at weekends)
½ hours. Please ensure that you arrange your is required to arrange the pick-up.
internal travel prior to your departure. WITT WITT’s emergency cell phone number is +64
staff are available to meet you from either the 27 466 0412. Please call this number if you
New Plymouth airport or bus station, but this miss your flight or if you have an emergency
service must be booked prior to your arrival. en route to New Plymouth.
Booking bus transport PLEASE ADVISE YOUR TRAVEL AND
• Book your bus on line at www.intercity.co.nz ACCOMMODATION DETAILS AS SOON AS
• You must have a credit card to be able to THESE ARE CONFIRMED – EVEN IF YOU
book on-line ARE BEING MET BY FRIENDS.
• Please allow at least three hours between
the scheduled arrival time at Auckland
Airport and your bus check-in time as we
cannot be responsible for missed travel
through delays. Only suitcases/bags are
permitted. No other forms of luggage can
be carried (e.g. bicycles, boxes, car seats,
surfboards etc.)
• There is a bus stop at the Auckland
International Airport Terminal
Accommodation
• It is important that you arrange where
you are going to live before you arrive
in New Zealand
• If you are under 18 years of age, you
are required to live in WITT approved
accommodation. This must be arranged
before you arrive in New Zealand
• Students 18 years and older can live
in any accommodation. Check out our
website or contact international@witt.ac.nz
for assistance
8 | International Student Handbook
Living in New Zealand
On campus accommodation - WITT-arranged accommodation
Te Henui Lodge WITT can help you to arrange private
The lodge provides hostel-style living located accommodation. You will be living in a family
on the Bell Street Campus. Residents must be home, but you will provide your own food and
18 years of age or older to live at the lodge. be self-catering.
It offers spacious, secure, modern facilities Please contact international@witt.ac.nbz for
with a live-in manager. You can have your own details on options available.
room and bathroom or you can share a room.
Cleaning services are provided but you have Flat and house rentals
to care for your own room. There is a shared
‘Flatting’ is when you rent a house or
dining room, living room, TV room, kitchen
apartment. You can flat on your own or with
and laundry. You are required to provide your
others. Flats are usually unfurnished. You may
own bed linen (sheets, pillow, blanket/duvet,
have your own room or share with others.
towels), supply your own food and cook your
Rent is usually paid per room with all other
own meals.
expenses (food, power, telephone, internet)
divided, and cooking and cleaning shared.
WITT CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT ROOMS Prices vary from $150 - $220 per room
AT THE LODGE WILL BE AVAILABLE AND per week. Flats are NOT WITT assessed
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT accommodation.
STUDENTS APPLY FOR ACCOMMODATION Flatting websites — www.trademe.co.nz/
AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE THEY property/residential-property-to-rent/
DO NOT MISS OUT.
Tenancy services is a government agency
that can help you with information about the
Lodge accommodation is NOT assessed and rights and responsibilities of both tenants
monitored by WITT. and landlords. Find this information at
For more information or an application form www.tenancy.govt.nz
go to: www.tehenuilodge.co.nz or email For advice and support with accommodation
stay@tehenuilodge.co.nz see the Student Liaison and Pastoral
Care Officer
Website: witt.ac.nz/current-students/life-in-
taranaki/accommodation/
International Student Handbook | 9
About New Zealand
Bring warm clothing and a rainproof jacket – even if you are arriving
in the summer.
Taranaki weather Facts about New Zealand
Taranaki’s mild climate allows residents and • New Zealand is a Pacific country with a
visitors ample opportunity to enjoy the many Pacific culture
outdoor activities on offer. Taranaki has more • New Zealand has a population of around
sunshine hours than most of the country while 5 million people
the rainfall is enough to keep the grass green • New Zealanders are often called “kiwis”.
& the fauna flourishing. A “kiwi” is also one of our native birds
• New Zealand has three official languages
Spring Sept — Nov average 16.4°C
- English, Māori and New Zealand sign
Summer Dec — Feb average 21.2°C language. English is the language used
for tuition
Autumn March — May average 18.5°C
• The Māori people are the indigenous
Winter June — Aug average 13.7°C people of New Zealand
For more information about New Plymouth New Zealand is known as
and Taranaki go to: www.visit.taranaki.info or
www.tripadvisor.co.nz/newplymouth clean and green
In New Zealand:
• We care for the environment
• Smoking is banned in public places
• We recycle rubbish
• Please do not spit. Spitting is seen as
unhygienic
• Do not drop rubbish. You can be
fined for littering in public places
in New Zealand
10 | International Student HandbookAbout New Zealanders
New Zealand society is a mix of Māori, Pacific Islander, Asian,
European and people from many other countries
• Many New Zealand people like to relax and • It is common for New Zealanders to keep a
enjoy outdoor activities and sports — New pet — dog, cat, bird, fish, etc
Zealand’s national sport is rugby • Women and men are treated equally in
• Personal privacy is important so private New Zealand and given the same amount
papers are not looked at by visitors and of respect. Women should not be treated
subjects such as salary, mortgages and age as sexual objects; or have explicit sexual
are not usually discussed suggestions made towards them.
• New Zealanders are friendly people. They
will smile and say hello even if they don’t
know you
• New Zealanders generally do not tip and
do not bargain when they are shopping
• Do not carry large amounts of cash.
