Research Help
& Thesis Support
Starting postgraduate research can feel challenging without the right guidance. Having structured, practical support at each stage of the research process helps students build confidence, work efficiently, and produce high-quality academic work. The IPU Library offers support for all students throughout their research journey, providing guidance, tools, and resources to help you succeed at every stage of your research.
Aim for a research topic that is narrow, researchable, and achievable within the given timeframe. Start by thinking broadly to identify the problem, then narrow your focus to a specific context. Remember, you don't need to solve all the world's problems. One well-defined focus is more than enough for postgraduate research. Learn how to scope wisely HERE.
We highly recommend choosing a research topic that is New Zealand-based or uses New Zealand-relevant data.
Why is New Zealand-based data preferred?
1. Easier and faster access
New Zealand government data, policy documents, and reports are widely available to the public. Local organisations are also easier to contact and are more likely to respond.
2. Smoother ethics approval
Research designs typically involve lower risk, operate within a familiar legal and cultural context, and benefit from clear guidance from supervisors and ethics committees.
3. Realistic timelines
Data collection can begin promptly after ethics approval, with less risk of delays caused by overseas permissions or institutional barriers. This approach fits well within the 68-week master’s timeframe.
4. Stronger academic support
Supervisors are more familiar with New Zealand policy, society, and institutions. Library databases are rich in New Zealand-focused sources, and examiners value depth within a clearly defined context.
Find more information on New Zealand-based data resources HERE.
A strong research project is built on a critical and well-structured scholarly foundation. Use peer-reviewed literature strategically by refining your search techniques—such as selecting appropriate databases, using effective keywords, and applying citation correctly.
The IPU Library provides access to these resources through EBSCO.In addition, develop good practices in APA 7 referencing and citation management to ensure academic integrity and consistency throughout your work.
Learn more about literature review HERE.
The IPU New Zealand Library provides dedicated support for research students through academic workshops, mentoring, and group discussions, including the Thesis Day Out event. These initiatives are designed to guide students at every stage of their research journey.
Watch THIS space for updates.
POSITION
YOUR FIELD
within Contemporary International Studies
or Global Business Studies,
or International Relationship Studies.
Global Business, Innovation
& Sustainability
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Sustainable business practices
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Corporate social responsibility (CSR)
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Ethical supply chainsInnovation ecosystems
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International entrepreneurship
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Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in NZ
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Sustainable development goals (SDGs) implementation
Social Innovation, NGOs& Civil Society
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Role of NGOs in social change
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Community-based organisations and development
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Social enterprises and impact-driven organisations
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Volunteerism and civic engagement
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Faith-based and non-profit organisations
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Grassroots responses to social issues
Governance & Policy
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Public policy analysis (local, national, comparative)
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Climate governance and environmental policy
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Indigenous policy and Māori–Crown relations
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Social policy and community development
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Urban, regional, and local government studies
International Relations& Global Affairs
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Diplomacy and foreign policy
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Regional security (Asia-Pacific focus)
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International organisations (UN, ASEAN, APEC)
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Migration, refugees, and transnational mobility
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Peacebuilding and conflict resolution
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Human rights and international law (policy-focused)
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NZ–Asia relations
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Regional trade and economic cooperation
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Education and mobility in the Asia-Pacific
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Comparative governance (NZ vs Asia-Pacific states)
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Soft power and cultural exchange
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SCOPE WISELY
Narrow, researchable, and achievable
within timeframe.
DATA AVAILABILITY
Strong preference for New Zealand-based
or NZ-relevant data.
Sources for New Zealand-based Data
Stats NZ | https://www.stats.govt.nz
Available Data
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Informative statistic data.
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Migration and population statistics.
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Education, labour market, income, housing, and wellbeing data.
Data.govt.nz | https://www.data.govt.nz
Available Data
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Open datasets from multiple NZ government agencies.
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Environmental, transport, education, and social datasets.
Beehive.govt.nz | https://www.beehive.govt.nz/
Available Data
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The official data of the NZ government, such as speeches, media releases and more.
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New Zealand Legislation | https://www.legislation.govt.nz/
Available Data
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Authoritative source of New Zealand Acts and Bills.
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Local Government New Zealand | https://www.lgnz.co.nz
Available Data
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Local governance reports.
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Community wellbeing frameworks.
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Policy submissions and reviews.
Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment | https://www.mbie.govt.nz/
Available Data
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Policies and advice on NZ business, enterprise, sector and regional development
New Zealand Inland Revenue | https://www.ird.govt.nz/
Available Data
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Information on taxation in NZ for both employers and employees.
Commerce Commission New Zealand |https://www.comcom.govt.nz/
Available Data
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Promotion of New Zealand’s market competitiveness.
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Prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct by traders.
Ministry of Social Development | https://www.msd.govt.nz
Available Data
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Social wellbeing and community development reports.
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NGO and social sector data.
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Inequality and family wellbeing studies.
Ministry of Education | https://www.education.govt.nz
Available Data
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International education strategies.
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Tertiary education policies.
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Equity and inclusion frameworks.
Ministry for the Environment | https://environment.govt.nz
Available Data
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Climate change policy documents.
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National adaptation plans.
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Environmental monitoring reports.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade | https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en
Available Data
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Foreign policy statements.
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NZ–Asia and NZ–Pacific engagement reports.
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Trade and diplomacy briefings.
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Business NZ | https://businessnz.org.nz/
Available Data
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NZ business engaging with government officials
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Community groups
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International organisations such as OECD
New Zealand Companies Office | https://companies-register.companiesoffice.govt.nz/
Available Data
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NZ companies' information
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How to set up new companies
Te Puni Kōkiri | https://www.tpk.govt.nz/en
Available Data
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Māori development strategies
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Indigenous policy reports
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Crown–Māori relationship frameworks
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Thesis Day Out Schedule
Onsite Meet-up
First Tuesday of every month, starting 11.00 am.
Online Meet-up
Third Tuesday of every month, starting 05.30 pm.
Please check your student email for notifications.
Thesis & Postgraduate Research Support
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