Search
Showing 10 of 7183 results
-
Ngā Manapou in action
We’re proud to foster a culture at ENZ that values the beliefs, backgrounds, and experiences of all our people.
Our Manapou (values) guide how we collaborate, support one another and connect with our external partners and stakeholders. Guided by our overarching principle of Aroha, we listen respectfully, strive to think, and act constructively.
You will see our values come to life through Manaakitanga, uplifting our people’s mana, leading with kindness and showing care for others. Kaitiakitanga, treasuring cultural diversity and remaining curious to new perspective and ideas.
Be One is one team mindset where we work collaboratively and appreciate effective team work. Be Bold challenges what’s gone before and helps shape what’s coming.
This is what makes us who we are. Our Ngā Manapou are woven into everything we do and shape how our people thrive and show up at ENZ. -
New Zealand grows education partnerships at one of China’s largest international education events
New Zealand education took centre stage at the China Annual Conference and Expo for International Education (CACIE) and China Education Expo (CEE) in Beijing, where New Zealand was honoured as the 2025 Country of Honour.
New Zealand’s Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti, led a delegation of 25 tertiary education providers to China for the conference.
During the visit, Minister Reti met with Chinese Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng, opened the second New Zealand-China High-Level Education Forum, and the New Zealand Pavilion at CEE. He also met with Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Dr Yin Hejun to advance bilateral research and science cooperation.
Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) Chief Executive Amanda Malu says the event was a powerful platform to highlight the quality and innovation of New Zealand’s education system to one of our most important global education partners.
“Being the Country of Honour at CACIE and CEE gave us an unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate why New Zealand is a world-class education destination,” says Malu.
“Our education offering is backed by strong student outcomes and a reputation for safety, inclusivity, and innovation, qualities that resonate strongly with Chinese students and their families.”
The New Zealand Pavilion at CEE attracted thousands of prospective students, parents, and education partners, while CACIE provided a forum for high-level engagement between New Zealand and Chinese education leaders.
The visit saw ENZ sign a letter of intent with the China Center for International People-to-People Exchange to strengthen cooperation, specifically institutional relationships across vocational education, higher education, and schools.
Another significant outcome was the formalisation of 32 new partnerships between New Zealand education institutions and their Chinese counterparts, with many focused on transnational education programmes.
“These partnerships are more than agreements on paper, they represent real opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and pathways for students to experience the best of both countries,” Malu says.
“China continues to be a key partner in our international education sector, and events like CACIE reinforce the trust and mutual respect that underpin this relationship.”
With over 22,000 Chinese students enrolled in New Zealand in the first term of 2025, the strong interest at CEE reflects the enduring appeal of a New Zealand education.
“International students consistently tell us that their experience in New Zealand is positive and transformative,” Malu adds.
“That lived experience is our strongest endorsement, and it’s why we’re confident that the connections made at CACIE will translate into more students choosing New Zealand as their study destination.”
For further information:
Sai Raje | Senior Communications Advisor, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao
sai.raje@enz.govt.nz | +64 21 479 649
About Education New Zealand Manapou ki te AoEducation New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) is the government agency dedicated to helping New Zealand realise the social, cultural, and economic benefits of international education. Our role is to promote New Zealand as a high-quality education destination offering excellent education and student experiences.
With approximately 85 staff in 13 locations around the world, ENZ works closely with New Zealand’s diverse education sector which includes schools, English language providers, Private Training Establishments, Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology Te Pūkenga), and universities.
Internationally, we work with a range of education stakeholders, including government agencies and education providers to identify and encourage sustainable growth opportunities for New Zealand’s education sector.
-
Connecting with education providers and agents in Germany
Earlier this month, ENZ took part in the ICEF Conference in Berlin. ENZ Associate Director of Engagement, Olga Elli, joined a panel discussion on the topic ‘Australia and New Zealand: The Year That Was and the Year Ahead’. This session brought together agents and providers from around the world to explore policy updates, challenges, and opportunities in international education.
Central to the discussion was New Zealand’s International Education Going for Growth Plan, with its ambitious goals and targets. Olga highlighted that the strategy is built around sustainable growth and grounded in public support as well as student success. She reinforced a message that resonated strongly with the audience: New Zealand is open, and students are welcome.
ENZ Associate Director of Engagement, Olga Elli, participating in a panel discussion at the ICEF Conference in Berlin.
Another key engagement in Germany was a roundtable with Hamburg-based education agents, held during a cultural night at MARKK Museum and hosted by New Zealand Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Craig Hawke.
The roundtable provided an excellent opportunity to exchange market insights, address challenges, and identify new opportunities. Agents shared positive feedback on New Zealand’s growing popularity among German students, citing safety, high-quality education, and the manaakitanga New Zealand offers as key drivers.
They also noted the success of scholarship campaigns in promoting New Zealand as a study destination. Single-sex schools were highlighted as particularly appealing to high-performing German student athletes, and agents expressed interest in exploring new schools in smaller coastal towns.
Olga said engagements like this reaffirm the importance New Zealand places on collaboration and open dialogue with international partners. “By sharing insights, addressing challenges, and celebrating cultural connections, we continue to strengthen New Zealand’s position as a trusted and welcoming study destination,” Olga said.
ENZ will continue working closely with education agents to ensure they have up-to-date information on New Zealand, awareness of emerging policy updates, and access to New Zealand Taught Me campaign materials – so students can experience the very best our country has to offer.
-
South Korea event series highlights growing interest in New Zealand
New Zealand Education Fair in Korea draws strong interest
The New Zealand Education Fair in Seoul brought together 40 New Zealand schools and institutions, offering students and parents the chance to explore study opportunities directly with representatives.
Representatives from University of Auckland English Academy showcasing study options available to prospective students and their parents at the New Zealand Education Fair.
The event attracted 2,100 pre-registrations, with 900 participants attending on the day, underscoring the strong demand for New Zealand education pathways. Families engaged in one-to-one consultations, gaining tailored advice on study options, English preparation, and scholarship opportunities.
During the fair, alumni speakers were invited to share their personal journeys and provide guidance to attendees. They spoke about effective English study strategies before departure, practical approaches to a family “one-year living in New Zealand” experience, and the pathways from New Zealand study to admission into leading universities.
Strong interest in primary education
The fair confirmed a notable shift in interest, with Korean families showing particularly strong enthusiasm for primary education opportunities in New Zealand.
Many families expressed interest in spending at least a year in New Zealand with their young children, allowing them to experience the country’s safe and nurturing education environment first-hand. This reflects a growing trend in Korea towards family-based study abroad and “one-year living overseas” experiences.
Expanding interest in New Zealand education
While in Korea, New Zealand schools took part in the Agent Seminar and one-to-one meetings attended by 51 Korean education agency representatives. There was notable participation from agencies not specialising solely in New Zealand, who are now increasingly considering it a key English-speaking study destination to promote.
The event also provided a valuable opportunity for active engagement between New Zealand education providers and agents, followed by the New Zealand Education Night Reception at the official residence of New Zealand’s Ambassador to South Korea, H.E Dawn Bennet. There, deeper exchanges were held with Korean government officials, education stakeholders, and agency representatives.
Positive feedback from schools and families
New Zealand schools noted the high level of engagement and the quality of conversations with Korean students and their families at the New Zealand Education Fair. Attendees also shared positive feedback, commenting on the value of direct consultations with New Zealand education providers.
The Korea fair followed ENZ-led events in Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam, and marked the final stop in this season’s dedicated New Zealand education fairs across Asia. Together, these events have strengthened New Zealand’s connections with families across the region and reinforced the country’s reputation as a world-class study destination.
