Search

Showing 10 of 7355 results

• ENZ Chair optimistic for the future of international education sector

  The New Zealand international education sector should be optimistic about its future. 

  This was the message the Chair of Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ), Tracey Bridges, delivered to members of the sector attending the New Zealand International Education Conference Ki Tua in Christchurch (New Zealand) today. 

  The conference is the first in-person gathering of the sector since 2019 and attracted more than 590 guests and sector representatives. 

  Speaking at the opening plenary session of the conference, Ms Bridges said that just as the sector had much to celebrate in the shared endeavours and achievements of the past 30 years, there was also cause for optimism looking forward. 

  “I’m optimistic about the future of this sector, and the contribution it can make to all the people in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and beyond.” 

  Ms Bridges said this optimism was underpinned by the diversity and strength of the sector that spans schools, polytechnic institutions through Te Pūkenga, universities, private training establishments (PTEs), English language schools, Education products and services, and Wanaga. 

  Another key strength was the industry’s ability to adapt. 

  “In early 2020 our world changed forever, and in the three and a half years since, we have all had to – time and time again – prove our ability to adapt.  

  “I want to acknowledge the work that everyone has done in recent years, and to acknowledge the fact that you continue to adapt to meet these challenges. 

  “Your presence here today is testimony to your resilience and commitment to ongoing change. So I’m optimistic not because everything will now return to the old normal, but because I know that together we will find ways to forge a new approach that’s right for the time we are in: we will continue to seek our ‘pae tawhiti’(distant horizon)”.   

  Ms Bridges said ENZ had also refocused and confirmed its approach for the coming 12 months by concentrating on Focus Area One of the refreshed 2022 New Zealand International Education Strategy, “helping providers of international education build back their bases through inbound student mobility growth”. 

  While prioritising its resources and targeting its efforts, ENZ had not lost sight of the need to build long term resilience and stability, and had a number of initiatives in this area, consistent with Focus Area Two.  This had involved hosting a visit earlier in August of Professor Martin Bean, and work through the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund (CRRF) to explore the diversification of products, services and modes of delivery.  

  ENZ was also looking forward to working alongside Ōtautahi, Christchurch to bring the ICEF Australia New Zealand Agent Conference to Christchurch in April next year. 

  Ms Bridges also acknowledged the importance of leveraging diplomatic engagement and Ministerial travel to enhance New Zealand’s reputation as a partner for international education.  

  “The value of these initiatives is shown in the response to recent promotional trips to India, the US and Canada. More recently, education was a significant part of the Prime Minister’s visit to China where its importance as part of our bilateral relationship was mentioned in almost every major engagement.” 

  This had continued with the conference welcoming the People’s Republic of China as the Country of Honour, with the Minister for Education, His Excellency, Huai Jinpeng joining the conference as a keynote speaker on Friday. 

  A full transcript of the speech can be found here.

   

  For further information:  

  Justin Barnett | Director of Communications, Education New Zealand   

  justin.barnett@enz.govt.nz  

    +64 21 875 132  

    

  Notes to Editors:  

  About Education New Zealand (ENZ) https://www.enz.govt.nz/   

  Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency responsible for taking New Zealand’s education experiences to the world. ENZ promotes a New Zealand education as one that teaches students to be critical thinkers, problem solvers and lifelong learners, which will help them succeed in their future careers and create a positive impact on the world.   

  With approximately 100 staff in 18 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector including schools, English language providers, Private Training Establishments, Te Pūkenga (Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics), universities; and internationally with NZ Inc agencies, Government agencies and education providers to encourage sustainable growth and identify opportunities.     

• Photo 2 2

• resize pic v3

• Thai delegation visits New Zealand

  In light of the Thai government’s new plan to develop a skilled workforce to meet industry demand, ENZ saw an opportunity to connect RMUT with New Zealand providers.

   

  RMUT has a network of 40 campuses across Thailand, which are most similar to New Zealand ITPs. RMUT has a particular interest in customised, short-course training in New Zealand, and would like to see the establishment of an English language centre in Thailand.

   

  The visit showcased New Zealand’s focus on practical skills and innovation in the classroom, with ENZ setting up meetings with Auckland University of Technology, Unitec, Air New Zealand Aviation Institute, Wintec, Wellington Institute of Technology, Whitireia Institute of Technology, Massey University, Otago Polytechnic and the University of Otago Language Centre.

   

  Jaruwan Pongjaruwat, ENZ Programme Manager – Thailand, said the visit created a comprehensive understanding of New Zealand’s education system and fields of expertise.

   

  “The RMUT group especially enjoyed the unique cultural experience and appreciated the welcoming and friendly New Zealand people.

   

  “We visited some classrooms and they were able to see first-hand the practical learning environment.”

