Open Day
Explore study options, take a campus tour, view the Halls of Residence, talk to staff and experience what it is like to be a student at Waikato.
Be in to win a PS5
Register for Hamilton Open Day or Tauranga Open Day to go into the draw to win a PS5.
Join us for Open Day!
Start planning your next steps after secondary school at Open Day.
Hamilton campus Open Day
Friday 23 May 2025, 9am – 2pm
Tauranga campus Open Day
Wednesday 25 June 2025, 10am – 1pm
Register for the event you are interested in to receive Open Day updates.
Hamilton Open Day Information Sessions
Can history save the world?
10am in S.1.02
Surrounded by misinformation, disinformation, and bias, historians interpret sources to sort fact from fiction. Studying the past helps us make better decisions for the future.
Politics: When social media, God, pandemics, AI, and ninja robot armies combine
10am in room L.G.04
Politics is everywhere – like a sneaky god! It shapes our society, international (dis)order, and the geopolitical interactions between countries. It’s key to humanity’s survival – so understanding it is absolutely crucial!
Sociology Behind the Brew: Coffee, Masculinity, and Social Change
10.30am in room S.1.05
Sociology looks at everyday life and how our personal experiences are connected to bigger social forces, like power and stereotypes. We'll talk about how 'hipster' identities and ideas of masculinity are linked to the work of baristas and coffee roasters.
Arts Festival Style Talks: English, International Languages and Cultures, Linguistics, and Media and Creative Technologies (1 hour)
11am–12pm at the Playhouse Theatre, GAPA
Step into a world of inspiration! Attend short lectures from various subject areas, where you can stay for the full hour or drop in for individual talks of interest.
Unlock the World: Skills for a Planet in Motion
11am in room S.G.01
Discover a world of opportunities with our Bachelor of Global Studies. In today's world, nations, economies, cultures, and societies are more interconnected than ever before. Understanding and navigating these global connections is crucial.
Criminology: What do we know and how do we know it
11.30am in room L.G.01
Criminology challenges what we think we know. This talk illustrates how we can thoughtfully question NZ stereotypes and assumptions about criminal justice, through investigating popular understandings of crime, crime rates, and crime data.
Seeing with an Anthropology Lens
11.30am in room S.1.01
Anthropology digs deep to reveal what’s hidden in plain sight, sparking empathy and fresh perspectives. It uncovers how culture and context shape our world, offering unique insights into human societies and experiences that challenge assumptions.
Arts Festival Live Performances: Music, Writing Studies, Dance and Theatre Studies (1 hour)
12pm–1pm at the Playhouse Theatre, GAPA
View world-class performances from School of Arts creatives, all who will offer a different style! You can stay for the full hour or drop in for individual performances of interest.
Good excuses for killing people (and other things Philosophy can do for you)
12pm in room L.G.01
Killing people is bad... Right?! We need courageous thinkers to grapple with life’s big questions. But be warned, once you start doing philosophy, you may never be the same again. Stop merely surviving; start living!
Our world through a population lens
12pm in room S.1.04
Is the global population collapsing? Should we be concerned? Explore Population Studies and how it can help answer these questions and improve our understanding of the world around us.
Who wants to save the world?
12.30pm in room L.G.02
Human Rights are the language of justice and protest. We use them to judge states (and even individuals) for their moral failings. We ask a lot of Human Rights — are they up to it?
Bachelor of Communication: Weave stories with digital threads
9.30am in room S.G.01
Master industry-relevant skills to become a communications specialist and digital storyteller, using diverse technologies from websites and apps to films, podcasts, and social media.
Economics in action
9.30am in room L.G.03
Join one of our multi-award winning Economics lecturers to discover the power of simple economics and how it can transform decision-making and improve wellbeing for society.
Supercharge your career: Waikato Management School
10am and 12.30pm in PWC
Discover Waikato Management School: Where academic excellence, real-world experiences and global perspectives will supercharge your career.
Tikanga and the law
10am in room S.G.02
In 2022, the Supreme Court considered the place of tikanga Māori in New Zealand law when Peter Ellis died before his appeal could be heard. We discuss why the court continued with the appeal.
