WAI Wānaka Studentship Programme
Support the students who will shape the future of local freshwater
This programme brings together community, science, and education to drive meaningful change for freshwater health.
In partnership with the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Lincoln University – Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki, the programme provides paid summer internships and supports postgraduate research. Each studentship supports targeted projects that directly contribute to community-led freshwater action across the region.
By connecting students, researchers and local communities, we turn learning into real-world solutions – strengthening freshwater ecosystems while growing the next generation of environmental leaders.
Your support helps drive change where it matters most. Donate below or learn more about how you can get involved.
Donate today
Our goal in 2026 is to fund two summer studentships, requiring a total investment of $27,000. Any funds raised beyond this target will be invested in the programme’s future, helping support a post graduate student in 2027 and building a sustainable scholarship fund for years to come.
Your donation helps students turn knowledge into action while contributing to healthier lakes, rivers, and communities.
Donate today and invest in the future of freshwater.
Interested?
Read below to learn more about the types of studentship topics and areas of study that students could explore.
Register your interest to stay connected for updates on available studentships for the 2026 summer and beyond.
Student Stories
Former summer scholarship student Emma reflects on how her experience with WAI Wānaka shaped her skills, confidence and career direction – and why programmes like this matter for students, communities and freshwater research.
What studentships are available?
Each year, WAI Wānaka works with its university partners to determine the studentship opportunities that align with our freshwater research and community action programmes. Together, we develop project scopes and match students with opportunities that best fit their skills, interests, and areas of study. Examples of topics being considered for the 2026 programme are:
- Understanding the impacts of sediment in freshwater ecosystems
- Developing and testing of community science methods that build the capability and capacity of volunteers to contribute to environmental monitoring and research
- Exploring the use of electronic monitoring and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to enhance real-time environmental management and protection
- Investigating how widespread adoption of rainwater retention systems influences the quality and quantity of stormwater entering waterways
- As community needs and research priorities evolve, so will the studentship opportunities – ensuring students contribute to projects that deliver meaningful outcomes for freshwater and the communities that depend on it.
Kā mihi nui to our partners: University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka and Lincoln University – Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki for supporting this programme.