Electronic methods of payment
are preferred
International Student Handbook | 11Making friends with New Zealanders Social occasions and invitations
New Zealanders show they like you by: • If you receive an invitation, it is polite to
• Asking you to join in with what they answer as soon as possible
are doing • If you cannot go, it is better to say no than
• Joking with you to say nothing and not turn up
• Asking you questions about yourself and • If someone invites you out, it is polite to
your country offer to pay for yourself
New Zealanders show respect for you by: • If someone says it’s their “shout”, this
means they want to pay for you
• Giving you the freedom to make your
• If you are invited to a ‘pot luck’ meal or you
own decisions
are asked to bring a plate, this means you
• Treating you as an individual with your own
are being asked to bring a plate of food
ideas and opinions
to share
• Helping you when you ask. If you don’t ask
• If you are invited to someone’s home for
they may think you don’t need help
dinner, it is usual to take your own drink
New Zealanders appear to be informal by: such as wine, beer or juice
• Calling people by their first names • It is polite to arrive on time
• Wearing casual clothes For more information on New Zealanders go
• Joking with you to: www.tourism.net.nz
12 | International Student HandbookNew Zealand laws
If an international student breaks the law, he will be treated in the
same way as a New Zealand citizen. It is important therefore, to
know about New Zealand laws and the New Zealand legal system.
General information about driving in
For information on New Zealand laws and
how the legal system of New Zealand
New Zealand
works go to: www.govt.nz — click on “law • Vehicles in New Zealand drive on the left-
and justice” hand side of the road
• You must have your drivers licence with you
whenever you drive
New Zealand police • If your drivers licence is not in English, you
must provide an English translation
The police are responsible for enforcing
• After one year, you must have sat the New
the law in New Zealand and do not accept
Zealand Driving Test and obtained a New
bribes. The New Plymouth Police Station is on
Zealand drivers licence
Powderham Street.
• Speed limits are in kilometres per hour
For information on the New Zealand Police
(kph), not miles per hour (mph)
go to: www.police.govt.nz/advice/personal-
community/keeping-safe/visitors-safety-guide • New Zealand has strict drink-driving laws.
Do not ever drink and drive!
The police have access to a free telephone
interpreting service called Language Line. • You must always wear a seat belt when
Language Line operates Monday to Friday 10 driving or travelling as a passenger in a
am to 6 pm and is available in 35 languages. motor vehicle, including people in the
back seat
For more information on Language Line go to:
www.languageline.govt.nz • The police will impound a car that is
involved in racing
• It is important to hold car insurance if you
Driving in New Zealand own a vehicle
If you own and drive a car in New Zealand, Parking areas are signposted. If you park
you MUST have a current International or New illegally, your car may be towed away. Most
Zealand drivers licence and you MUST follow parking areas need money and a machine is
the road rules of New Zealand. A copy of the provided for you to pay. Parking on yellow
official New Zealand Road Code is available lines, in “no parking” areas, or in disabled
from www.nzta.govt.nz carparks will incur a fine.
For more information about driving in New
Zealand go to:
www.aa.co.nz
www.aainsurance.co.nz
www.drivesafe.org.nz
www.nzta.govt.nz/safety/driving-safely/
visiting-drivers
* Download a copy of driving in New
Zealand, an overview for immigrants and
visitors to New Zealand www.nzta.govt.nz/
International Student Handbook | 1314 | International Student Handbook
Medicine and drug laws Personal safety laws
In New Zealand, it is illegal to smoke In New Zealand, you are breaking the law
marijuana and to have, use and distribute if you hit, punch, kick or in any way assault
non-prescribed drugs. The law makes no another person. Violence is unacceptable
distinction between international students and including violence amongst family members.
New Zealand citizens. If you are subject to any violence, contact the
New Zealand Police.
Alcohol laws
The minimum legal drinking age in New Privacy laws
Zealand is 18 years. It is illegal to: In New Zealand, a person’s privacy is protected
• Purchase alcohol if you are under 18 years by the Privacy Act 1993. WITT / NZIHT must
of age follow the Privacy Act. This means:
• Enter licensed premises if you are under 18 • You have the right to view information that
years of age WITT holds about you
• Purchase alcohol to give to another person • You have the right to ask that incorrect
who is under 18 years of age information be changed
If you wish to purchase alcohol or enter • Information cannot be shared with your
licensed premises, you will be asked to provide parents or agent without your permission
photographic proof of your age. An acceptable For more information about the Privacy Act
form of identification is: 1993 go to: www.legislation.govt.nz
• Passport
• New Zealand drivers licence Human rights laws
• 18+ card In New Zealand, your rights are protected
by the Human Rights Act. This states that all
Tobacco products and smoking laws people are to be treated equally and given the
New Zealand has strict laws about where same amount of respect regardless of sex, age,
people can smoke tobacco. Smoking is not ethnicity, disability or religion.
permitted in indoor public places. To find out more about your rights in New
Zealand, go to: www.hrc.co.nz or ring the Human
It is illegal to purchase cigarettes if you are
Rights Commission on Freephone 0800 496 877.
under 18 years of age.
Sometimes international students may
All WITT buildings are smoke free and there
experience ‘racial abuse’ where they are
are designated areas to smoke when outside.
treated unfairly or disrespectfully because of
‘race’. This is illegal in New Zealand — If you
Sexual assault laws experience racial abuse, talk to a WITT student
Sexual assault is any unwanted act of a sexual support staff member.
nature and includes anything from unwanted
sexual touching, to rape and sexual exploitation.
