Category Archives: Health and Wellbeing

Protect yourself and others

Getting a flu jab is your best defence against the virus this winter.

Domestic UC students enrolled at the UC Health Centre will be able to get FREE flu vaccines from 3 April 2024. For international and domestic students who are not currently enrolled at the Health Centre, the UCSA and the UC Health Centre are offering 1000 FREE flu vaccinations.

How to get your vaccine

  • Phone reception and book an appointment at the UC Health Centre on 03 369 4444 (ext. 94444) or contact your registered medical provider to book with them instead.
  • Please don’t come to the Health Centre if you feel unwell and phone reception to let them know

If you have any questions regarding the vaccine, please contact UC Health Centre or your own medical practice. For further useful information, visit the Ministry of Health’s website.

Make the most of your break!

You’re almost halfway through the first semester! Soon you will be able to reset, recharge, hang out with your whānau and mates, and do a few things you enjoy.

It might feel like the last thing you want to do, but the mid-semester break is also a great time to get ahead on your studies and assignments. Although lectures won’t be running, UC’s support services will still be here to help you catch up on study and plan ahead for the rest of the semester.

Look after yourself
It’s easy to put your health on the backburner when life gets busy with study and work. Over the break, it’s a good idea to book in those appointments you’ve been meaning to get to.

Te Whare Hauora | Health Centre offers a range of services, including check-ups and counselling, all at a low cost – or even for free – depending on your enrolment.

UCSA also offers a subsidised dental scheme for students, with discounted check-ups, hygiene appointments and treatments. You can learn more here>

Feeling burnt out?
It’s normal to feel tired after a busy term, but sometimes it’s more than that. If you need to talk – about feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or anything else that’s bothering you – Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care team are here to help. Learn more & book an appointment>

Get outdoors
Feeling stuck on an assignment? Sometimes all it takes to get your brain moving is a bit of fresh air. Ōtautahi is known as the garden city for good reason, with a huge range of beautiful green spaces to enjoy, including the nearby Riccarton BushBotanic Gardens or Mona Vale. Even a five-minute stroll along UC’s Okeover Stream can do the trick!

If you’re looking to go further afield, ChristchurchNZ have put together a fantastic list of walks to explore>

Talk to someone who’s been through it too
Uni is exciting – but also challenging. If you’re feeling a little lost, it’s great to talk to someone who’s been there and done that – an older UC student. There’s a range of mentorship options available. Learn more and register to get a mentor here>

Take charge with Te Pokapū Pūkenga Ako | Academic Skills Centre
With Term 2 workshops soon to be released, the break is the perfect time to book in some classes, whether you’re looking to upskill in notetaking, presenting or essay writing. You can also book in an individual consultation with a Learning Advisor to get help with specific assessments or challenges you’re facing. Learn more about Te Pokapū Pūkenga Ako here>

Not sure about your courses?
Reaching the end of Term 1 can make you reflect on the work you’ve done so far, and what your options are for the rest of the semester. Uni is all about growing and changing, so if you’re thinking about changing courses, UC’s kaitohutohu ākonga | student advisors are incredibly helpful when planning your degree.  

Make time for you 
Over the next few weeks make sure to refresh, recharge, hang out with your whānau and mates, and take some time for yourself too. Ngahau! (Enjoy!)

Have a well-deserved mid-semester break!

Unwind with a Deep Restore Yoga Session

The end of Term 1 is rapidly approaching and with that comes a flurry of essays, mini-tests and other assessments that can lead to a little more stress overload than usual.   Why not try a 2 hour Deep Restore yoga session to nourish your nervous system? 

Yoga student in supported reclining butterfly pose
Reclining Butterfly pose in a Deep Restore class
Deep Restore with Heart and Mind Yoga 

We’ve collaborated with Jo Jarden of Heart and Mind Yoga to bring you a heavily discounted Deep Restore experience.    Utilising science-based relaxation techniques and deep stretches, enjoy a gentle guided practice to relax the nervous system and unwind. 

Absolutely no experience is required, just an open mind and willingness to relax for 2hours! 

How to book

Spaces are limited to just 40 people, so we would suggest making your booking as soon as you can!   Bookings are via the Rec&Sport app, and your place will be secured once you’ve made payment ($8) at the RecCentre.   

When is it?

Sunday 24th March, at 11.30am.  You’ll need to arrive by 11.15am to get settled, and class starts at 11.30am.   For all the info, visit our Specialty Classes webpage.

Ngā mihi
Te Ratonga Hākinakina | UC Rec&Sport