Waipapa noho marae for Study Abroad students

30 Study Abroad students from 14 countries came together for the noho marae (overnight stay), to spend a day and night at the University’s Waipapa Marae and learn about Māori culture and customs.

They were joined by peers from Ngā Tauira Māori, the University of Auckland Māori Students Association, who guided the students’ exploration of te reo (language) and tikanga (protocol) with fun games and group activities. Students were welcomed onto the marae and learned greetings, songs and dances.

New Zealand’s unique culture is often one of the main drawcards for Study Abroad students choosing the University of Auckland. Study Abroad Manager Sarah Sung says, “This programme is a great example of how we can connect new international students with Māori culture, and how current students are able to contribute to the international student experience.”

An energetic talk on the Treaty of Waitangi from guest speaker Dr Tiopira McDowell, a Māori Studies lecturer at the University, was a highlight for many students, who also enjoyed the engagement with Māori students, meeting fellow international students and learning about each other’s cultures.

“Part of the reason why I came to New Zealand is to learn more about the cultures that are unfamiliar to me… so coming into this experience has been really great,” said Anastasia Barbato from the University of Southern California. “The highlights of this programme have been really connecting with the international students that are on the programme with me. The hosts here have been so gracious and so welcoming.”