In New Zealand law, sexual assault happens
when one person does not freely consent to
sexual activity.
There is no consent if:
• You say no, or behave in a way that implies
no (e.g. pushing someone away)
• You don’t reply — you’re too drunk or
stoned to know what you’re doing, or
you’re sleeping/passed out
• The other person lies about what they are
going to do
• The other person manipulates, pressures,
threatens, or forces you to say yes
International Student Handbook | 15Keeping safe in New Zealand
New Zealand is a safe country but you still need to be careful and
look after yourself and your possessions.
Personal safety • Party safely and avoid excessive use of
alcohol and / or other drugs that impair
To keep yourself safe, we recommend:· your judgement and leave you vulnerable
• Do not have large amounts of cash on your • Do not accept a drink from someone you
person, in your bags and in your home or do not know. Always hold onto your own
flat. Keep money safe in a bank account. glass when out. Drink spiking does happen
The International Student Liaison Officer • Do not go off alone with a stranger
will help you open a bank account and
• Do not do things that are against the law
arrange for EFTPOS or Credit Cards
• Choose your friends carefully
• Do not lend money to other people
• Do not behave towards women in a way
• Do not leave your bag unattended. Always
that could result in you being accused of
keep an eye on your personal possessions
sexual assault.
• Be very careful when crossing a street.
Remember, cars in New Zealand drive Remember, help is never far away —
on the left Emergency Contact (24 hours).
• Do not go out at night by yourself. Go with • Call 111 for Fire, Ambulance and Police
a friend or in a group • WITT student 24/7 contact number
027 4660 412
16 | International Student HandbookWater safety Bicycle safety
New Zealand has beautiful beaches, lakes and Bikes are a great way to get from one
rivers. They are very popular but can be very place to another and to keep fit and
dangerous. If you want to enjoy New Zealand’s healthy. When riding a bike in New
lakes, rivers, swimming pools and beaches Zealand, remember:·
or participate in any water based activity, we • Wear a helmet - it is the law in New Zealand
recommend you:
• Do not ride on the footpaths
• Learn to swim. For details about lessons • You must have lights at night, white in the
contact: New Plymouth Aquatic Centre front & red at the back
06 759 6060
• Always use hand signals when turning
• If you are in trouble in the water — let
• Learn the New Zealand road rules
people know by raising your arm
(NZ Road Code)
• Always swim (kayak or fish) with someone
• Remember to buy a bicycle lock.
else – never go alone
• Always swim between the flags at the beach
Sun safety
• Always check the depth of the water before
diving or jumping in New Zealand has strong ultra violet sunrays
• Always wear fins or flippers when and high rates of skin cancer. To keep yourself
body-boarding safe while in the sun, we recommend you:
• Always swim at a comfortable depth • Stay out of the sun during 11am and 3pm
• Always wear a life jacket in a boat • Cover up with loose clothing
• Never swim in loose, long or baggy • Use sunscreen.
clothing. They get heavy when wet. For more information on sun safety go to:
www.cancernz.org.nz
Pedestrian safety
In New Zealand, cars do not stop for Outdoors safety
pedestrians unless they are on a pedestrian If out walking in the beautiful parks, walkways
crossing, therefore: or climbing the mountain, remember:·
• Always walk on the footpath • Take warm clothes as the weather can
• Take extra care when crossing the street change very quickly
• If there is no footpath and you need to walk • Take some food and drink
on the road, always walk facing the traffic so • Tell someone where you are going and
you can see cars coming when you will be back. Most mountain
• Never walk on the main highway visitor centres have a visitor book that you
• Cross at a pedestrian crossing (white lines need to write in before walking on the
painted across the road) or at a traffic light. mountain tracks
Wait until cars stop for you • All rubbish must be carried out
• When crossing at a traffic light only cross • You can get weather reports by phoning 0900
when the green “cross” signal is on. 999 + STD code – 06 for New Plymouth and
09 for Auckland.
For more information on New Zealand’s parks
and reserves go to: www.doc.govt.nz
International Student Handbook | 17Keeping well in New Zealand
Living in another country can be fun and exciting but sometimes
you may experience feelings of loneliness, frustration and sadness.
Culture shock • Bring familiar items from home to your
new country
Sometimes you may feel as if you don’t
• Keep in contact with family and friends in
know what to do or how to do things in New
your home country
Zealand. This is called “culture shock” and
many international students living in another • Get plenty of sleep and eat good food
country are affected by it in some way. • Get involved in a favourite activity or try
new ones
Ways to help culture shock • If work is proving too difficult talk to your
tutor or a Learning Advisor.
• Talk to WITT staff — the Student Liaison
For more information go to:
and Pastoral Care Officer, Counsellor,
www.counselling.cam.ac.uk/selfhelp/leaflets/
Chaplain or Nurse
homesickness
• Spend time outside in the fresh air
and sunshine
• Keep busy
Health services
• Join a club in the community or group on There are good professional health services in
campus or do voluntary work New Zealand including doctors, pharmacies,
• Keep fit dentists, hospitals and health specialists.
