How to Beat Homesickness While Studying in New Zealand: A Heartfelt Guide

Before we dive into how to cope, it’s important to understand that homesickness isn’t something to feel ashamed of. It’s simply the emotional reaction to being away from home and the people you love. It can make you feel sad, anxious, or even physically tired, but it’s a sign that you have strong bonds and attachments back home. It’s totally normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re not enjoying your time abroad. 

It’s also important to remind yourself that this feeling doesn’t last forever. With the right strategies, you can adjust to your new environment and find joy in your new life while keeping the memories of home close to your heart. 

One of the most comforting things to know is that New Zealand has a solid support system for international students. There’s a Code of Pastoral Care in place to ensure that every student feels safe, cared for, and well-supported. Your educational provider offers free pastoral care services tailored to your needs. So, if you’re feeling homesick, don’t hesitate to reach out to them. They can help you manage stress, connect with mental health resources, or simply lend an empathetic ear. You're never truly alone! 

Pastoral care is free through your education provider, and can be tailored to fit around your work and study schedules. 

While you might initially miss the familiar aspects of home, immersing yourself in New Zealand’s vibrant culture can be a fantastic way to embrace your new surroundings. Whether it’s exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of the country or learning about its rich Māori heritage, New Zealand has so much to offer. 

Why not take up a language class? Whether it’s improving your English or learning Te Reo Māori, language classes offer a great chance to meet people and build connections. You’ll bond over the excitement of learning something new, and these friendships can help ease feelings of homesickness. 

Another fun way to feel more at home is to get involved in local sports and activities. Whether it’s trying out rugby, netball, or even your favourite sports from back home like football or basketball, joining a team is a great way to stay active, meet new people, and create meaningful connections. Plus, it’s a fun reminder that you’re capable of adapting to new things while keeping parts of home with you. 

Thanks to technology, staying in touch with friends and family has never been easier. With strong Wi-Fi and reliable mobile networks, you can easily video call or chat with your loved ones back home. And even though there’s no substitute for face-to-face interaction, hearing familiar voices or sharing an evening online with family can help you feel grounded and loved. 

If sending postcards or letters helps bring a little piece of home to your study life, New Zealand’s postal system is trustworthy and efficient. Just remember to plan ahead for those special occasions, as mail can take a bit longer around the holidays like Christmas.    NZ Post’s website has rough guidelines on what time frames to expect when sending mail overseas, but these can change depending on how busy they get. 

A wonderful way to ease homesickness is to find clubs or societies that reflect your cultural background. Many universities in New Zealand offer student groups for a wide variety of cultures, faiths, and interests. These clubs often host social events, dinners, and activities that bring together students from similar backgrounds. Finding a space where you can share stories, foods, and traditions from home can make all the difference in feeling connected. 

A former international student from Brazil who studied in New Zealand, Jenifer shared her experiences with dealing with homesickness. 

While you’ll likely spend a lot of time on campus, New Zealand has so much more to offer. Don’t hesitate to explore local communities, cafes, parks, and events outside your university. A simple search online can lead you to vibrant cultural gatherings, special interest groups, or even people who share similar experiences to yours. 

One great example comes from Jenifer, a former international student from Brazil. When homesickness struck, she found comfort in connecting with the Brazilian community in New Zealand, enjoying familiar food, music, and the warmth of people who truly understood what she was going through. This approach can make a world of difference. 

Pengbo Jiang, an international student from China who studied at Victoria University of Wellington and Massey University, shares valuable advice for settling into life in New Zealand. His insights about connecting with others, maintaining a healthy routine, and embracing new experiences are not only practical but also comforting. (You can read his advice here). 

Homesickness is just one part of the beautiful adventure that is studying in New Zealand. While it may seem overwhelming at times, with the right support, it will pass. Remember that it’s okay to feel this way, and it’s a sign of how much you value your loved ones. But also know that you are building a new life here — a life that’s rich with new friends, new experiences, and opportunities for growth. 

In conclusion, homesickness is part of the process, but it doesn’t define your experience abroad. Whether you reach out for help, connect with others, or embrace the incredible opportunities New Zealand offers, you’ll find ways to adjust, grow, and thrive. Your new adventure is just beginning, and you’ve got this!