Creating belonging from day one

More than 3,800 learners have already begun or returned to study at NMIT in 2026, with strong application numbers continuing for upcoming intakes.

In 2026, NMIT’s student community continues to grow in richness and diversity, with learners from more than 30 ethnicities and nearly 18% identifying as Māori.  

So far, almost 800 students have taken part in orientation activities across the Nelson campus, with sessions delivered over multiple weeks to ensure learners studying during the day, evenings and weekends all had access to support.

NMIT Learner Success Team Lead Ren Stronach says the focus has been on helping students feel confident from the moment they arrive. 

“It’s awesome to see our new ākonga settling into life at NMIT,” says Ren. “We want them to feel supported and connected from day one, so they can make the most of their studies.”

The year began with a tailored orientation for students with accessibility needs, including those with neurodiversity, anxiety, or learning differences. Held in a smaller, quieter setting, students were encouraged to bring support people with them, an approach that was warmly received.

“We run bespoke orientations for groups with different needs,” Ren says. “For example, for learners with anxiety, a big crowd can be overwhelming. Having a smaller group and allowing support people to come along was really affirming for them.”

Orientation sessions were delivered across nearly all programme areas, alongside dedicated welcomes for international students - including English language learners from partner institute Kanagawa University in Japan, whose orientation was delivered in Japanese to help them feel at home from day one. An orientation session conducted completely in te reo Māori was also held for part time ākonga in the full immersion Level 5 and 6 Te Reo programme.

Throughout the sessions, students were introduced to the wide range of wellbeing, academic and cultural support available to them, as well as connection opportunities such as Māori and Pacific student gatherings, Rainbow community meet-ups, a neurodiversity hui and international events.

The start of semester was also marked by food and welcome events hosted by the NMIT Students’ Association, SANITI, helping learners meet new people and settle into campus life.

Some new learners shared their thoughts on the welcome they'd received over the first few weeks:

“There is a massive amount of support available to students.”

"They're a friendly and approachable team that I would feel comfortable going to see if I need them." 

"Good we get to be part of everything and learn where everything is."

"I feel welcome everywhere."