Construction of new student accommodation is underway at the University of Waikato Hamilton campus, with 75 new rooms set to be available at the start of 2026.
Having this year welcomed its largest-ever international and school-leaver student cohorts, the University’s Chief Operating Officer Jim Mercer says the time is right for the University to add to its accommodation offering.
“Providing ample student accommodation is key to us meeting current demand and planning for future growth,” he says.
Artist impression of the student accommodation.
The two- and three-storey townhouse-style apartment buildings on Knighton Road will contain a total of 15 apartments, with five bedrooms in each.
They join the University’s existing suite of in-demand catered and self-catered accommodation offerings on the campus which totals 1,121 beds.
Director of Student Services and Pastoral Care Dr Brett McEwan says the new apartments have been designed with community and connectivity in mind.
“We’ve aimed to create a sense of community for the students who will live in these new buildings by providing shared areas that will support a range of group activities,” Dr McEwan says.
Waikato University's accommodation team Bianca Nichol, Leigh Sanderson, Rod Arnold, TJ Cloete and Brett McEwan.
The layout also ensures that the new spaces are well-integrated with the wider student residential village by incorporating pathways and common spaces that connect with nearby amenities.
The new apartments will be self-catered, enabling a flexible and independent living experience on campus.
“Quality accommodation plays a key role in attracting students and enhancing the student experience, and we’re proud of this new development,” Dr McEwan says.
Foster Construction has been appointed to complete the build. With works to prepare the site in progress, the University anticipates that construction will be complete by December, and ready for students to move in before the start of A Trimester 2026.
“We know that prospective students will be starting to consider their study options for 2026 soon, and we’re pleased to be in the mix with this strong new accommodation offering,” Mr Mercer says.
“We’re also very mindful that the University is on a strong growth track in both domestic and international student enrolments.
“In this context, we anticipate further growth in student accommodation over the coming years.”
Pricing for the new apartments is to be determined with applications for 2026 due to open in the second half of this year.