   

  The visit is already showing positive results, with one RMUT president inviting selected New Zealand institutions to visit Thailand for further discussions.

   

  

  The group of RMUT representatives at Air New Zealand Aviation Institute

   

   

   

• Letter from the CE: Impact of immigration changes

  The announcements included some changes to residency requirements which have generated a lot of commentary including on the impact for international education – see Radio New Zealand, New Zealand Herald, Stuff, Newsroom.

  The changes to residence under the Skilled Migrant category come into effect in August 2017. (Please note that the proposals for temporary migrant work settings are going out for consultation before a final decision is made.)

  It is expected that the Skilled Migrant residency changes will have a short-term impact on international student recruitment, particularly for providers targeting students at below-degree-level qualifications, who are more likely to be affected by the changes.

  The recent announcements do send a clear signal that permanent residence after three years of post-study work experience is not always a realistic expectation.

  The quality education experience itself should be the prime driver for considering New Zealand as a study destination.

  The new residence criteria includes remuneration thresholds. It is worth noting that, in the recently published Moving Places study by the Ministry of Education, more than half of the international students with postgraduate qualifications earned above the proposed threshold three years after completing their study.

  In the longer term, we hope that the new remuneration thresholds will incentivise students to study in fields of study more closely aligned to skill shortages, thereby increasing the value for New Zealand as well as supporting better labour market outcomes.

  Regulatory settings are under constant review, and Education New Zealand will continue to work closely with our partners across government in all of these areas.

  Grant McPherson

  Chief Executive, Education New Zealand

   

   

• Update from Immigration New Zealand

  Immigration New Zealand is introducing a new Short Term Graduate Work Visa and extending Post Study Work Visa eligibility to better align graduate pathways with New Zealand’s skills needs. 

  These changes will support growth in international education, while ensuring graduates are well placed to move into work that meets New Zealand’s skills needs.  

  The changes include a new Short Term Graduate Work Visa and an extension of Post Study Work Visa eligibility to Graduate Diplomas at NZQCF level 7. The graduate must also hold a bachelor’s degree (completed in New Zealand or overseas). 

  These changes aim to attract and retain international graduates with valuable skills, while maintaining education quality and protecting New Zealand’s international reputation as a great place to live and work. 

  New Short Term Graduate Work Visa 

  Eligible international graduates who completed study in New Zealand will be able to apply for the new Short Term Graduate Work Visa from late 2026. 

  This visa provides up to six months of open work rights, allowing time to look for work and, where appropriate, transition to an Accredited Employer Work Visa. 

  Post Study Work Visa eligibility extending 

  From late 2026, eligibility for a Post Study Work Visa will be extended to graduates who: 

  • have completed a Graduate Diploma at NZQCF level 7 
  • studied fulltime in New Zealand for the full duration of the qualification 
  • have been enrolled in that qualification for the full duration (cross crediting or recognition of prior learning is not eligible) 
  • hold a bachelor's degree, completed in New Zealand or overseas (with no time limit on when it was awarded). 

  For more information and eligibility criteria for these visas, visit this link.

• Agent Lab

• Teaching the world about New Zealand

  To better market New Zealand as a study destination, we’ve added hundreds of high-resolution images, videos, infographics and case studies to the New Zealand Story toolkit.  

  What is the New Zealand story?

  New Zealand Story is an initiative that brings together expertise from the private sector and Government agencies, including NZTE, Tourism New Zealand, Education New Zealand (ENZ) and more. Our purpose is to help define the things that make us unique as a country and give us a framework to share our New Zealand story with the world. Our toolkit is a big part of this. The New Zealand Story business toolkit resources are consistent with and support the resources available to you in ENZ’s Brand Lab.  

  How the toolkit can help

  When people choose to study overseas, they leave behind their friends, their family and their comfort zone. So when deciding on a place to go, they’ll want somewhere that’s not only tolerant of foreigners, but welcoming and friendly. The toolkit is packed with resources that highlight our open hearts and open minds.

  Chances are they’ll also be keen to experience a new culture and way of life. There’s nowhere quite like New Zealand for a unique cultural experience, and again, the toolkit has a huge range of images, videos and case studies that showcase our open spaces and can connect your brand with our country’s great lifestyle and rich culture.

  Lastly, it’s important to remember that they’re coming to study. New Zealand is world-class in many areas, including sports, tourism and education. Combine that with our reputation for creativity, innovation and ingenuity and we really are an ideal destination for those looking to kick start their career. Our toolkit features more than just pretty landscapes – it’s also packed with resources that highlight our expertise in these areas.  

  Craft your own New Zealand story

  Stories bring ideas to life in a way that makes them both memorable and shareable. And whether you’re a school, a tertiary institution or another education provider altogether, that’s exactly what you need to stand out from the crowd. The toolkit can help you tell your story in an engaging and compelling way.  