Why Study Law at Waikato
10.30am in PWC
Studying law develops a wide range of analytical, communication, and writing skills applicable across all sectors. We’ll discuss the building blocks that are hard-wired into Te Piringa’s undergraduate Law qualifications that ensure success.
R v Dudley and Stephens - Is eating people ever legal? (10 minutes)
11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 12.30pm at the Moot Court
Join us for a moot performance of R v Dudley and Stephens, where Te Piringa students question Captain Dudley about the cabin boy’s death and cannibalism. As the audience, you decide - is Captain Dudley innocent or guilty?
Find a rewarding career in Finance
10.30am in room MSB.1.01
At Waikato, you will study real-world examples in finance, gaining practical skills and knowledge to boost your career and stand out in the job market as soon as you graduate.
Build tomorrow's organisation for future challenges
10.30am in room L.G.03
Study Strategic Management and learn how to make impactful decisions and gain a lasting competitive edge in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Discover your future in Accounting
11am in room L.G.01
Explore the world of Accounting and discover why it is an exciting and dynamic career with ever-evolving advancements.
Peak performance: Maximise people potential with Human Resource Management
11am in room MSB.1.05
Explore diverse HR career paths, unlock exciting roles that maximize your potential, fulfillment, and rewards in the dynamic and evolving field of Human Resource Management.
Empowering Business: from information to automation
11am in room MSB.1.36/1.37
Learn how organisations can use technology to turn data into knowledge, drive digital transformation, and gain a competitive edge in today's era of technological disruption.
The future of money
11.30am in room MSB.1.05
Prepare to work in the cutting-edge world of banking and fintech, where technology-driven innovations such as AI, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies are shaking up the industry.
How Marketing drives the world's most successful companies
11.30am in PWC
Discover how all successful companies place marketing at their core, using data to understand their customers better, craft brand stories, and reach customers in person and online.
From field to future growth
11.30am in room MSB.1.01
Study Agribusiness in the heart of New Zealand’s rural hub, gaining industry-driven knowledge to prepare for a global career in agriculture and business.
Economics Experimental Lab
12pm in room MSB.1.02
In this interactive experiment, you'll participate as a trader, make strategic decisions, and see how prices form. Discover how economics shapes real-world markets and how your choices impact supply, demand, and profits!
Leading for success
12pm in room MSB.1.05
Discover what it takes to be an effective leader with New Zealand's first undergraduate Leadership subject major, equipping you with essential skills for success in any career.
Keep goods moving
12pm in room MSB.1.36/1.37
Discover the complex nature of freight operations and the critical role of Supply Chain Management ensuring that goods are available on retail shelves when and where they are needed.
The power of communication to influence people and inspire change
12pm in PWC
Learn how to craft communication strategies that build relationships, drive change, and manage crises. Understand the importance of media, social media, and events coordination in the public and private sectors.
Careers in Law from the New Zealand Law Society
1pm in room L.G.02
This presentation from the Waikato/Bay of Plenty branch of the New Zealand Law Society will talk you through the various possible career pathways for qualified legal professionals.
Bachelor of Communication: Weave stories with digital threads
9.30am in room S.G.01
Master industry-relevant skills to become a communications specialist and digital storyteller, using diverse technologies from websites and apps to films, podcasts, and social media.
Everything is Design, Design is Everything
10am in room S.G.01
Designers have influenced everything we interact with today. From apps to animations, and print to products, design thinking and design processes enhance our daily experiences. We will highlight how studying Design will prepare you to create positive experiences for Aotearoa and the global stage.
The Psychology Behind Designing for Media
11.30am in room L.G.02
Learn about the psychology behind design and how it informs design thinking for media, technology and products to generate desired responses and behaviours from viewers and users.
The power of communication to influence people and inspire change
12pm in PWC
Learn how to craft communication strategies that build relationships, drive change, and manage crises. Understand the importance of media, social media, and events coordination in the public and private sectors.
Life in the classroom: Current Teachers share their journey (1 hour)
9.30am and 12.30pm in Te Whare Tāpere Iti, GAPA
Being an educator: Everyone's story of teaching in kura/school is different. What could your story be?
