We are one of 84 U3A groups in New Zealand, 18 of which are in Canterbury. Globally there are about 3000 U3As mainly in Europe, the UK, the US and Australasia. We are voluntary, non-profit, independent organisations which aim to provide low-cost educational opportunities in a social setting.
The first University of the Third Age (U3A) began in France in 1968 and spread rapidly around the world. From its original university-based concept, U3A has morphed into an environment where everyone can express opinions, socialise, learn new skills and be involved in specific activities of their choice.
U3A Network InformationOur U3A meets on the third Monday of the month at the Mt Pleasant Community Centre in Christchurch when we have a guest speaker. We have many different groups which meet at other times during the month including for example art appreciation, current affairs, cycling, botany, gardening, book discussion, scrabble, writing classes and many others. Every group has its own convenor and decides on its programme for the year. We have a general committee, elected annually, comprising the Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and seven other members.
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