  Go check it out

  Register at nzstory.govt.nz for free access to all of the assets in our toolkit. You can also subscribe to the New Zealand Story newsletter to keep up-to-date with new content, research and case studies.

• International education drives NZ$4.5 billion economic boost as sector grows with strong public support

  New Zealand’s international education sector continues its steady and balanced growth, contributing more than NZ$4.52 billion annually to the economy and enjoying enduring public support for international students. 

  According to latest Stats NZ data, education-related travel exports climbed to $4.52 billion for the year ended September 2025, up from $3.6 billion in the year ended December 2024. International education now ranks among New Zealand’s top 10 exports and now contributes 13.6% of the country’s total services exports. 

  From January to August 2025, 83,535 international students enrolled with New Zealand education providers, a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2024, and already surpassing last year’s full-year total.  

  Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) Chief Executive Amanda Malu said the figures confirm New Zealand’s position as a trusted and attractive destination for international learners. 

  “New Zealand is moving higher up the ladder of top choices of study destinations as students look for quality education in a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment. Our steady growth shows the sector is resilient and competitive as we move at pace to deliver on the International Education Going for Growth Plan,” Malu said. 

  “We are not chasing numbers at any cost, we are focused on sustainable, balanced growth that benefits our regions, strengthens our economy, and adds value to our communities.” 

  Quality Tertiary Institutions (QTI) Chair and New Zealand Skills and Education Group Founder, Brijesh Sethi, said he was very pleased to see international student enrolments increase for private training establishments (PTEs) in New Zealand. 

  “This growth is not only an academic success story but also an economic one.  

  “International students contribute substantially to local communities and the national economy, reinforcing the international education sector’s role as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s global engagement strategy.  

  “While there are some concerns regarding the PTE application numbers for 2025, enrolment increases are encouraging,” Sethi said. 

  Public support remains strong 

  Alongside growth in international student enrolments, ENZ’s latest 2025 Public Perceptions of International Education Survey shows 77% of New Zealanders want to see the same or more international students in the country up slightly on last year’s 75%. 

  By comparison, only just over 50% of Australians polled in 2025 support maintaining or increasing international student numbers, and at less than 50% of those in the UK polled in 2023 were in favour of students coming to research or study at UK universities.  

  Commenting on the survey, Malu said the survey shows international education is a key economic growth driver that also brings diverse perspectives through visiting students.  

  “It’s absolutely fantastic to see New Zealanders continue to back international students so strongly year after year,” Malu said.   

  Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Waikato, Alister Jones, said they were excited about the increasing number of international students at the university. 

  “This represents the significant work undertaken by our International and Engagement Office, both onshore and offshore.  

  “Our international students bring diversity to our Hamilton and Tauranga campuses, as well as having a positive impact on the wider communities and businesses.  

  “For the students who choose to make New Zealand their home upon completing their studies, it is a really good outcome for New Zealand society as a whole,” Jones said.  

  Beyond the economic benefits, New Zealanders also continue to appreciate the broad range of cultural and social benefits that international students bring to the country.   

  81% agree international students contribute to local communities, and 79% say they provide invaluable global connections and research links. 

  “International education is not just an economic driver, it’s a bridge to the world.  

  “New Zealanders clearly value the cultural and social benefits international students bring, and that support is vital as we look to the future,” Malu said. 

  Looking ahead 

  ENZ’s International Education Going for Growth Plan aims to double the sector’s export value to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034, while maintaining public support for international education. 

  “International education is a key contributor to the Government’s Going for Growth Plan to grow the New Zealand economy. This growth reflects the sector’s resilience and its critical role in our economic future.” 

  “Our focus is on sustainable, balanced growth, diversifying markets, strengthening vocational pathways, and ensuring students have a positive experience.  

  “We want New Zealand to remain among the top choices globally, not just for education quality but for the values we stand for,” Malu said. 

  Read more:  

  International student enrolments 2013-2025

  2025 New Zealanders’ Perceptions of International Education Survey | ENZ IntelliLab

  For further information: 

  Sai Raje | Senior Communications Advisor, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao 
  sai.raje@enz.govt.nz | +64 21 479 649 

  
  About Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao 

  Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency dedicated to helping New Zealand realise the social, cultural, and economic benefits of international education. Our role is to promote New Zealand as a high-quality education destination offering excellent education and student experiences.

  With approximately 85 staff in 13 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector which includes schools, English language providers, Private Training Establishments, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology Te Pūkenga), and universities.

  Internationally, we work with a range of education stakeholders, including government agencies and education providers to identify and encourage sustainable growth opportunities for New Zealand’s education sector.

• Amanda Malu.jpg resize