The content in this publication reflects information and events from the year 2023. Please note that some images included have been sourced from both 2022 and 2023. While we strive to provide accurate and timely content, this publication may not represent the most current information or developments as of 2024. For the latest updates, please refer to our official Instagram page.
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thai student’s association
Discover the Thai Students Association (TSA) at the University of Auckland: A Place for Cultural Connection and Personal Growth
If you’ve ever been curious about Thai culture, or if you’re looking for a community where you can connect with others, learn, and grow, the Thai Students Association (TSA) at the University of Auckland might be just what you’re looking for. At TSA, we create an inclusive space where students from all backgrounds can come together, celebrate cultural diversity, and explore the richness of Thailand’s traditions.
Why TSA?
The Thai Students Association isn’t just about Thai culture — it’s about building meaningful connections and expanding your horizons. We bring together people from all walks of life, whether you’re Thai, have ties to Thailand, or simply want to discover more about this fascinating culture.
What We Do:
TSA is a place where cultural exchange thrives. We host a wide variety of events, from traditional festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong to more informal social gatherings, cultural showcases, cooking workshops, and language exchanges. These events offer a chance to experience Thailand’s unique arts, food, and customs first-hand, and we welcome everyone, whether you’re already familiar with Thai traditions or just starting to explore.
We believe that diversity enriches all of us, and we’re proud to be a space where everyone’s voice and perspective is valued. When you join TSA, you’re not just learning about Thai culture — you’re contributing to a diverse community that celebrates the beauty of different traditions, backgrounds, and experiences.
A Welcoming Community for All
TSA isn’t just for Thai students. It’s for anyone interested in Thai culture, anyone who wants to meet new people, and anyone who values inclusivity. Whether you’re looking to expand your global perspective or simply find a group of friends who share your interests, TSA is a place where you’ll feel at home. The friendships you’ll build here are grounded in shared experiences, mutual respect, and a commitment to learning from each other.
And it’s not just about cultural events — TSA also offers opportunities for personal growth. From leadership roles in organizing events to collaborating with other student organizations, being involved with TSA can help you develop valuable skills, broaden your network, and enhance your university experience in ways that go beyond academics.
What Can You Gain?
Cultural Learning: Gain a deeper understanding of Thai language, traditions, and customs, and have fun while doing it! Connections: Meet people who share your interests, build lasting friendships, and be part of a community that supports each other.
Personal Growth: Take on leadership roles, contribute to event planning, and get involved in projects that help you develop new skills and make a real impact.
Inclusive Environment: Whether you’re Thai or not, TSA is a space where your presence and input matter. It’s about celebrating diversity and learning from one another.
How to Get Involved:
Getting involved with TSA is simple. Attend one of our upcoming events or meetings, follow us on social media to stay in the loop, or reach out if you’re interested in becoming more active in organizing events. Whether you’re looking to join us for one event or become a full member, you’ll find a warm welcome.
At TSA, we believe that understanding and celebrating cultural diversity enriches our lives. If you’re interested in exploring Thai culture, making new friends, or being part of a community that values connection and inclusivity, we’d love to have you with us.
Join TSA today, and become part of a community that celebrates cultural exchange, friendship, and growth — here at the University of Auckland.
sem 1 & 2
Every semester, the Club Expo provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the wide variety of student organizations on campus. At TSA’s booth, we invite both new and returning students to come learn more about our association, our mission, and the exciting events and opportunities we offer. Whether you’re a Thai student looking for a supportive community or simply someone curious about Thai culture, TSA is a place for everyone to connect, grow, and celebrate.
Join Us at TSA’s Club Expo Booth and Be Part of Something Special!
Whether you’re here to reconnect with your Thai roots, make new friends, or simply learn about another culture, TSA welcomes you to join our vibrant and diverse community. We can’t wait to meet you at the Club Expo and share everything that makes TSA such a unique and exciting with many benefits to offer, TSA is more than just an organization—it’s a place where you can grow, connect, and make the most of your university experience. Whether you’re looking to expand your cultural knowledge, develop new skills, or meet new friends, TSA is the community for you.
