ICA

International Students

Culture shock

Studying in New Zealand is an exciting opportunity, but as you adjust to a new environment outside of your comfort zone, you may experience something known as culture shock. Culture shock describes the feelings of confusion, stress, or uncertainty that may occur when you encounter behaviours, customs, or communication styles that differ from your home country. It is real, common, and completely normal—almost all international students experience it in some way while adjusting to life in New Zealand.

Most students begin their journey in the “honeymoon phase,” where everything feels new, exciting, and full of discovery. After settling into study, work, and daily routines, it’s also common to feel frustration, loneliness, confusion, or homesickness. You may find that what felt natural at home doesn’t work the same way here, making even simple tasks feel challenging or unfamiliar.

Culture shock can appear in many ways: feeling isolated, irritated, overly dependent on people from your own culture, or even questioning your decision to study abroad. These reactions are temporary and normal—and understanding them is the first step toward adapting.

Ways to Cope with Culture Shock
  • Acknowledge your feelings – they are a universal part of adapting to a new culture.
  • Be patient with yourself – settling in takes time.
  • Stay open-minded – avoid judging New Zealand customs based on your home country.
  • Stay active and engaged – explore, join activities, and maintain a routine.
  • Connect with others – balance time with people from home and new friends.
  • Write things down – journaling helps you reflect and track your progress.
  • Set small goals – celebrate small wins to build confidence.

As you learn more about New Zealand’s culture, you will begin to feel more confident and less disoriented. Remember, support is always available—from staff, counsellors, cultural advisors, and fellow students.

Homesickness

Homesickness is a common experience for international students adjusting to life in a new country. Even if you're excited about studying in New Zealand, being far from familiar places, people, and routines can cause feelings of sadness, anxiety, or longing for home. These emotions may appear soon after arrival or even weeks or months later, especially around birthdays, holidays, or special events.

Homesickness affects everyone differently. Some students feel lonely or unmotivated, while others may experience physical symptoms like tiredness or difficulty sleeping. These reactions are normal and temporary—they do not mean you made the wrong choice.

Ways to Cope with Homesickness
  • Talk to someone you trust—teachers, tutors, support staff, or counsellors.
  • Stay in touch with family and friends back home.
  • Look after your physical health—sleep, nutrition, and exercise matter.
  • Give yourself time—adjusting is a gradual process.
  • Avoid making big decisions too quickly.
  • Join clubs, hobbies, or campus activities to meet others.
  • Explore your surroundings to build familiarity and belonging.
  • Seek help early if study becomes difficult or homesickness affects daily life.

If feelings of homesickness become overwhelming or persist, reach out to student support or a health professional for help.

New Zealand National Helplines

🚨 Emergency Services — 111
For immediate danger or if someone is at risk of harming themselves or others.

📱 1737 – Need to Talk?
Free call or text 1737 (24/7)
Speak with a trained counsellor any time.

📞 Lifeline Aotearoa
0800 543 354 (0800 LIFELINE) | Text 4357 (HELP)
Confidential emotional support, 24/7.

📞 Suicide Crisis Helpline – 0508 TAUTOKO
0508 828 865 (24/7)
Specialist support for those in distress or supporting others at risk.

👩‍🎓 Youthline
0800 376 633 | Text 234 | Webchat | Email
Youth-focused support and counselling.

🧒 What’s Up?
0800 942 8787 (11am–11pm daily)
A helpline and webchat for children and young people.

Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand
https://mentalhealth.org.nz/helplines