From the Chief Executive: Building on strong foundations

I'd like to start this pānui, my first as Chief Executive of Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ), with a whakataukī: ka mua, ka muri – walking backwards into the future. It's an important reminder that we can't move forward without acknowledging our past.

I'd like to thank former Chief Executive Amanda Malu and Acting Chief Executive Dr Linda Sissons, who have helped create the strong foundations ENZ and the sector continue to build on.

I feel privileged and excited to step into the role of Chief Executive alongside such a dedicated team. We have a big mission, and I feel energised and ready to take on the challenge set out in the Government's International Education Going for Growth plan: increasing the economic value of international education for New Zealand.

ENZ exists to grow international education for New Zealand and create opportunities in partnership with the sector. We share New Zealand's story with the world and support it with teams on the ground in 15 markets who build relationships, identify emerging trends, and help connect New Zealand with prospective students. We provide market insights that help inform decision making and identify opportunities for growth. When we succeed together, the benefits flow back to providers, communities and New Zealand’s economy – more students, stronger enrolments, and international learners that increasingly choose New Zealand.

We have a clear roadmap and strong momentum behind us. In the year ended March 2026, international education made its largest contribution yet to New Zealand's economy, generating $4.85 billion in spending by international students. It's heartening to see New Zealand remain a top choice for international learners, and 87 percent of international students rate their experience here positively. I look forward to building on that success as we focus on our priority and emerging markets.

Another key focus is supporting sustainable growth across our markets. Earlier this month, we shared our updated go-to-market plans with the sector, outlining opportunities to strengthen New Zealand's position in established markets while identifying areas for growth in emerging ones. This work is critical for continuing to attract high-quality learners and building long-term success for the sector.

I was also privileged to attend a special lunch during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to New Zealand. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the growing relationship between our two countries and the cultural connections that underpin it. India remains one of New Zealand's most important international education markets, with more than 12,000 Indian students choosing to study here in 2025. The visit highlighted the strong momentum in our bilateral relationship and the exciting opportunities ahead to deepen education, research and people-to-people connections.

As we reflect on the recent Matariki season, I'm reminded how closely its themes align with the whakataukī I opened with. Matariki is a time to reflect on those who have shaped our journey, celebrate where we are today, and look ahead with intention and hope. For ENZ, it’s also a reminder of the power of international education to connect people, cultures and communities. The same stars that hold meaning here in Aotearoa are recognised by cultures around the world, reflecting the shared values of learning, connection and belonging that underpin our work. As we continue growing the sector, those connections remain at the heart of what we do.

My thanks again for the warm welcome into my new role. I'm looking forward to meeting as many of you as I can over the coming weeks and months.

Ko te manu e kai ana i te miro, nōna te ngahere; ko te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga, nōna te ao.

The bird that feeds on the miro berry owns the forest; the bird that feeds on knowledge owns the world.

Ngā mihi nui,
David Downs
Chief Executive