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Make the most of your break!

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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 Bush, Botanic 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!

Behaviour and Responsibilities

It’s time! Check you’re emergency ready

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With daylight saving ending soon, it’s a good time to check you’re ready in case of emergency.

A few quick questions:

  • Have you saved UC Security’s number in your phone?

UC Security staff are on campus 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so someone will always be there to help you in an emergency at UC. Be prepared by saving UC Security’s number: 0800 823 637.

  • Are your emergency contact details current?

It’s easy to update your details through myUC. Take a moment to check the person you’ve listed as your emergency contact is still appropriate, and their details are still correct. While you’re logged in to myUC you can also check your details are up-to-date (especially if you’ve moved recently), in case someone from UC needs to reach out to you.

  • Do you know about UC’s Help point towers?

There are 13 help towers (topped by blue lights) located across UC’s Ilam and Dovedale campuses to provide information any time, and immediate assistance in an emergency. Read more>

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Commemorating March 15th

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Dear Members of the University Community,

On March 15th, a date etched in our collective memory for the tragic events that unfolded in Christchurch, we are reminded of the profound impact it continues to have on individuals, families, and communities, both near and far.



At the University of Canterbury, we acknowledge with deep compassion the pain and sorrow that persists within our Muslim community and beyond. We recognise that among our students and staff, there are those who have been directly affected by the events of March 15th, 2019, and who continue to grapple with the enduring trauma and loss.

As members of a diverse and inclusive university community, it is incumbent upon us to stand together in solidarity and support. In this spirit, we want to emphasise that our hearts are with all those who are still healing from the wounds of that fateful day.

If you feel the need to talk, share, or seek guidance in processing your emotions or experiences related to March 15th, we want you to know that support is available here at UC. Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care offers the dedicated services of a Muslim Student Advisor Abdifatah Ibrahim (email) who is here to provide understanding, empathy, and assistance tailored to your needs.

Additionally, as we reflect on the significance of this day, we invite you to join in commemorating March 15th by acknowledging the innocent lives lost and reaffirm our UC commitment to fostering equity and diversity; as expressed in UC’s Strategic Vision. UC recognises that a sense of belonging is an integral part of university life. We’re committed to developing a diverse, culture-rich, cooperative environment for everyone.

In the words of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), “The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion, and sympathy are just like one body. When any part of the body suffers, the whole body feels pain.” Let us continue to stand together as one body, offering solace, support, and strength to each other during this difficult time.

With heartfelt solidarity,

Abdifatah Ibrahim, Muslim Student Wellbeing Advisor, and Atawhai Ākonga | Student Care team

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