What’s Happening at the TSA Booth?
At the TSA Club Expo, visitors can expect a lively, engaging experience as we showcase all that our association has to offer. Here’s a snapshot of what you can find:
1. Meet the Exec Team:
Our friendly and approachable executive team will be on hand to greet visitors, answer questions, and share their experiences with TSA. Whether you’re curious about the leadership opportunities within the club or want to learn more about our upcoming events, our team is excited to chat with you and help you find your place within TSA.
2. Sign Up for Membership:
Interested in becoming a member of TSA? At the Club Expo, you can sign up to join our community and stay updated on all the exciting events, workshops, and programs we host throughout the year. Membership is open to all students, regardless of nationality—whether you’re from Thailand or simply interested in learning more about Thai culture, we welcome you with open arms.
3. Explore Our Events and Activities:
TSA organizes a wide range of events throughout the year, from cultural celebrations like Songkran and Thai Night, to community-building activities like Sports Day and Study Breaks. Stop by our booth to get a preview of what’s coming up in 2025, and learn how you can get involved in planning, volunteering, or participating in these exciting events.
4. Discover Our Cultural Workshops and Programs:
We offer a variety of cultural and language initiatives, including Thai language workshops, cooking classes, and cultural exhibitions. Whether you’re interested in learning a few basic phrases in Thai, trying your hand at making Thai, or exploring Thai traditions through interactive sessions, TSA provides opportunities to engage with the culture in fun and meaningful ways.
5. Enter the Raffle and Win Prizes!
To make your visit to the TSA booth even more exciting, we’ll be holding a raffle with fantastic prizes like gift cards, event tickets, and Thai-themed goodies. All you need to do is sign up for membership or drop by to enter the draw!
6. Meet Other Members and Make New Friends
One of the best things about TSA is our strong sense of community. When you visit the booth, you’ll have the opportunity to meet other students who are part of TSA. Whether you’re looking to make new friends, join a committee, or find study buddies, the booth is a great place to get to know fellow students and start building connections.
Scavenger hunt
This year, one of our most exciting events was the Scavenger Hunt! Held on Thursday, March 14th, the event invited both TSA members and non-members to embark on an epic journey through campus, exploring hidden clues, conquering mini-games, and uncovering secrets along the way.
Teams of eager explorers were challenged to sharpen their wits, solve puzzles, and work together to navigate the adventure. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as participants competed for the top spots, all while making new friends and forging unforgettable bonds.
At the end of the hunt, everyone gathered to enjoy free pizza and drinks, with a celebratory atmosphere as we announced the winners. Top 2 teams were awarded exciting prizes for their impressive problemsolving skills and teamwork.
The event was open to everyone, regardless of whether they were TSA members or not, and proved to be a fantastic opportunity for students from all backgrounds to come together, have fun, and experience the welcoming TSA community.
We were thrilled to see so many new faces at this event, reinforcing TSA’s commitment to being a club where students of all nationalities can connect, build friendships, and create lasting memories. TSA is for everyone—and this Scavenger Hunt was the perfect example of our inclusive spirit.
5. Take a group photo under the UOA sign at the main entrance on Symonds Street.(101) (+1pts)
4. Take a photo in front of the School of Music (most aesthetic photo wins) (+5pts)
14. Take a photo pretending to be Studying in Kate Edger (+1pts)
13. Find the conference centre and take a photo with it (+3pts)
BbQ Fundraiser
Savor the Flavors, Support the Cause
Cause
One of the highlights of the year was the TSA BBQ Fundraiser held on Wednesday, March 20th. Inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Thailand, we brought the delicious essence of Thai BBQ to the University of Auckland campus, serving up tasty treats and raising funds for the club at the same time.
Our BBQ offerings featured Moo Ping, marinated Thai-style pork skewers, cooked to perfection and served with flavorful sauces. Alongside the skewers, we offered refreshing Thai Milk Tea and other drinks, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the BBQ.