• Do nice things for yourself. It’s a good idea to find out where the local
doctor, dentist and hospital are located in case
Remember, culture shock is a normal part of you get sick or have dental problems.
adapting to another country and given time,
The telephone book has a section at the front
you will soon get used to the new ways of
that lists these. For “cost friendly” dentists see
doing things.
the health clinic staff.
If your English is poor, take a translator with
Homesickness you when you visit a health service.
Missing family and friends is normal. Here Medical insurance is compulsory for all
are a few suggestions that may help if you international students living in New Zealand —
are homesick: Medical insurance will cover medical, specialist
• Talk to someone about it - a tutor, the and hospital costs while in New Zealand.
Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officer, For information on the New Zealand health
Nurse, Chaplain or Counsellor system go to: www.health.govt.nz
18 | International Student HandbookWhat happens if you have about and can be discussed freely with
an accident? a doctor or nurse. You can be confident
that whatever you discuss with them will be
The Accident Compensation Corporation completely confidential.
(ACC) provides 24-hour personal injury and For advice and support on contraception,
accident cover for New Zealanders and visitors unwanted pregnancies or sexually transmitted
to New Zealand. This means that while you illnesses, see a doctor or visit the Family
are a student here, you are also entitled to Planning Association (FPA):
this cover.
• Refer to their website:
For more information go to: www.acc.co.nz
www.familyplanning.org.nz
ACC have access to a free telephone
• Visit your local FPA clinic located at 56
interpreting service called Language Line.
Gover Street New Plymouth, Ph 06 759 8269
Language Line operates Monday to Friday 10
am to 6 pm and is available in 35 languages. • Ring the free and confidential helpline:
0800 372 5463 (interpreters available).
For more information on Language Line go
to: www.languageline.govt.nz
Mental health
Sexual health Studying can be very stressful for any student.
In New Zealand, the age of sexual consent is When you are studying overseas, language and
16 years. It is illegal to have sexual relations culture differences can increase stress levels.
with a person under the age of 16 years even If you are having difficulty coping contact the
if he or she agrees. If you choose to have a Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officer,
sexual relationship, you must protect yourself Counsellor, Chaplain, Nurse or one of the help
against unwanted pregnancy and sexually agencies in this handbook.
transmitted infections (STI’s). Ask for help.
Contraception and sexual health are not We are here to help you.
something to be embarrassed or ashamed
International Student Handbook | 19Studying in New Zealand
Changing your address or to leave New Zealand or the period of
contact details? your study
• A Student Visa Application (INZ1012 is
If you change your address you must: available online)
• Fill out a “Change of Address” form — • An Offer of a Place from WITT
available from the Student Liaison and • An original Tuition Fee Receipt
Pastoral Care Officer, reception or your
• Passport photograph (Saved as a Jpeg)
faculty administrator.
• A bank statement showing you meet INZ
funds requirements including return airfare
NOTE: Students under 18 years of age cannot • Evidence of previous student performance
change their address without consultation and class attendance
with WITT staff.
• Credit Card to pay the Visa application fee.
For information on student visas go to:
www.immigration.govt.nz
Your student visa
While you are in New Zealand, most students Need immigration advice?
will need to renew their visa — To do this, you
will need to know: The Immigration Advisers Authority is
responsible for protecting people who receive
What kind of visa do you have?
immigration advice. For further information
• Visitors visa please see www.iaa.govt.nz
• Student visa
• Interim visa Travel and medical insurance
• Limited purpose visa
It is compulsory for all international students to
What date does your visa expire? hold medical and travel insurance, which the
Plan to apply for a new visa one month before education provider considers acceptable, for
the old visa expires the period of enrolment until the expiry of the
student visa, unless you depart New Zealand
What kind of visa do you need?
earlier. The travel and medical insurance
• You may study part-time or full-time for premium is provided within your “Offer of
three months with a visitors visa Place”.
• If you study for longer than 3 months, you If you wish to provide your own medical and
must hold a student visa travel insurance you must provide a copy of
• If you have a student visa you must study the insurance policy (translated into English)
full-time. to WITT for verification of acceptable cover.
Where to apply for a new student visa?
• Apply Online at www.immigration.govt. It is strongly recommended that students
nz/migrant/applynow when applying for undertake dental and optical checks before
a new visa. coming to New Zealand — Dental services
What you need to renew your student may be very expensive in this country.
visa online?
• Your passport must be valid at least 3
months past the date you either plan
20 | International Student HandbookPlease note that your insurance policy will Assessments and exams
not cover you for the cost of routine dental
maintenance and optical aids unless you had There are in-course assessments e.g., essays,
already been prescribed them before leaving presentations, tests, as well as exams.
your home country. Exams in New Zealand do not generally
involve reproduction of factual rote learning.
The New Zealand classroom Exams in New Zealand are designed to test
how well students understand concepts and
You may be a successful student in your home ideas presented during study.
country but studying in New Zealand may be Performance and progression are linked; if you
different from what you are used to. fail a course you may not be able to go onto
Students are expected to: the next course.
• Attend all classes and tutorials
• Complete all course requirements Academic conduct
• Ask questions Do not...
