Connected

New Zealand is a compact country and highly responsive to the changing needs of global communities and international business. They are keen observers of emerging trends and are inclined to adopt new technologies early and successfully. In the 1980s, for example, they were the first country in the world to trial electronic payment systems (EFTPOS).

Inventive

Young and free of constricting traditions, New Zealand has learned to be self-reliant and to forge its own way in the world. New Zealand’s youth and fresh outlook make it the natural home for fresh ideas.

This innovative thinking is reflected in the way we teach and learn. Their education system encourages inventive thinking and teaching techniques that reach far beyond traditional rote learning.

Their innovative approach to learning – and esteemed qualifications – are highly valued by the world’s business and community leaders.

Trusted

New Zealand’s education system is based on the prestigious British system. They offer world-class facilities, resources and teaching staff, and our qualifications are valued and transferable throughout the world.

The OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) ranks New Zealand’s school system very highly. PISA is a 3 yearly survey of the achievement levels of 15-year old students in major industrialised countries. New Zealand consistently ranks at or near the top across a range of student achievement indicators. In the latest PISA studies, New Zealand’s 15 year olds placed among the top four OECD country results for reading and science, and among the top eight for mathematics.

New Zealand’s universities perform very highly on a global level. Many feature in international university rankings like the Times Higher Education Supplement Top 500 and the Shanghai Jiao Tong Top 500.

Personal

In New Zealand, every student enjoys a supportive learning environment. With relatively small class sizes, students receive more personalised attention from their teachers than they do in other parts of the world.

Students are treated as individuals – you’re encouraged to learn from others but also to think for yourself. You’ll learn how to harness your unique strengths and original ideas and channel them into an exciting career.

For international students, this personalised treatment extends beyond the classroom. New Zealand was the first country to adopt a code of practice that sets out standards for the care of international students, in and out of the classroom.

All institutions that host international students have staff dedicated to ensuring their time in New Zealand is happy and successful.

Adventurous 

New Zealand is the ultimate destination for adventure lovers. In a pristine natural environment of mountains, lakes and coast, you’ll find a dazzling array of pulse-quickening activities that are easily accessible and affordable.

Sir Edmund Hilary, perhaps New Zealand’s greatest adventure hero, was the first man to stand on the summit of Mt Everest. His adventurous spirit conquered the world’s harshest environment and profoundly influenced our national psyche.

When New Zealanders’ adventurous spirit mixes with our natural inventiveness the results can be world-changing. When AJ Hackett and friends started throwing themselves off bridges attached by oversized rubber bands they invented a global phenomenon now known as bungy jumping.

Zorbing is a recent addition to the long list of quirky adventure activities with a uniquely Kiwi heritage. Where else in the world can you roll down a hill in a giant rubber ball?

Lively

New Zealand’s scenic beauty is world renowned. But many visitors are surprised to discover an energetic, modern society among the mountains, rivers and coast.

As an international student in New Zealand you’ll enjoy a sophisticated lifestyle and high quality, affordable accommodation. You’ll probably live close to where you learn so classes, as well as social opportunities, are easy to get to.

New Zealand cities have their own special character, but they’re all a rich blend of nightlife, cafes, movies and shopping.

New Zealand has a rich arts heritage with professional theatre and orchestras, and a thriving live music scene. The film industry is known for its quirky hits loved in art house cinemas around the world, and major blockbusters like Lord of the Rings and King Kong.

With so much to see and do, it’s little wonder that New Zealand cafes serve some of the world’s strongest coffee.

Welcoming

New Zealanders are a famously hospitable people with a lively interest in other cultures. An education here is frequently the beginning of lifelong friendships.

New Zealand is a rich mix of cultures – including Maori, Pakeha (European descent), Asian and Pacific peoples. An increasing number of African and Latin American people also call New Zealand home.

Beyond the warm welcome, you’ll find a place where safety and security are valued. New Zealand has strong guidelines for education and home stay providers to ensure international students are always well looked after.

New Zealanders are known as the world’s greatest travellers. We love to experience new cultures and we know what it’s like to be new in another country. We like to feel welcome when we’re overseas – and we return the favour to our international students.