The event was a huge hit with students, whether they were food lovers or just passing by. With a variety of food options and drinks at great prices, there was something for everyone. Our special promotion offered a deal of 3 skewers and one drink for just $10, making it easy for students to enjoy the delicious flavors of Thailand while supporting the TSA.
Both members and non-members were welcome to join, and many took the opportunity to sign up for TSA on the spot, gaining access to a full year of TSA membership along with a complimentary drink.
Held in front of the General Library Building, the BBQ was a fantastic way for students to take a break, enjoy some authentic Thai food, and connect with new friends. The event not only served as a tasty fundraiser but also helped bring the community together, making it one of TSA’s most memorable and successful events of the year.
We’re grateful to everyone who came out to support our cause and to everyone who contributed to making the event a success. This BBQ fundraiser was a perfect example of how TSA combines food, culture, and community for a great cause!
songkran supersplash
What is Songkran?
Songkran is Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, celebrated annually from April 13th to 15th. The holiday marks the start of the Thai lunar calendar and is a time for families to come together, honor their elders, and participate in rituals that symbolize purification and renewal.
At the heart of Songkran is the famous water festival. During this time, people all across Thailand engage in water fights, splashing each other in the streets with water guns, buckets, and hoses. This water play has deep cultural significance: it is believed that the water cleanses bad luck and misfortune from the past year, while welcoming in the new year with good fortune and fresh beginnings.
In addition to water fights, Songkran is a time for more traditional activities. Many people visit temples to offer prayers and make merit, and it is common for families to gather to pay respects to elders by gently pouring water over their hands as a symbol of respect and good wishes for the year ahead.
Throughout the festival, you’ll find vibrant street parades, traditional dances, and performances that showcase Thai culture. It’s a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration, as well as an opportunity for reflection and renewal as people embrace the spirit of fresh starts.
Whether it’s the fun-filled water fights, the spiritual traditions, or simply spending time with family and friends, Songkran is an event that brings out the best of Thai culture and its emphasis on community, respect, and celebration of life.
While we were all excited for TSA’s Songkran Super Splash in 2024, circumstances led to the cancellation of this year’s event. Although it’s disappointing not to gather for another round of water fights and festivities, we want to take a moment to look back on the amazing 2023 Songkran Super Splash, which set the bar for what was sure to be another unforgettable event.
Held at Orakei Domain on a beautiful sunny day in April, last year’s Songkran Super Splash brought together both TSA members and newcomers for an afternoon of water fights, traditional Thai games, and plenty of fun in the sun. The event captured the lively spirit of Songkran, the Thai New Year, celebrated with joy, renewal, and, of course, lots of water!
The day kicked off with teams assembling for a variety of fun and competitive games, from water balloon tosses to relay races. The air was filled with excitement as participants geared up to face off in the most anticipated part of the event—the epic water fight. Armed with water pistols, squirt guns, and buckets, everyone dove into the friendly battle, soaking each other in a true celebration of Songkran. The friendly rivalry and laughter filled the air, and it didn’t take long for everyone to get drenched and fully embrace
Along with the water fights, participants faced off in field challenges designed to test their teamwork and creativity. Whether it was tug-ofwar or obstacle courses, there was no shortage of action. The winners of each event were awarded fantastic prizes, with teams earning extra recognition for their impressive skills and
Throughout the day, the fun wasn’t just about the games—it was about the connections made. Whether you were bonding with old friends or meeting new faces, Songkran Super Splash was the perfect way to experience the vibrant and inclusive spirit of TSA. Many students took the opportunity to join the TSA community, signing up for memberships and becoming part of our growing family.
Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, there was no shortage of delicious food and refreshing drinks to keep everyone energized. From Thai snacks to cold beverages, the food added an extra touch of authenticity to the celebration and kept everyone cool as they soaked up the sunshine.
Looking back, Songkran Super Splash 2023 was one of those events that perfectly captured the heart of TSA—fun, culture, and community. It was a day full of excitement, laughter, and the kind of memories that will last a lifetime. Although we won’t be able to recreate the magic this year, the spirit of Songkran lives on in the connections we made and the joy we shared.