• Give opinions • Copy another students work and hand it in
• Listen to other students as your own
• Use English • Copy work from a textbook or from the
• Take part in discussions Internet without referencing the work (this is
• Use many textbooks and reference them in called plagiarism)
your written work • Take material into the examination room
• Work in groups to complete projects and without the tutor’s permission
assignments • Get someone else to write an assignment
• Do any homework or sit a test or exam for youNew Zealand
• Clarify anything you do not understand teachers will fail any work that has been
• Read the course textbooks, take notes copied or is not your own. Refer to WITT’s
during lectures and review and understand student code of conduct, available online.
the information discussed in lectures
and tutorials.
International Student Handbook | 21Study and learning support Your tutors will keep a record of your
attendance at classes. Any students with
If you feel worried about your ability to frequent or prolonged absences will be
succeed, don’t worry, there are places to go contacted. Immigration New Zealand will be
for help: informed if necessary. Non attendance may
• Your tutor affect your Visa eligibility.
• Other students
• Learning Advisors Computer use
Read “Study for Success” student study WITT offers all students generous use of
skills handbook. It is located on the WITT computing and networking facilities on
Library homepage (under the Facebook box) campus. The Student Code of Conduct states
with the direct link as follows — that students must NOT:
http://libraryhome.witt.ac.nz/
• Use WITT’s computing and networking
Utilise the staff at WITT. They’re here to facilities to transmit objectionable material
help you succeed. Ka pai. such as:
Remember… it is OK to ask for help. If you
- Pornography
need help, do not wait - access it early.
- Crime or violence
- Articles that describe or depict material
Attendance
in a manner, or of a nature, that is likely
Students are required to attend their course to cause offence
at all times, unless they have genuine reasons - Material that may slander or harass
for their absence. another person
It is important that you attend all classes and • Waste computer and networking resources
tutorials. Research shows that attendance is
• Play games — except where it is included
closely related to your success.
as part of course prescription
You must inform your tutors:
• Engage in inappropriate use of WITT’s
• If you are going to be late to class computing and networking facilities e.g.
• If you are going to be absent from class computer hacking.
• If you are going to be away for a period
of time.
22 | International Student HandbookThe Education (Pastoral Care of • You will receive enough information and
Tertiary and International Learners) support to help you with your enrolment,
including understanding the legal
Code of Practice 2021 obligations you have, and that you will
The Code is an agreement to ensure that all receive all the proper documentation
educational providers take responsibility for • You are welcomed and have enough
the well-being of International students. You information, guidance and support to help
will receive a Summary of The Code at the time you settle into your new life in New Zealand
that your Offer of Place documents are issued. • Your study environment is safe, and that
A full copy of The Code is available at you have a safe place to live.
the New Zealand Qualifications Authority
website: www.nzqa.govt.nz Withdrawing from your programme
This is legislation that outlines the level of care
of study
that education providers, and their agents,
must provide to international students while If you decide to withdraw from your programme:
they live in New Zealand. • You must complete a “withdrawal” form
In general, as an international student you can – available from reception or your school
expect that: administrator
• The quality of teaching and • You may apply for a refund of your
learning you receive will meet high fees. For “refund” information, see the
educational standards Conditions of Enrolment form in the back
• The marketing and promotion information of this handbook or WITT’s International
you receive before you enrol is clear, Refund Policy
complete and accurate so you can make • Students who withdraw from a programme
well-informed decision about whether have the right to apply for re-enrolment
an education provider is the right choice in the future
for you • Withdrawal from a programme will be
• Education providers’ agents give you written on the students academic transcript
reliable information and act with integrity • Immigration New Zealand will be notified.
and professionalism
International Student Handbook | 23Protection of funds the student cannot make up the missed
course time and will need to re-enrol to
If WITT chooses not to offer a programme that complete the course
you have enrolled in, you will get a full refund.
• Any breach of disciplinary regulations
If there is an insurable disaster (e.g., fire, flood),
WITT / NZIHT will run the programme at an • Being unable to comply with The Code
alternative site or offer a refund. regulations to ensure duty of care.
Please note that students have the opportunity
Termination of tuition to respond to any allegations of prejudicial
information before a termination is made,
WITT reserves the right to terminate a and all students have the right to appeal any
student’s tuition in the following circumstances: decision in accordance with Academic Appeals
• Continued and unexplained absenteeism policy and procedure.
• Provision of false or misleading information All terminations will be reported to
by the student on enrolment Immigration New Zealand.
• Insufficient academic progress
• Failure to pay fees For more information on termination of
• Where WITT is unable to guarantee tuition, on the appeal process and on your
accommodation for an international rights as a student and WITT’s obligations,
student due to the student’s behaviour see the Student Code of Conduct Policy
• In the event of criminal behaviour available from the enrolment team.
(including such behaviour outside
WITT’s premises)
• An inability to attend due to reasons such
as illness or family obligations, where
24 | International Student HandbookWorking in New Zealand
Work Working and the law
You may be allowed to work part-time for When working in New Zealand
up to 20 hours a week and full-time during • Do not work without permission from
all scheduled holidays and/or during the Immigration New Zealand
Christmas and New Year holiday period.
