International education in New Zealand is not just bouncing back, it’s accelerating. According to the latest report from Education New Zealand (ENZ), the sector contributed NZ $4.52 billion in the year ended September 2025, a remarkable increase from NZ $3.6 billion just months earlier.
From January to August 2025, more than 83,500 international students enrolled with New Zealand education providers, a 14 % increase compared with the same period in 2024. That surge has already pushed total enrolments beyond last year’s full-year figures.
For many Kiwi institutions and communities, that growth is more than just numbers: it’s a sign that New Zealand remains a top global destination for quality education, cultural exchange, and long-term global impact.
The Chief Executive of ENZ, Amanda Malu, said the data confirm New Zealand’s standing as a trusted, attractive destination for international learners. She emphasised that the government’s carefully calibrated International Education Going for Growth Plan is now delivering real-world outcomes.
Far from chasing raw numbers, Malu added, the aim is “sustainable, balanced growth” — growth that strengthens regional economies, enriches communities, and preserves the quality of student experience.
It’s not only about tuition fees or immediate spending. The survey conducted alongside the report shows that public support for international students remains strong: 77 % of New Zealanders want to see the same or greater numbers of international students in the country — up slightly from last year’s 75 %.
Many respondents recognise the broader value these students bring — from boosting cultural diversity and global perspectives on campuses, to fostering research links and international networks that benefit the whole country.
Universities and education providers are echoing that sentiment. For example, at the University of Waikato, growing international enrolments are seen not only as a win for campus life but also as a boon to Hamilton, Tauranga and beyond — economically and socially.
Eyes on the Future: Growth Strategy 2034
Looking ahead, the Going for Growth Plan aims to double the international education sector’s export value to NZ $7.2 billion by 2034.
ENZ is focusing on diversified and balanced growth: widening recruitment markets, strengthening vocational and tertiary pathways, and safeguarding high-quality student experiences. The goal is for New Zealand to remain among the top global choices — not just for academic excellence, but for a welcoming, inclusive, and internationally minded student experience.
For prospective students, New Zealand offers more than just academic credentials: it promises access to a multicultural, globally connected community where students contribute to and benefit from economic, social and cultural growth.
For local communities, international students mean vibrant campuses, economic stimulus, and richer cultural exchange.
For the international education sector, the rebound and growth underscore resilience, adaptability, and the appeal of NZ educational institutions on the world stage.
… and this author can’t help but feel that it’s refreshing to write about a country that appears to be united behind its international education sector.
Well done, NZ!