Here’s to hoping we’ll be back next year, ready to make even more unforgettable memories together!
tsa movie night: Phi Mak Phra Khanong
On Tuesday, April 30th, TSA hosted a fun-filled Movie Night screening of the Thai horror-comedy Pee Mak, and it was a hit! The evening started at 6:30 PM in the Clock Tower (105-018), where both members and non-members gathered for a laid-back night of laughs, scares, and great company.
As the movie began, the crowd settled in, ready for the perfect mix of spooky thrills and comedic moments. Pee Mak—a story about love, friendship, and supernatural twists—had everyone laughing and gasping at the same time. It was the ideal choice for a fun, casual movie night that brought together both fans of Thai cinema and those looking for something new.
Throughout the evening, attendees snacked on delicious food, enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, and made new connections within the TSA community. With everyone settled into their coziest outfits, it was the perfect environment to relax, enjoy the movie, and have a great time.
Thanks to all who joined us for the event, and a special thanks to those who signed up for TSA membership at the event! We hope everyone enjoyed the night, and we look forward to seeing you
The film was a major commercial success upon its release and became Thailand’s highestgrossing film of all time.
TSA x VAUSA Escape Room
TSA and VAUSA teamed up for an unforgettable Escape Room Challenge, bringing together students for an afternoon of mind-bending puzzles, teamwork, and adrenaline-pumping excitement. Held at UoA Clock tower, the event offered a series of themed escape rooms, each filled with its own unique challenges that tested both brains and brawn.
Teams of eager participants gathered, ready to tackle the puzzles, crack the codes, and solve the mysteries in a race against the clock. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as groups worked together to decipher clues, unlock hidden secrets, and navigate through tricky scenarios. From locked doors to intricate riddles, each room provided a fresh test of teamwork and problem-solving skills.
The event wasn’t just about escaping the rooms; it was about building connections and strengthening bonds within the TSA community. Whether it was a close call with the countdown or moments of pure triumph, the challenge brought everyone closer together, creating unforgettable memories.
A huge thanks to everyone who participated and made this event a success, and to VAUSA for collaborating with us on such an exciting and unique experience. We look forward to more collaborations and challenges in the future!
As teams entered the Escape Room venue, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. The space was dimly lit, with each room designed to immerse participants in a different world. The carefully crafted themes set the stage for the challenge. The sound of ticking clocks, faint music, and subtle effects added to the suspense, reminding everyone that time was running out.
The air was charged with a sense of urgency as teams gathered around their first clues. The clock was ticking, and the pressure was on. Every twist and turn in the room brought new surprises—locked boxes, hidden compartments, cryptic messages, and puzzling symbols—each more intricate than the last. The rooms were designed not only to challenge intellect but also to test teamwork. The thrill of solving a tricky puzzle or unlocking a hidden compartment brought out cheers, high-fives, and moments of pure joy.
There was a palpable feeling of collaboration as team members worked together, shouting out ideas, pointing out clues, and working in sync to unravel each mystery. At times, the tension was almost tangible— especially when the clock was winding down and the escape seemed just out of reach. But with each breakthrough, the energy in the room would surge, with a renewed sense of determination pushing teams forward.
The challenge was as much about communication and strategy as it was about solving puzzles. The sense of accomplishment that came with each successfully completed task kept everyone motivated, fueling the collective effort to reach the final goal.
When teams finally cracked the final code or unlocked the last door, the room erupted in celebration—cheers and laughter filled the air as everyone realized they’d made it. Whether they escaped or not, the sense of camaraderie and shared achievement was what made the experience unforgettable.
The feeling of teamwork, the adrenaline rush of racing against the clock, and the thrill of solving complex puzzles made this event an exhilarating and memorable experience for everyone involved.
Muay Thai TSA x AUMT
On Sunday, July 28th, the highly anticipated AUMT x TSA Muay Thai Event took place at Hawks Nest Gym, bringing together students for an action-packed afternoon of Muay Thai training, fitness, and fun. Whether you were an experienced fighter or completely new to Muay Thai, this event had something for everyone!