• Do not work for cash. In New Zealand this
For information on work visas go to: is called “working under the table” and
www.immigration.govt.nz is illegal
• Make sure you pay tax
Finding work in New Zealand • If working you must be paid a minimum
You can find out about job vacancies in wage www.employment.govt.nz/hours-and-
New Zealand by looking on the internet, wages/pay/minimum-wage/
in the local newspapers or by contacting For more information on working and the law
employers yourself. go to: www.newzealandnow.govt.nz
For help with these options visit
www.careers.govt.nz Volunteering
For more information on job vacancies go to:
Volunteering is a great way to build work
Internet sites to view Job Vacancies:
experience and offers a great way to network
www.careers.govt.nz with people in New Zealand.
www.occupationoutlook.mbie.govt.nz You can check what type of volunteer jobs
www.iaa.govt.nz best suit you by visiting Volunteering New
www.immigration.govt.nz Zealand or SEEK. Also the neighbourly website
www.seek.co.nz is a great way to help or get involved in your
www.trademe.co.nz/jobs community where you will live.
www.liveandwork.taranaki.info
Earning income and paying tax
Applying for a job In accordance with New Zealand law, when
When applying for jobs in New Zealand you working, the income you earn will be deducted.
will be asked for a “Letter of Application” and To find out more about your tax responsibilities
a current Curriculum Vitae (CV). and how to pay correct tax, please visit the
You may also be required to participate in a Inland Revenue Website — www.ird.govt.nz
job interview.
There is an online course at WITT to help with
these processes. The Careers Advisor will show
you how to access this.
International Student Handbook | 2526 | International Student Handbook
Under 18 year old students
The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International
Learners) Code of Practice 2021 has special requirements for
under 18 year olds.
Accommodation Reporting to parents
• You have to live in WITT assessed, • WITT staff are required to interview (meet)
approved and police vetted the student each term and keep records of
accommodation having done so
• You cannot change your accommodation • WITT will send to parents/agents reports
provider without WITT approval. each term on your attendance, your
wellbeing, accommodation arrangements
Indemnity form and progress in your studies
• Note: New Zealand Privacy laws apply.
An indemnity form must be completed
by parents and returned to WITT prior
to enrolment. Indemnity form
When a student who is under the age of
Emergency contact information 18 years is transferring from an approved
residential caregiver, they must consult with
• WITT must have your current emergency
the Student Liaison Officer and ensure that the
contact information of parents and agents
Transfer of Care Plan is followed.
Note: Translators will be used if required
• Ensure parents have the 24/7 emergency
contact number: For more information on the code
requirements for under 18 year olds visit:
WITT students: +64 27 466 0412
www.nzqa.govt.nz
International Student Handbook | 27Complaint overview
How do I voice a concern? The Complaints Officer will forward your
complaint to the Faculty Leader (for your area)
In the first instance you are encouraged to or relevant manager for investigation. The
raise your concern directly with the relevant investigation may involve discussions with
staff member and seek resolution. It is often you and/or other parties involved, or through
helpful to discuss your concern with someone mediation, if required.
else who can provide initial advice, such as
Once your complaint has been investigated
the Student Liaison Officer, counsellor, nurse
you will be notified in writing of the outcome
or chaplain.
of the investigation and any action/s to be
taken (where applicable). If the complaint
What if my concern is not resolved or is unresolved or you are not happy with the
I wish to make a formal complaint? outcome, you have the right to appeal in
writing to the Chief Executive.
If your concern is not resolved or you wish to
make a formal complaint you can do so by: If you are not satisfied with the outcome from
the CE, you should contact New Zealand
• Completing a Confidential Complaint form
Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
• Written letter or email
Phone: 0800 697 296
• Discuss directly with the Complaints Officer.
Email: qadrisk@nzqa.govt.nz
Formal complaints should include the Forward completed complaints to:
complainant’s name UNLESS there are special The Complaints Officer / Quality Assurance
circumstances for which confidentiality must be Division, PO Box 160, Wellington 6140.
maintained. The formal complaints policy and
If it is a financial dispute, you can contact
procedure can be obtained from the intranet,
iStudent Complaints
a Student Liaison and Pastoral Care Officer or
Phone 0800 00 66 75. More information is
any member of the student success team.
available on the iStudent Complaints website
www.istudent.org.nz
What happens to my formal
complaint now that I have raised it? Will my complaint affect my marks?
All formal complaints are forwarded to the WITT is committed to ensuring that any person
Complaints Officer, at the Customer Service raising a concern or complaint is protected
Centre. The Complaints Officer will log your against harassment, retaliation or victimisation.
complaint and forward to you a letter or email If at any time you feel you are being treated
of acknowledgement, within 7 days of receipt unfairly since making your complaint, you can
of complaint. bring this to the attention of the Executive
Director Corporate or Executive Director
Student Success.
28 | International Student HandbookI HAVE I HAVE
A PROBLEM A CONCERN
Discuss your problem Raise your concern
• directly with the relevant • talk to the Student Liaison
staff member, and Pastoral Care Officer
• with the Programme • talk to your tutor
Lead or, Choose if you want to be
• with the Student Liaison contacted or to remain
and Pastoral Care Officer anonymous
PROBLEM SOLVED?
NO YES
I WANT TO MAKE A
FORMAL COMPLAINT PROBLEM SOLVED?
Take your issue/ complaint to
Registry to be lodged.
