Message from Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills, Penny Simmonds

It’s good to reflect on ENZ’s New Zealand International Education Strategy (NZIES), “to enable a thriving and globally connected New Zealand through world-class international education.” 

I am delighted to say that with the increase in the numbers of overseas students we are on track to deliver on that strategy.   

There have been 59,306 international student enrolments for Jan - August 2023, a 43% increase compared to the full year in 2022.   

And New Zealanders' understanding of the economic and social benefits of international students was reflected in a survey late in December 2023 by Ipsos  which showed  75% percent of New Zealanders believe that overseas students benefit New Zealand. This is up from 47% in 2019.  

An increase in the number of international students from all over the world is positive as it brings in vital revenue for institutions and the country, but it also has the spinoff of creating a wonderful cosmopolitan element to campus life.   

New Zealand is a small country and for many students, rubbing shoulders with people from other cultures will give them a greater understanding of the issues facing our complex world. In this time of fragile geopolitics, the melting pot of campus life can help build greater understanding and tolerance.  

In turn Kiwi students also can be champions for our own country as they share their knowledge, experience and friendship with the overseas students. 

The quality education that our institutions provide also enhances our global society by upskilling and educating all students to take on international work opportunities which inevitably spreads New Zealand’s values and influence throughout our world.  

Hon Penny Simmonds
Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills