The kayakers who got into trouble on Lake Tekapo, where two died, were visiting from Melbourne's Monash University, the university has confirmed.
Police have not yet named the victims or nationalities involved.
Two people died and nine were treated for hypothermia after a strong easterly wind picked up and left the group floundering on the South Island lake on Friday.
A Monash University spokesman confirmed to NZ Newswire the group was from Melbourne.
"The Monash University community is deeply saddened at this news and Monash is liaising directly with the students and officials here in Australia and in New Zealand, to provide support," a statement said.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"Our deepest sympathies are extended to the families, friends and colleagues during this tragic time."
A university representative has been sent to New Zealand.
The group was made up of British and Americans, according to local media reports.
Britain's Foreign Office confirmed one of the dead was British.
"We are providing support to the family and are in contact with the New Zealand authorities," it said in a statement.
Local search and rescue, voluntary firemen and the Mckenzie Lake Coast Guard, aided by a helicopter rushed to the lake to rescue the group.
"Some of them made it to an unoccupied island. Smoke was seen from the island that may have raised the alarm," police told ne News.
All the survivors suffered hypothermia.
Three, in their 20s, were taken to Timaru Hospital for treatment. They were expected to be discharged on Saturday, a spokeswoman told NZ Newswire.
The kayaking company has been named as AquaNorts, but could not be contacted for comment.
Police are investigating and have referred the matter to the coroner.