Change the world through education
10.30am in Te Whare Tāpere Iti, GAPA
Māori Medium Teaching Opportunities
11am in Te Whare Tāpere Iti, GAPA
Smart robots for curious minds
11am, 11.30am and 12.30pm in the Dance studio, GAPA
An interactive session of play with robots designed for shaping young minds in the classroom. Check out how new technologies will help kids learn, laugh, and grow.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
11am in room S.1.03
Have you ever considered a career as an English language teacher? This presentation will introduce our new Masters of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and explore the opportunities it can present you.
International opportunities in Bachelor of Teaching
11.30am in Te Whare Tāpere Iti, GAPA
Navigating times of opportunity and challenge
12pm in Te Whare Tāpere Iti, GAPA
Postgraduate Pathways: Unlocking your future in education
12pm in room S.1.03
Big impact starts small: How early childhood education at The University of Waikato can change the world one child at a time
12.30pm in MSB.1.02
The New Zealand Graduate School of Medicine
9.30am in PWC
Studying Bachelor of Sport and Human Performance
10.30am in room S.1.02
Learn more about the Bachelor of Sport and Human Performance and how you can develop a career in the sport, recreation, exercise and health industries.
Human Performance Science: It's not what you think it is, or is it?
11am in room S.1.02
Hear about fascinating scientific studies that our staff conduct to gain insight into real-world behaviours that occur in sport and human performance.
Discover your future in Nursing: Undergraduate and Graduate entry Nursing Programmes at Waikato
11am in room L.G.02
Join our undergraduate and graduate entry nursing programmes at The University of Waikato. Gain hands on experience, expert knowledge, and a supportive community to prepare you for a rewarding career in health.
Studying Pharmacy at Waikato
11am in room S.1.01
In response to the chronic shortage of pharmacists in in Aotearoa NZ, compounded by a low proportion of Māori and Pacific pharmacists, the University of Waikato has introduced a new graduate-entry Master of Pharmacy Practice degree this year. Learn more about this proposed new programme and how this serves as an attractive pathway to for those with existing bachelor’s degrees in health or science.
Studying Health at Waikato
11.30am in room S.1.05
An introduction to the Health Promotion programme and career pathways.
From Bench to Bedside: Biomedical Sciences as a Gateway to Diverse Careers
12.30pm in room L.G.04
Biomedical scientists create new drugs to tackle challenges in health and disease. Learn about careers in industry, cutting-edge biomedical research and pharmacy and medical pathways. Join us to understand how you can contribute to a healthier tomorrow.
Studying Midwifery at Waikato
12pm in room S.1.01
There is a critical shortage of kahu pōkai/midwives in Aotearoa NZ, a problem that is compounded by a low proportion of Māori and Pacific kahu pōkai/midwives. Learn more about the Master of Clinical Practice (Midwifery) degree that will help address this shortage by providing an education pathway that attracts a new cohort of students to the midwifery profession.
Unlocking Aotearoa: Why Māori Culture Matters to You
10am in the Wharenui, Ko Te Tangata, The Pā
Learning about Māori culture, language and knowledge is not just for Māori; it is crucial for all New Zealanders and international visitors to comprehend how Aotearoa/New Zealand’s unique Indigenous culture defines New Zealand’s identity - it is a cultural, social, economic and political force.
Be Māori Everyday
10.30am in the Wharenui, Ko Te Tangata, The Pā
Kīngi Tūheitia said, “Just be Māori, every day…” That's sometimes easier said than done. I’m a Pākehā who has walked in the Māori world for a while, I am a speaker of te reo Māori. Stories from my journey will hopefully help you with yours.
Pacific Studies Matters
11am in the Wharenui, Ko Te Tangata, The Pā
Want to dive into the rich cultures, histories, and issues shaping the Pacific today? Discover why Pacific Studies matters - empowering identity, knowledge, and career pathways!