This formal complaint will follow
WITT’s Complaints Process NO YES
(available on iWITT or from any
success team staff member)
CONTACT NZQA
Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS)
0800 697 296
qadrisk@nzqa.govt.nz
International Student Handbook | 29International students
conditions of enrolment
Refund policy: • If a student wishes to withdraw or transfer
to another institution, his/her application
1.1 Refunds of tuition fees will be made in
and notice is received by the enrolment
accordance with the Policy and Procedure
team prior to programme commencement,
International Student Withdrawals, Transfers
a refund of 70% of tuition fees paid will be
and Refunds:
given (30% is retained for administration
1.2 By accepting a place in a programme at WITT, purposes). The registration and homestay
an international student enters a contract with placement (if applicable) are not refundable.
WITT for the period of the one academic year
1.8 Refunds will be paid in New Zealand dollars:
(or for the length of the programme if less than
one year). • To another institution
• Into a nominated bank account.
1.3 There is no automatic right to a refund of fees if
a student changes his/her mind about studying 1.9 WITT will not be liable for any exchange rate
at WITT. Supporting information must be loss or bank fees charged upon repayment of
submitted in writing to the enrolment team with a refund.
any refund application. 1.10 Exceptions may be made in exceptional
1.4 If Immigration New Zealand (INZ) refuse to circumstances for compassionate reasons.
grant an initial student visa for study in New Compassionate grounds are considered to
Zealand the student is entitled to a 100% refund be events outside the individual’s control that
of the tuition fee, less a $500 administration. could not have been predicted and that have
had a significant impact on the person’s ability
1.5 No refunds to international students will be
to continue studying in the current academic
given after the programme has commenced.
year or the foreseeable future. This could for
1.6 Full Refunds may be given if: example include such things as significant
WITT is unable to proceed with the programme accidents or personal injury to self or a close
or course offered family member that would affect the student’s
WITT ceases to be a Code signatory ability to continue studying. Compassionate
grounds will not be considered sufficient for a
WITT ceases to be a provider
refund of fees where the student could have
1.7 Other refunds may be given if: continued in the programme with support or
where the student has chosen to withdraw for
• An international student’s visa renewal is
other reasons.
beyond the expiration date and the student
cannot obtain an Interim Visa, the student 1.11 • Consideration may be given to a refund
will not be able to attend classes, and is not upon receipt of written evidence which must
entitled to a refund of fees be submitted by the student, or the school
• A student in a semester-based programme on the student’s behalf, to Registry at the
who gain permanent residency will not same time as the completed Change of
receive a refund or fees for the semester in Enrolment, Withdrawal and Refund Form
which residency is granted. However, they • Exceptions may also be considered on the
will be treated as a New Zealand Permanent grounds of medical, supported in writing by
Resident for the following semester and a health professional
refunded any international fees paid beyond • The application should be made prior
the semester in which residency was granted to withdrawal, or where circumstances
• International students in programmes prevent prior application at the earliest
designed with full-year non-semester based possible time
courses must pay the international fees for • All withdrawals for compassionate
the full year, regardless of the date on which consideration must be forwarded by the
permanent residence has been granted Information and Enrolments Administrators
during that year to the Director – Corporate Services.
30 | International Student HandbookThe decision to refund fees on Fee protection policy:
compassionate grounds will take into
3.1 In the event that WITT chooses not to offer
consideration the length of time in a
a programme, enrolled students will have
programme/courses. The Director –
their funds returned in full. In the event of
Corporate Services has authority to decide
an insurable disaster, e.g. fire, flood, WITT
the refund on compassionate or other
is insured by a Business Interruption Policy.
grounds for any individual case.
This policy provides for the running of our
1.12 Variations to Policy programme at an alternative site, or meeting
Under exceptional circumstances, the Chief contractual obligations to refund students
Financial Officer may authorise a variation to where WITT is unable to deliver as a result of the
rules set out within this policy. Requests for any insurable event.
variation in policy must be submitted in writing.
Insurance
Termination of tuition 4.1 Travel and Medical Insurance is compulsory for
2.1 WITT reserves the right to terminate a student’s international students for the period of their
tuition in the following circumstances: visa. A provision for the insurance premium
• Continued and unexplained absenteeism is included within your Offer of a Place. If
• Provision of false or misleading information you wish to provide your own insurance, you
by the student on enrolment must provide a copy of the insurance policy,
• Insufficient academic progress translated into English, to WITT for verification
of acceptable cover. The premium will be
• Failure to pay fees
refunded on arrival at WITT on submission of
• Where WITT is unable to guarantee appropriate evidence.
accommodation for an international student
due to the student’s behaviour General
• In the event of criminal behaviour (including 5.1 You must attend classes at all times, as required,
such behaviour outside WITT premises) unless you have a genuine reason for your
• An inability to attend due to reasons such absence. Immigration New Zealand require us to
as illness or family obligations, where the report non-attendance.
student cannot make up the missed course
5.2 Immigration New Zealand may request
time and will need to re-enrol to complete
information about your academic records,
the course
results or progress. You agree to WITT
• Any breach of disciplinary regulations releasing this information.
• Being unable to comply with The Code 5.3 If you have been issued with a Student Visa and
regulations to ensure duty of care. withdraw from your programme of study, WITT
2.2 Please note that students have the opportunity will report to Immigration New Zealand.
to respond to any allegations of prejudicial 5.4 While enrolled, you must abide by the Rules and
information before a termination is made, Regulations as outlined by WITT.
and all students have the right to appeal any
decision in accordance with Academic Appeals
policy and procedure.
2.3 All terminations of tuition will be reported to
Immigration New Zealand.
