The University of Auckland

Diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion

A place where everyone can belong

At the University of Auckland, we’re committed to making sure that you feel safe, supported and valued, no matter who you are or where you come from. We look forward to welcoming you into our friendly and diverse community.

Diversity and inclusion are
more than just words

We treat diversity and inclusion as much more than just words at the University of Auckland. To us, they are a way of being.  


The safe and welcoming, inclusive culture of the University is at the very core of who we are. In fact, being inclusive and celebrating everyone's unique differences are major themes in our official organisational principles and values, which guide everything we do. This includes supporting students and staff through equity and diversity initiatives, resources, student services, policies and programmes.

Diversity and inclusion are common themes in our guiding Te Ao Māori (Māori world) principles and our organisational values.

Diversity and inclusion are more than just words

We treat diversity and inclusion as much more than just words at the University of Auckland. To us, they are a way of being.


The safe and welcoming, inclusive culture of the University is at the very core of who we are. In fact, being inclusive and celebrating everyone's unique differences are major themes in our official organisational principles and values, which guide everything we do. This includes supporting students and staff through equity and diversity initiatives, resources, student services, policies and programmes.

Diversity and inclusion are common themes in our guiding Te Ao Māori (Māori world) principles and our organisational values.

New Zealand's warm and welcoming culture

New Zealanders (also known as 'Kiwis') are known for being open and friendly, and you will be immediately welcomed into the local culture.


There are many opportunities to get to know the locals, as well as other international students. As you spend time with others, you will be encouraged to learn about their cultures, backgrounds and lifestyle preferences, and to share your own beliefs and experiences.

Manaakitanga is one of our Māori guiding principles. It means caring for those around us in the way we relate to each other.

Our commitment to fair treatment and support

We believe in equity for all at our University – which means everyone receives fair access, and everyone is provided with the tools, knowledge and support they need to participate, share experiences and succeed. 

An equity team dedicated to fairness

The Equity team is committed to maintaining and promoting a culture of equity, diversity and inclusion across every part of university life.

They help to promote our policies about fairness and equity, and provide you with information and support in relation to your rights, the University's commitment to inclusivity, and any specific needs you might have during your time at the University of Auckland.


On our Equity webpage, you can find great resources for learning about how you'll be supported, and how you can support others.

Support services

We welcome students from all over the world to New Zealand, and we understand the challenges you might face – whether they are to do with language, study, work or student life. Sometimes you might need to ask questions, seek guidance, get some extra support with your studies, or get help for your physical or mental health. You never need to feel alone at the University of Auckland, with our range of support services specifically for international students.


If you have a temporary or long-term illness, disability or mental health concern that might affect your ability to study, we also have other support services that are open to all students. These include our health and wellbeing Campus Care area, on-campus counsellors, and dedicated disability support area.


It is all part of making sure you can succeed in your studies, just like any other student.

Clubs and societies where you can find your fit

You can really find a community where you belong at the University of Auckland. There are clubs and societies that have been set up not just for fun and recreation, but also to help students find the people they feel most comfortable with – students from similar cultures or backgrounds, those who share similar religious or political beliefs, and those who have similar life preferences or experiences.