The University was founded in 1897 and teaching began in April 1899 with 115 students enrolled in the first year.
Early years
For the first few years, lectures took place in rented accommodation in the city while a debate raged over where the new University’s home should be built. Eventually, the College Council decided to build on ‘six vertical acres’ in Kelburn, the site of the Kelburn campus today.
Research
Research at the University began in 1899 following the arrival of the University’s four pioneering Professors—Thomas Easterfield, Hugh Mackenzie, Richard Maclaurin and John Rankine Brown.
Growth
In 1904, the first stage of what is today known as the Hunter Building was begun, and the building was opened in 1906 by the Governor of New Zealand, Lord Plunket.
A pattern of growth was quickly established. Student numbers rose from 254 in 1905 to over 700 in 1923, with three additions made to the building over this period. A reputation for fine teaching and research also grew, thanks to the efforts of early academics such as Professors ‘Tommy’ Hunter, J.C. Beaglehole and George von Zedlitz.
In 1961, the University of New Zealand system was dissolved, and on 1 January 1962, Victoria College became Victoria University of Wellington.
Expansion
The University incorporated the Wellington College of Education as the Faculty of Education on 1 January 2005. The following year, the New Zealand School of Music was established by Victoria University of Wellington and Massey University, a centre of musical excellence that combined the institutions’ music programmes.
Today
From a single campus in Kelburn with fewer than 260 students, Victoria University of Wellington has grown into a network of campuses, research centres, institutes and partnerships worldwide.
Campus plaques are located across the University offering insights to those who have contributed to the University since it was established in 1897.
Faculties and schools
A list of the faculties at the University, and the schools that are part of them.
Public transport
How to get to and between our campuses on foot, by bike, or on public transport.
Parking
Find out what parking is available on campus and what rules and regulations apply to parking on campus.
Wellington life
Find out more about what Wellington has to offer.
Sustainability
We are championing a sustainable future by fostering the leaders of tomorrow, delivering world class research and building a sustainable campus.
Adam Art Gallery
Contemporary art exhibitions that are open to all and free. Discover the University’s own gallery at the heart of the Kelburn Campus.
Pasifika Haos
Pasifika Haos is a place of belonging for all Pasifika students at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Venues, conferences, and alcohol events
Vic Venues is now operating under Campus Living. Campus Living are the main point of contact when hiring University facilities for events.
Te Huanui
Te Huanui will be Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s front door, connecting our campus to the city.
Victoria University Of Wellington Courses
We offer a range of programmes for anyone looking to study at university for the first time, further their studies and career, or retrain in a new industry.
Undergraduate degrees
Some of our undergraduate degrees are flexible, while others are quite specialised. Look at our study options and get to know how degrees are structured.
Postgraduate programmes
Choose from certificates, diplomas, Honours, Master’s, PhDs, and doctoral degrees—there’s a programme that’s right for you to advance your skills and knowledge.
Explore postgraduate subjects
Discover our wide range of specialist subjects for postgraduate study.
Course finder
Search our courses to find out the content, timings, fees, and teaching details of the courses you want to take for your programme.
Explore undergraduate subjects
With more than 100 undergraduate subjects available, browse our list to find subjects you enjoy and that match your career goals.
Study in Trimester 3
Explore new interests, expand your knowledge, or fast-track your qualification. Study in Trimester 3 at Victoria University of Wellington.
Limited entry
Some courses and qualifications have a limit on the number of students they can admit.
Short courses and non-degree programmes
Take courses for personal interest or professional development. There are also introductory courses and programmes to prepare students for degree-level study.
Victoria University Of Wellington Address
The information provided below are the Victoria University Of Wellington contacts details. You can call or locate us for all the information needed.
Emergency contacts
Internal: Extn 8888 Campus Emergency line.
External: 0800 842 8888 Campus Security Office.
If you wish to send an email message to any staff member at Victoria University of Wellington, the correct address format is: [email protected]
For general enquiries, email [email protected].
Telephone
Switchboard: If operator assistance is required, phone 0800 04 04 04,
or +64 4 472 1000.
Auto attendant: if an extension is known, phone +64 4 463 5233.
Postal address
[Name of person/department]
Victoria University of Wellington
PO Box 600
Wellington 6140
New Zealand
- A list of contact information and location details for each of our faculties and schools.
- Contact our Student Recruitment and Orientation or Wellington University International teams for advice on courses, admissions, and studying with us.
- Our Communications team is the key point of contact for all media enquiries.