A life changing REO journey
12pm in the Wharenui, Ko Te Tangata, The Pā
Te Tohu Paetahi (TTP), is exploring university life with future lifelong friends. TTP is strengthening cultural understanding within a secure system and community. TTP is a program 35 years established, and its where you should enrol next, to start your reo journey. Nau mai, haere mai ki Te Tohu Paetahi. Tieeee!
Being Human - Why People Matter in Computer Science
9.30am in room S.G.02
Creating software isn’t just about writing code. If you don’t understand people, your software is doomed to fail. Come and find out how we solve human-centred computing problems at Waikato.
Shaping the Cities of Tomorrow
9.30am in room S.1.05
Discover how Environmental Planning tackles today’s biggest challenges like climate change, inequity, and housing shortages. Learn about the University's specialized program and why our graduates are in high demand across diverse and rewarding career paths.
Psychopathy: What causes it, and is trauma part of that puzzle?
9.30am in room L.G.04
Research into psychopathy reveals it’s neither born nor made, but for some, criminal victimisation in childhood may be part of the picture. Why is that and what is its relevance to the criminal justice system?
Women in Engineering
9.30am in room S.1.02
Engineering is for everyone, regardless of gender. At Waikato, 23% of our engineering students are women, bringing valuable perspectives that drive innovation. If you're a woman considering engineering, join our talk and explore your future in the field!
Building a Sustainable Future with Civil and Environmental Engineering
10am in room L.G.01
Discover civil and environmental engineering. Civil engineers design and build infrastructure, while environmental engineers protect natural resources and reduce pollution. Learn how you can help create a safer, more sustainable world.
Geography, bushmeat and the origins of COVID-19
10am in room S.1.05
Like other zoonotic diseases, COVID-19 spread from vertebrate mammals to humans. The spread of COVID-19 may be traced to habitat loss as human demand for bushmeat increased in response to food insecurity and poverty.
Study Science at Waikato
10am & 11.30am in room S.1.04
If you are curious about the world around you, a career in science could be for you. Think natural environment or health and well-being, food or technology — science is everywhere.
Speak of the Devil: Identity and scientifically-sanctioned alienation with 'psychopaths'
10am in room L.G.05
Psychopathy is a personality disorder that is characterized by lack of empathy, lack of remorse, superficial charm and antisocial behaviour. This talk explores the label ‘psychopath’ and the associated stigma.
Cyber Security 101
10.30am in room L.G.05
Cyber attacks are on the rise and cyber criminals are always on the lookout for unsuspecting victims. Learn how cyber criminals take advantage of weak passwords and why you should use strong passwords when you make an online account.
Earth & Environmental Sciences - Understanding our world: from volcanoes and earthquakes to climate change and pollution
10.30am in room S.1.04
We must find better ways to use and protect natural resources and deal with hazards like floods, earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis. Earth Science and Environmental Science graduates are in high demand globally and can chose from many career paths.
To diagnose or not to diagnose? Moving beyond symptoms to a transdiagnostic view of mental health and wellbeing
10.30am in room L.G.04
Diagnostic symptoms are common in mental health, with many individuals meeting criteria for multiple diagnoses. This talk explores recent conceptualisations of mental health, focusing on transdiagnostic constructs that enhance intervention strategies and improve outcomes.
From Apples to Atoms, how Chemistry has its fingers in every pie
11am in room S.1.04
Chemistry is everywhere! Why food tastes the way it does, honey turns brown after heating, why fireworks are colourful, how algae can be turned into medicine and waste can be recycled – it’s all chemistry.
Studying artificial intelligence at Waikato
11am in room L.G.04
AI is a hot topic and has some useful applications. This talk will look at Waikato papers that you can take to study AI from the perspective of computer science.
What makes us tick: Psychology at Waikato
11am in PWC
Psychology explores human and animal behaviour and cognition in various environments. In this session, we will share information about our School, highlighting unique areas of teaching and research that distinguish our approach to psychology.
Why study Maths and Data Analytics
11am in room MSB.1.01
When you see numbers, do you immediately try to find patterns? Does the letter x mean more than just being the 24th letter of the alphabet? Learn about Mathematics and Data Analytics and what doors they open.
Kaupapa Māori psychology and community psychology: Through the lens of activism.