Starting at 2:00 PM, the event was filled with energy and excitement. Participants were guided through a series of Muay Thai techniques, from basic striking to footwork, all taught by the expert trainers from AUMT (Auckland University Muay Thai). The atmosphere was welcoming and inclusive, ensuring that all attendees felt comfortable no matter their skill level.
In addition to the training, attendees had the chance to engage in reflex and strategy games, adding a fun twist to the event and giving everyone a chance to test their quick thinking and coordination. The combination of learning and playful competition made for a memorable experience for all.
To keep everyone energized, food and drinks were provided, giving participants a chance to relax, refuel, and connect with each other after the intense training. Whether bonding over snacks or chatting about techniques, it was a great opportunity to meet new people and make lasting connections.
A huge thank you to AUMT for partnering with TSA to bring this fantastic event to life. It was the perfect way to kick off semester 2, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
A Big Thank You to Hawks Nest Gym!
A huge shoutout to Hawks Nest Gym for generously providing the perfect space for our AUMT x TSA Muay Thai Event! The gym’s spacious, fully-equipped facilities created the ideal environment for our training sessions, reflex games, and all the action-packed fun that went down on July 28th.
With its top-notch equipment and welcoming atmosphere, Hawks Nest Gym made sure every participant had the space and support needed to learn, grow, and challenge themselves. Whether you were throwing your first punch or perfecting your technique, the gym was the perfect place for all skill levels to come together and push their limits.
We couldn’t have asked for a better venue to kick off semester 2. If you’re looking for a place to train, challenge yourself, or just get fit, Hawks Nest Gym is definitely the place to be. Make sure to check them out for all your fitness and Muay Thai needs!
On 15th August, TSA and FSA teamed up for an exciting Art Collaboration Event, where creativity, culture, and friendly competition came together in celebration of two vibrant mask festivals: Thailand’s Phi Ta Khon and the Philippines’ MassKara. This event was all about exploring the artistic beauty behind these iconic festivals through a mini canvas painting competition.
The evening’s theme centered on the rich cultural traditions of Phi Ta Khon and MassKara, two mask festivals that are as colorful as they are meaningful. Phi Ta Khon, a unique Thai festival, is known for its elaborate, spirit-representing masks and lively processions, while MassKara is celebrated in the Philippines for its joyful, smiling masks that symbolize resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Participants were invited to bring the spirit of these festivals to life by painting their interpretations of the masks and themes on mini canvases. Whether participants were familiar with the festivals or learning about them for the first time, the event was a fun opportunity to express creativity, experiment with colors, and get inspired by the cultural significance behind each mask.
The atmosphere was full of energy, with students chatting, sharing ideas, and immersing themselves in the creative process. Alongside the painting, attendees enjoyed a selection of snacks and drinks, fueling both creativity and conversation.
As the paintings came together, everyone eagerly awaited the opportunity to win exciting prizes for the best representations of Phi Ta Khon and MassKara. The event was a fantastic way to connect with others, celebrate both Thai and Filipino culture, and showcase artistic talents in a friendly and supportive environment.
We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who participated and made this cultural and artistic collaboration such a success. A special thanks to FSA for partnering with us, and we look forward to more creative events in the future!
study with tsa
On 19th August, TSA hosted another successful Study with TSA session, offering students the perfect environment to focus, get work done, and still have fun in the company of others. Whether you were tackling assignments, revising for exams, or simply catching up on readings, this event was designed to help you stay motivated and productive.
Held at Art Building, the event provided a quiet yet social atmosphere, perfect for those looking to study in a focused space while also connecting with fellow students. Participants had plenty of room to spread out, organize their materials, and dive into their work—without feeling isolated. For those moments when a break was needed, there were lots of opportunities for casual chats and coffee breaks, which helped keep everyone refreshed and energized.
