Getting started at UC

UC is a big place, and the shift from high school into tertiary study can feel challenging. If you find yourself feeling unsure or a bit overwhelmed at any point, please know that these kinds of concerns are incredibly common, especially at the beginning, and they usually ease as you settle in and build routines and connections. Learn more about Student Care>

Accepted your enrolment agreement? Here are your next steps>  

Herea tō waka | Welcome Day

Herea tō waka | Welcome Day is happening this Friday, the week before term begins. It’s your chance to explore campus, get a head start on course and timetable info, check out student services, and feel confident for day one at UC. Come along to ask questions, meet other new students, and get everything sorted before classes start. 
Register here>  

Sort your timetable  

Once you’ve accepted your Enrolment Agreement, you’ll be able to create your personalised class schedule using My Timetable. It’s your responsibility to check where and when your lectures and tutorials are, so it’s a good idea to get organised early. Learn how to organise your timetable here>   

Get your Student ID | Canterbury Card 

Your Student ID | Canterbury Card is your official UC identification, and you should always carry it with you while on campus. 

To get one: 

1. Accept your Enrolment Agreement 

1. Visit the Security Office, 114 Ilam Road 

1. Bring photo ID (passport, driver’s licence, or previous student ID) 

Use AKO | LEARN for Course info 

AKO | Learn is where you’ll find everything you need for each course, including: 

• Course calendar and materials 

• Assessment details 

• Important lecturer updates 

• Ways to connect with course members  

Make a habit of logging in regularly.  

Visit Te Pātaka | Student Services 

UC’s Te Pātaka | Student Services hub is the first place to visit if you’ve got a question or need help with something while you’re studying here.  

📍 Located on Level 2 of Puaka–James Hight Central Library, in the centre of Ilam campus.  

Connect with Kaitoko | First Year Student Advisors 

Kaitoko provide academic, pastoral and holistic support to help first year students navigate UC and achieve their study goals. Kaitoko have specialist areas of academic knowledge and can help you with course changes, degree planning, navigating study pathways and guiding you in accessing other support services. Read more about Kaitoko here>  

Support when things feel tough 

If university is feeling like a struggle, Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care is here for you. 

Student Care Advisors offer free support for all UC students, including off-campus and online learners. 

Appointments can be booked here>  

Health and Wellbeing on campus 

Te Whare Hauora | UC Health Centre provides GP services, counselling, and other health support. 

Free vaccinations will be available during Orientation Week (limited supply). 

📍 UC Health Centre 

📅 16–20 February 2026, 9am–4.30pm 

(Book in person at the Student Wellbeing office next to the UC Bookshop) 

Respectful relationships and safety 

University is also a time to learn how to look out for yourself and others. 

Do you know how to prevent harmful sexual behaviour? Learn what a healthy relationship looks like, how to intervene when needed, and who to contact for help. 

Take the quiz here>  

Find your way around 

Feeling a bit lost? UC Campus Maps can help you find lecture rooms, cafes and key services. 

Check out Campus Maps here>  

Travelling and Parking 

There are lots of ways to get to campus, including public transport, cycling and walking. 

Read more about travel options here>  

Parking info and e-permits are available here>  

Alcohol Ban  

There is a 24/7 alcohol ban in the Riccarton–Ilam area, including Ilam Road, Ilam Fields, and University Drive. 

Read more here>  

Save UC Security’s Number 

Security staff are on campus 24/7. 

Save this number now: 0800 823 637 

Show it saved in your phone on Welcome Day and get a free ice cream 🍦 

Get Involved: Clubs Day and UniLife 

With around 170 student-run clubs and societies, there’s something for everyone. 

UCSA Clubs Day 

📅 Tuesday 17 & Wednesday 18 February 

🕚 11am–2pm 

New to UC and not living in a hall? Join UniLife, a mentoring and social programme for new students.  

Download the UC Student App 

For quick access to: 

• Timetables 

• Campus maps 

• Student notices 

Find out more here>  

You’ve got this 

Starting university can feel like a lot, but support is everywhere, and it gets easier as you settle in. 

Ask questions, explore campus, meet new people, and take it one step at a time.