11.30am in room L.G.03
This lecture explores Kaupapa Māori psychology and community psychology through the lens of activism, challenging common sense ideas about the world and working to design and create systems that support fairness, equity and social justice.
A Future in Mechatronics and Electrical & Electronic Engineering
12pm in room L.G.02
Electrification, automation, AI, and robotics are shaping the future. Our Software, Mechatronics, Electrical, and Electronics Engineering programs equip you with hands-on skills to innovate and lead. Join us and become a master of emerging technologies!
“Tough on crime” and other myths
12pm in room L.G.03
Ever wonder if being "tough on crime" and other crime policy rhetoric really works? We examine the evidence behind these claims and consider what science can teach us about reducing the harm caused by crime.
From Bench to Bedside: Biomedical Sciences as a Gateway to Diverse Careers
12.30pm in room L.G.04
Biomedical scientists create new drugs to tackle challenges in health and disease. Learn about careers in industry, cutting-edge biomedical research and pharmacy and medical pathways. Join us to understand how you can contribute to a healthier tomorrow.
Computing: Science and Engineering
12.30pm in room L.G.01
People develop software for a job or for a hobby, because it’s creative and fun. Explore the differences between the types of programming in Computing, especially the differences between a Software Engineering or a Computer Science degree.
Ecology and Biodiversity - understand, protect and manage life in our terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems
1pm in room S.1.02
Study Ecology and Biodiversity to understand, manage and protect terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems. We’ll describe the papers you can take, the research you can contribute to, and the career pathways our graduates have followed.
Engineering a Sustainable and Renewable Energy Future with Chemical & Process, Materials & Process and Mechanical Engineering
1pm in room L.G.01
Engineers drive the future of energy, developing innovative solutions in renewables. Learn how mechanical, chemical, and process engineers are shaping a cleaner world — and how you can be part of the change.
Uni prep
9.30am in room L.G.02
Thinking about studying at the University of Waikato but not sure what we offer or where to begin? Our Future Students Team can talk you through the process and answer your questions.
International students
9.30am in room S.1.04
Join our International Students session to learn about admissions, scholarships and student life support. Hear from current international students, ask questions, and explore campus life. Get the information you need to start your journey with us!
Pacific at Waikato
10am in room M.1.42
Kia orāna, mālō e lelei, tālofa lava, fakaalofa lahi atu, ni sa bula vinaka, taloha ni, halo olgeta, ia orana, ko na mauri, wa wa wa, aloha mai, and warm Pacific greetings! Come along to hear about programs and our awesome learning village that have been designed to benefit Pacific students.
Student life
10am in room L.G.02
There is a lot more to University than studying! Hear from current students about their experiences.
Parents session
10.30am in room MSB.1.02
This session covers student support, pathways, key dates and the application process so you can support your young people in the transition to University study.
Scholarships
10.30am in room L.G.01 and 11.30am in the Concert Chamber, GAPA
Join the University of Waikato Scholarships Team to discover more about school leavers scholarships. You will be guided through finding and applying for scholarships, what to include in your application, and crucial deadlines. This talk is a must attend for students and caregivers eager to unlock educational potentials and ease financial burdens.
Degree structures, double majors and conjoint degrees - everything you need to know
11am in room L.G.05
Learn more about how a degree is structured and the difference between a conjoint programme and a double major. Our Future Students Team are here to help you make an informed choice about study options at the University of Waikato.
Halls of Residence and Accommodation
11am and 12pm in the Concert Chamber, GAPA
At our Hamilton campus, we have accommodation options for all students and lifestyles. From our halls of residence that offer full support to aid in the transition into university, to Silverdale apartments and Orchard park that offer an independent lifestyle, find a room that will suit your needs.
International Directors update
11am in room M.142
In this session, International School Directors will receive key updates on admissions, scholarships, and student support. Connect with university representatives and gain insights to better guide your students toward studying with us.
Global Experiences
11.30am in room L.G.04
In a well-connected world, having global experience is increasingly valued in graduates. Globalise your degree and boost your career with a Global Experience.
