Universities in New Zealand

A nation consisting of a north and south island located in the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is a popular destination for tourists thanks to its beautiful scenery and welcoming people. International students will find high quality education available at reasonable prices, and over 30,000 students are currently studying abroad in New Zealand.

The types of University

• Universities – All 8 universities in New Zealand are publicly funded, including Auckland University of Technology, the University of Canterbury and the University of Waikato.
• Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics – Also known in their abbreviated form as ITP, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics in New Zealand were generally established to provide vocational training, but these days also offer bachelors and masters degrees to students. 
• Wānanga – These are publicly owned educational institutions that provide education with a Māori focus, many offering bachelor’s degrees, and some offering postgraduate and doctoral level studies. These include Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.

Language of instruction

New Zealand has three official languages, English, Māori and New Zealand Sign Language. The main language of instruction in universities and colleges in New Zealand is English, whilst Māori and English languages are used in Wānanga.

Popular student cities in New Zealand

• Auckland – Located towards the northern tip of New Zealand’s northern island, Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand. A modern and vibrant city, it is also very multicultural – offering visitors a wide range of experiences. The Waitakere Ranges national park is nearby, and there is also access to over 20 beaches. 2 of the nation’s public universities are based in Auckland, Auckland University of Technology and the University of Auckland.
• Wellington – Situated at the southern tip of New Zealand’s northern island, Wellington is the compact capital city of New Zealand, with a population of just 200,000 people. Whilst it is a small city, it is full to the brim with culture, with food and art just waiting to be explored, alongside natural beauty and parks. It is also the economic hub of the country. Students will be attracted to Victoria University of Wellington, one of the most prestigious universities in the country.
• Christchurch – On the east coast of the southern island of New Zealand lies Christchurch, a relatively large city filled with parks and English style architecture. There are many cultural attractions to enjoy in Christchurch, from food, to arts and museums. Whilst it is a beautiful place to live or visit, it also offers students the opportunity to study at the University of Canterbury, a public research university that performs very well in international university rankings.
• Hamilton – Located in the Waikato region of the northern island of New Zealand, Hamilton is a city that offers visitors a mix of beautiful gardens, access to stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture and nightlife. It is home to the University of Waikato, one the most prestigious universities in New Zealand.

Table of the top ranked universities in New Zealand

We have compiled a list of some of the top universities and higher education providers in New Zealand to browse below. Click on universities you are interested in below to read more and to see what courses are available for international students.