To keep everyone fueled throughout the study session, complimentary food and drinks were provided, including snacks, coffee, tea, and other refreshments. This made it easy to stay focused without needing to leave the space to grab a bite. Whether you needed a quick energy boost or a moment to relax and chat with friends, the food and drinks added a welcoming touch to the event.
By the end of the session, many attendees were not only more prepared for their academic challenges but also grateful for the chance to study in such a supportive environment. The event was a great reminder of how important it is to connect with others, share tips, and stay motivated—especially when the semester gets busy.
Thank you to everyone who attended, and we look forward to hosting more study sessions like this in the future!
sport day
On Saturday, 14th September, TSA hosted an exhilarating Sports Day that brought students together for an afternoon of friendly competition and team spirit. The event offered a great mix of traditional Thai games and popular sports, making it the perfect way to take a break from uni stress and get active with friends.
Held at the UoA Sports Centre, the event kicked off with a variety of exciting activities, including Tug-of-War, Futsal, Volleyball, and even a fun round of Chairball! Whether you were a seasoned athlete or just in it for the fun, there was something for everyone. Teams formed quickly, and the atmosphere was buzzing with energy, laughter, and plenty of friendly banter.
In true TSA spirit, we also embraced some traditional Thai games, adding a unique cultural twist to the day’s events. Students had the opportunity to test their strength, strategy, and coordination, all while competing for exciting prizes!
The afternoon wasn’t just about competition— it was a chance to connect with new people, challenge yourself, and enjoy some lighthearted fun with old friends. As teams battled it out on the field, the atmosphere was full of positive energy and good vibes, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
We also want to thank all the participants for their enthusiasm and teamwork, and we hope to see everyone at our next event. Stay tuned for more exciting TSA activities!
board game night
On Tuesday, 24th September, TSA hosted an unforgettable Mystery Game Night at Underground Shad’s Bar. The event offered a fantastic mix of strategy, fun, and intrigue, with two exciting activities designed to engage all attendees.
Activity 1: Classic Game Challenge
The evening began with a selection of classic games, where participants showcased their skills in strategy, teamwork, and luck. From card games that tested players’ ability to bluff and strategize, to competitive board games requiring careful planning and quick thinking, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and friendly competition. Whether participants were forming alliances, outwitting each other, or simply enjoying a fun game, the variety of games ensured that everyone found something to enjoy.
Activity 2: Murder Mystery Game
As the evening progressed, the excitement shifted to the Murder Mystery game, where attendees turned into detectives, working in teams to solve a thrilling mystery. The challenge was to piece together clues, figure out the culprit, and uncover the truth before time ran out. With everyone on edge, the suspense and excitement were palpable, and the game became a highlight of the night.
Special Prizes for Themed Participants!
To make the evening even more memorable, participants were encouraged to come dressed in character. Whether they were donning detective hats or playing the role of a mysterious suspect, the best-dressed detective or suspect was awarded a special prize, making the event even more interactive and fun. The TSA execs also joined in, embracing the mystery theme and adding to the overall atmosphere.
annual general meeting
As exams loomed and the semester came to a close, TSA held its much-anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, 4th October to wrap up an incredible year and look ahead to the future. The evening was a celebration of the hard work, dedication, and fun moments that made the year so special.
Attendees were treated to a night filled with delicious food and drinks, as well as a lively atmosphere of music, laughter, and conversation. The TSA exec team shared highlights from the past year, including the many memorable events that brought our community together. From cultural celebrations to social activities, it was clear that TSA had fostered an amazing environment of inclusivity and friendship.
Looking forward to the future, the exec team also gave a sneak peek into the exciting plans for the upcoming year. New ideas, bigger events, and more opportunities to get involved were all on the horizon, ensuring that TSA will continue to be a vibrant community for students from all backgrounds.
The AGM was more than just a reflection; it was a moment to connect, relax, and celebrate everything that TSA had achieved together. As we looked back on the year with gratitude, we couldn’t help but feel excited for what’s to come in the next chapter of TSA’s journey.
A big thank you to all who joined us, and remember—
