Maryanne Tupou, who is a law student at the University of Canterbury is one of four tertiary students and staff that spoke to RNZ News about racism they have experienced in New Zealand.
Ms Tupou, who moved to Christchurch in 2014, says she has been called the n-word on the streets of Christchurch and other derogatory remarks about her race.
She said she also experienced racism for being a Polynesian at a private all girls school.
Ms Tupou said during her time at the private school, people often questioned her belonging at the school because of her darker skin.