Aotearoa New Zealand reinforces strong presence at NAFSA 2026

Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) participated in the NAFSA 2026 Annual Conference & Expo in Orlando, Florida (26-29 May), joining all eight New Zealand universities under the conference theme ‘Global by Design’.

Together, the delegation presented a unified national profile, reinforcing New Zealand’s reputation as a high-quality, innovative, and welcoming study destination.

As the world’s largest gathering of international education professionals, NAFSA brings together thousands of delegates from more than 100 countries, providing a critical platform for global engagement, partnership-building, and sector leadership.

For New Zealand, this annual presence remains essential – ensuring strong global visibility, strengthening enduring institutional relationships, and positioning the country as an active, forward-looking partner in shaping the future of international education.

Two presentations highlighted New Zealand’s leadership across key sector priorities.

Associate Professor and Assistant Vice-Chancellor (Mātauranga Māori), Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, Meegan Hall, presented ‘He Whenua Whakapiri: The Aotearoa New Zealand Model for International Student Belonging’. Her session explored how culturally grounded approaches can strengthen belonging and student success, emphasising connection, identity, and community as core to the international student experience.

“NAFSA provided a valuable space to share our distinctive Aotearoa New Zealand approach to international education, grounded in relationships and Māori values. It was a privilege to present and connect with colleagues from around the world who are committed to equitable and inclusive global engagement,” Meegan said.

In a separate session, ENZ’s Director of Engagement (North America), DuBois Jennings, represented New Zealand on a panel titled Impact of Country Partnerships on US Study Abroad Engagement alongside representatives from Germany and Portugal, exploring the US Gilman Scholarship Programme. The discussion focused on expanding access to study abroad and increasing participation from underrepresented students. 

New Zealand was the first country to formally partner with the US Department of State’s Gilman Programme and will celebrate a decade of partnership in 2027 – reflecting a shared commitment to equity in international education. Jennings noted that this focus naturally aligns with New Zealand’s national approach, where inclusive pathways and tailored student support are a core priority across the sector.

Together, this collective effort marked another strong showing from New Zealand universities at NAFSA.

ENZ’s Regional Director Americas, Europe & Gulf Cooperation Council, Natalie Lulia, said New Zealand’s presence this year at NAFSA reflected the values that underpin both our society and our education system.

“Through partnership, care, and a strong sense of responsibility to our students, we’re able to achieve what is often rare at a country level. It’s this shared foundation that shapes our offering and strengthens our global voice,” Natalie said.