High school students will travel from across New Zealand to explore student life at this year’s University of Waikato Tauranga Open Day on Wednesday 1 July.
In the University’s single biggest recruitment event of the year, the city centre campus will open its doors to hundreds of prospective students, offering them a chance to explore study options and get a taste for student life. The programme includes short lectures on the range of study pathways available at the campus, tours of the purpose-built student accommodation Selwyn St Studios, and recreation activities in the Campus Clubhouse alongside the University’s partners, the Magic netball team.
University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Alister Jones says events like this are an important part of the University’s commitment to the region.
“We see firsthand how education, research and innovation can strengthen communities, support economic growth and create opportunities for future generations. Events like Open Day are a critical part of this, where our community can connect with our unique and welcoming campus and see firsthand the world-class education we offer,” says Professor Jones.
Mount College has sent busloads of its students to Open Day since the campus opened its doors in 2019, and Principal Alastair Sinton says the University is a real asset for the city.
“A strong local university gives our young people genuine choices. The ongoing city centre developments are incredibly exciting, and we encourage students to attend the Open Day to explore the fantastic pathways available right on their doorstep,” says Mr Sinton.
Career Pathway Manager at Mount Maunganui College Jane Doherty says the ongoing development of the University’s Tauranga campus and across the city centre presents an exciting opportunity for young people in the Bay of Plenty.
“We strongly support students attending Open Day because it allows them to explore high-quality tertiary education close to home while gaining insight into emerging career pathways linked to the region's future workforce needs,” says Ms Doherty.
“Rather than exporting our young talent to other parts of New Zealand, the growth of tertiary education in Tauranga strengthens the pipeline between education, industry, and employment, helping to retain and develop the skilled workforce our region will need in the years ahead.”
First year Bachelor of Science student, and former Mount College pupil, Davi Vogel-Braymer says he chose to study in Tauranga because it had everything he needed.
Bachelor of Science student Davi Vogel-Braymer attended Open Day in 2025
“I thought, why not study here? I can save money and stay close to my parents. You can still make new friends and have the same unique student experience as other cities, but it has the benefit of being on a smaller campus and the lecturers are so supportive,” says Davi.
Originally from Rio, Brazil, Davi is a keen surfer and is majoring in marine science.
“I like Tauranga, it’s very warm and beachy, it’s the best city in New Zealand. Not many universities you can just go to the beach on the same day as attending your lectures.”
This year, student numbers at the Tauranga campus have increased by 9% compared with 2025. Student growth is a key strategic focus for the University, which recently signed a strategic partnership agreement with Tauranga City Council, committing to further grow its study and accommodation options for students and enhance the city centre.
International student numbers have also doubled on last year’s, and the campus will host several international agents, responsible for promoting the University to prospective international students, at its Open Day. The Tauranga campus’ supportive environment, strong sense of community, and links to industry are a strong drawcard for international students.
Tauranga Open Day runs 10am-1pm, Wednesday 1 July and students or parents interested in attending can register now and view the programme online.