For more information on termination of tuition,
on the appeal process and on your rights as
a student and WITT’s obligations, see the
Student Code of Conduct Policy or contact
international@witt.ac.nz
International Student Handbook | 31Useful kiwi phrases
English phrases Te Reo Māori phrases
Barbie Barbecue Aotearoa New Zealand
Bro Friend E noho ra Farewell
Bush Native Forest Haere mai Welcome/Enter
Cheers Good luck / Goodbye / Haere ra Goodbye
Thanks He aha tō ingoa What is your name?
Chemist Pharmacy / Drug Store Ka kite anō Until I see you again
Chippies Potato Crisps Kai Food
Chips French Fries Ka pai te kai This is great food
Dairy Corner Store Kia Ora Hello/Thank you
Flat Apartment / Shared Rental Koha Donation/Gift
Accommodation
Ko ... ahau My name is ...
Heaps A lot
Marae A gathering/meeting
Jandals Thongs / Flip-flops place
Lift Elevator Mihimihi Greetings
She’ll be right It will be OK Tena koutou Greetings (to three or
Sunnies Sunglasses more people)
Sweet as Good / Cool Whanau Family
Tramping Hiking Whenua Land
Togs Swimsuit / Bathing suit
32 | International Student HandbookLocal resources
Accommodation Legal issues
Te Henui Lodge Taranaki Community Law Centre
(WITT’s on-site accommodation) 06 759 1492
06 758 0431 0800 529 1492
stay@tehenuilodge.co.nz
www.tehenuilodge.co.nz Police
Migrant Connections Taranaki
New Zealand Police
06 759 1492
06 759 5500
www.migrantconnections.org.nz
www.police.govt.nz
Medical services Sexual health & sexual abuse
Taranaki Base Hospital
Family Planning Association
06 753 6139
06 759 8269
Medicross
Taranaki Safer Centre
06 759 8915
06 758 4178
Phoenix Doctors
Rape Crisis
06 759 4294
06 757 9570
International Student Handbook | 33National resources
Accommodation Work
Department of Building and Housing Inland Revenue Department
0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262) Automated Services - 0800 257 777
www.sorted.org.nz General Tax Enquiries - 0800 227 774
New Zealand Tenancy Service www.ird.govt.nz
Bond Enquiries - 0800 737 666 NZ Department of Labour
Tenancy Advice - 0800 83 62 62 Employment Relations Service
www.tenancy.govt.nz 0800 20 90 20
www.employment.govt.nz
Driving and owning a vehicle
New Zealand Transport Authority
Workers’ rights
General Road Safety 0800 699 000 Employment Relations
Driver Licensing 0800 822 422 Infoline - 0800 800 863
Vehicle Registration 0800 108 809
info@ltsa.govt.nz Reporting a crime or talking
www.nzta.govt.nz
to the police
General advice (personal, housing, New Zealand Police
Emergency Services only - 111
financial, vehicle and legal issues) www.police.govt.nz
Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB)
0800 FOR CAB (0800 367 222) Victim support
CAB in Mandarin 09 625 8831
www.cab.org.nz Victim Support
0800 VICTIM (0800 842 846)
Immigration NZ - Information for
victim@xtra.co.nz
New Migrants
www.victimsupport.org.nz
0800 776 948
www.newzealandnow.govt.nz/
Relationship advice
Racial & sexual harassment Relationship Services
0800 735 283
Human Rights Commission
receptn@relate.org.nz
0800 496 877
www.relationships.co.nz
infoline@hrc.co.nz
www.hrc.co.nz
34 | International Student HandbookHealth Asian Public Health Service
09 262 1855 —
ext 5719
Counselling services Asian Sexual Health Service
(for confidential help with personal 09 307 2885
crisis or suicidal feelings) Chinese Helpline
0800 888 880
Lifeline
0800 111 777
www.lifeline.org.nz
Education & Immigration
Chinese Lifeline (Mandarin & Cantonese) The Education (Pastoral Care of
0800 888 880 Tertiary and International Learners)
www.lifeline.org.nz
Code of Practice 2021
Youthline
0800 376 633 (This Code of Practice will apply from 1 January
youthline@youthline.co.nz 2022, replacing the current Codes of Practice.)
www.youthline.co.nz New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
04 463 3000
Gambling counselling www.nzqa.govt.nz
Problem Gambling Helpline
0800 654 655 Making a complaint relating to a
info@gamblingproblem.co.nz breach of the code of practice
www.gamblinghelpline.co.nz New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
0800 006 675
Medical Services qadrisk@nzta.govt.nz
Ambulance
111 Police
New Plymouth Police
Drug or alcohol counselling 95 Powderham Street
NZ Drug & Alcohol Helpline 07 759 5500
0800 787 797 www.police.govt.nz
www.drugfoundation.org.nz
Student visa
Smoking Immigration New Zealand
Quit Smoking Line www.immigration.govt.nz
0800 778 778
Translation services
Asian health services www.dia.govt.nz
Asian Mental Health Service
09 410 0604 Immigration advisers authority
Asian Health Support Service 09 925 3838
09 486 8347 www.iaa.govt.nz
International Student Handbook | 3520 Bell Street, Private Bag 2030, New Plymouth 0800 WITT NZ +64 6 757 3100 international@witt.ac.nz www.witt.ac.nz 20 Bell Street New Plymouth 4310
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