Māori ki Waikato kōrero
11.30am in the Wharenui, Ko Te Tangata, The Pā
Māori ki Waikato, is a whānau dedicated to supporting tauira Māori. Hear about how Māori Ki Waikato can support your academic journey.
Careers Advisor update and lunch
12pm - 1pm in room MSB.1.20/MSB.1.21
We welcome all Careers Advisors and Teachers to an update on the University of Waikato, followed by Lunch.
Open Day Zones
Location: Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts (GAPA)
Subjects: Anthropology, Criminology, Dance, Digital Learning, Education & Society, English, Global Arts, History, Human Development, Human Rights, International Languages and Cultures, International Relations, Law, Linguistics, Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Population Studies and Demography, Psychology, Screen and Media Studies, Sociology and Social Policy, Teacher Education: Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary, Theatre Studies, Writing Studies
Location: Waikato Management School, Law
Subjects: Accounting, Agribusiness, Business Analytics, Digital Business, Economics, Finance, Fintech, Human Resource Management, Law, Leadership, Management Communication* (*subject to final approval), Marketing, Project Management, Public Relations, Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management
Location: The Pā
Subjects: Applied Digital Communication, Communication Design, Creative Media, Industrial Design, Interface Design, Media Design, Media Production
Location: The Pā
Subjects: Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Medicine, Midwifery, Nursing, Pharmacy, Sport and Human Performance
Location: The Pā
Subjects: Māori and Indigenous Studies, Pacific and Indigenous Studies, Te Reo Māori
Location: The Pā
Subjects: Aquaculture, Artificial Intelligence, Biomedical Sciences, Chemical & Process Engineering, Chemistry, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Crime Science, Cyber Security, Data Analytics, Earth Sciences, Ecology and Biodiversity, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Planning, Environmental Sciences, Geography, Marine Science, Materials and Process Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Software Engineering, Psychology, Kaupapa Māori Psychology, Forensic Psychology
Location: Te Manawa - the Student Centre (Level 2)
Services: Accessibility Services, Accommodation, Global Experiences, Jump Start, Māori ki Waikato, Pacific at Waikato, Scholarships, Student Athlete Support Hub, UniRec/Clubs, Work-Integrated Learning
Join us for Community Open Day!
We welcome whānau, friends and the wider community to The University of Waikato Community Open Day.
Whether you are attending university for the first time, considering a postgraduate qualification to upskill or change careers, or are supporting a family member interested in tertiary study, come and talk to our friendly staff and get your questions answered. Learn about our flexible learning options, scholarships and the support services that set our students up for success.
Community Open Day
Saturday 12 July 2025, 10am – 1pm
The Pā, Hamilton Campus
Be in to win an Outdoor Cinema
Register for Community Open Day to go into the draw to win an Outdoor Cinema.
Can't wait until Open Day?
Information sessions and events
The team are here to answer your questions about studying at Waikato, can offer advice with selecting a degree that best matches your career interests, support you with your application and answer any other questions you have about student life.
Campus tours
We would love to show you around the Hamilton campus or Halls of Residence. Register to come on one of our monthly tours.
Frequently asked questions
The Open Day Programme will be available on our website a few weeks before each Open Day.
It is completely free to attend. All you have to do is register for the event you are interested in.
Free WiFi will be available. Select the ‘waikato’ network to access Wi-Fi.
- Hamilton: Limited free parking will be available on campus in Gate 2B, off Knighton Road and in Gate 10, off Silverdale Road. Please note, we are expecting a large number of vehicles on Friday therefore we recommend carpooling, taking the bus, or arriving early.
- Tauranga: Parking on the day is limited to on street parking, so please keep this in mind when making travel arrangements as this will be on a first come first serve basis.
At Open Day, there will be a talk for parents and caregivers. Check the event programmes for more information.
Prospective students, and their families and whānau, can talk to the Future Students Team about subject and degree choices, University Entrance requirements and pathways to study. They can also provide information on the enrolment process, scholarships, accommodation, costs and support services.
Appointments are available via phone, Zoom or face-to-face (in either Hamilton or Tauranga) between 9am and 4pm on weekdays. Book an appointment.