Tauranga campus history
Get your degree by the sea at our award-winning Tauranga campus.
Our Tauranga campus has enhanced the range of qualifications available to students in one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most sought-after locations - combining beautiful beaches, a relaxed lifestyle and world-class university study.
With current capacity for 1,500 students, our smaller campus is a great option if you want a more independent study experience. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll feel a sense of belonging.
Why choose Tauranga?
Location, location, location
Te Moana o Toi | Bay of Plenty lives up to its name and offers an enviable coastal lifestyle, including the gold-sand beaches of Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa, while still being close to Auckland and Hamilton.
Small campus, big opportunities
A smaller campus means smaller class sizes and more one-on-one contact with our friendly teaching and support staff. They’ll get to know you by name and be committed to help you achieve your study goals.
Gateway to success
Home to a busy port and global export giants including Zespri (kiwifruit) and Comvita (mānuka honey), Tauranga has many opportunities for Work-Integrated Learning industry placements, internships and future employment.
Deep dive
Our location is ideal for students who want to explore life below water with our Bachelor of Science in Aquaculture or Marine Science (new in 2024) and only available in Tauranga, and Environmental Sciences with a marine foc
Unlock potential
Every year the University of Waikato offers hundreds of scholarships to students and, thanks to our generous donors, there are scholarships specifically for students who choose Tauranga as their study destination.
Free and convenient
The free Kaimai Shuttle runs between our Tauranga and Hamilton campuses during teaching periods and is available for students to commute for study purposes. This keeps us well connected to our Waikato whānau (family)
Our Home in the Bay
Our award-winning city campus, nestled in the heart of Tauranga, is part of an ever growing educational precinct that includes state-of-the-art science and engineering laboratories; field stations for high performance sport, coastal and marine science, an
Student Services
Level 1 Hub houses student services, aiding from enrollment to graduation. Advisors guide for Māori, Pacific support, learning assistance, accessibility, sports, health, and more.
Student Life
Tauranga offers diverse interests from art to surfing. The Waikato Students' Union organizes on-campus events and manages clubs, fostering a rich student experience. Engage in activities, events, and clubs for a unique and vibrant student life.
Choosing your Course
Tauranga campus provides degrees, diplomas, and certificates, mirroring Hamilton's programs with unique offerings. Flexible structures allow customization to match strengths and career goals. Choose full- or part-time study, accommodating diverse commitm
Discover our Cultural Narrative
Our campus embodies a cultural narrative with connected installations and artworks, celebrating diversity and embracing our cultural identity and heritage. The narrative reflects our community's richness and connections across the Bay of Plenty, Aotearoa
See what our students & graduates say
Marine Science - new in 2024
Study Marine Science at our Tauranga campus where you’ll be at the heart of thriving marine-based industries, coastal communities and Aotearoa New Zealand’s busiest port.