ENZ’s Senior Market Development Manager based in Seoul, Kay Lee, said the fair was a valuable platform to not only promote a New Zealand education, but gather insights too.
“It clearly showed how market trends and the expectations of Korean students and families are evolving,” she said.
“For students, it provided a strong understanding of the benefits of New Zealand’s education system, while for schools it was an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with highly interested families,” Kay added.
-
Celebrating excellence: ENZ hosts inaugural New Zealand Universities Awards in Viet Nam
The event highlighted New Zealand’s commitment to supporting Vietnamese students and reaffirmed the strong education partnership between the two countries during the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
The NZUA programme was officially announced by Prime Minister Rt Hon Christopher Luxon during a visit to Viet Nam earlier this year. It is the first New Zealand Government-backed undergraduate scholarship exclusively for Vietnamese students.
Following a competitive selection process, eight outstanding high school students were awarded the inaugural NZUA scholarships. Each recipient distinguished themselves not only through academic excellence but also through their personal aspirations, resilience, and commitment to engaging with the world.
At the ceremony, the students were formally presented with their scholarship certificates by Trade Commissioner Scott James and ENZ Regional Director – Asia (excluding China), Ben Burrowes. The celebration was witnessed by families, representatives from New Zealand universities and education agencies.
In his address, Scott highlighted the significance of this milestone.
“The inaugural NZUA cohort are not only exceptional students, but also cultural and intellectual bridges between our two nations. They stand as a vivid testament to the strong and enduring educational partnership between Viet Nam and New Zealand,” he said.
Ben also emphasised the value of the programme.
“The NZUA scholarship reflects the spirit of valuing both knowledge and people – a core principle of New Zealand’s education system.
“We are proud to welcome the first generation of NZUA Vietnamese students to New Zealand’s leading universities, where they will grow, integrate, and contribute to the shared progress of our world,” he said.
A particularly symbolic moment of the ceremony was the connection ritual between university representatives and the scholarship recipients. Students received congratulatory gifts and placed stars on a map of New Zealand to mark the cities and universities where they will soon study – a visual representation of the “first steps” of the NZUA generation.
Among the recipients, Do Tran Phuong Uyen said that she feels the scholarship is much more than financial support.
“It represents belief – belief in our potential, our dreams, and our ability to contribute to our communities and to the ongoing relationship between Viet Nam and New Zealand,” she said.
“It shows that young Vietnamese students can become leaders, innovators, and responsible global citizens,” Do added.
Parents also expressed their trust and confidence in New Zealand’s education system.
Ho Tuyen Truyen, father of recipient Ho Nhu Quynh Chi, said he places his full trust in New Zealand’s safe, high-quality education system.
“I believe that in this environment, my child will be nurtured with knowledge, resilience, and compassion,” he said.
As the first NZUA cohort prepares to begin their journeys, the scholarship stands as a powerful symbol of New Zealand’s commitment to Viet Nam’s young talent.
These students are poised to become influential ambassadors, helping to strengthen educational collaboration and foster deeper people-to-people connections between New Zealand and Viet Nam.
-
Indigenous to indigenous education: Shaping global futures together at WIPCE
The conference, hosted by Auckland University of Technology, brought together participants from around the world for rich discussions on how Indigenous knowledge systems and leadership continue to shape global futures. Keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions showcased the transformative potential of indigenous-led education.
A major focus of the gathering was to create pathways for mobility and partnership that uplift Indigenous students worldwide.
Attendees explored strategies for student exchanges, co-designed programmes, Indigenous-led research and teaching partnerships, and long-term relationship building across institutions.
These conversations laid the foundation for future initiatives that will enable Māori and Indigenous learners to connect across borders, deepen cultural understanding, and access education that reflects their identities and aspirations.
Beyond the formal programme, WIPCE created space for whakawhanaungatanga through shared kai (food), cultural exchange, and informal connection—reinforcing the relational foundations of Indigenous leadership: trust, reciprocity, and shared purpose.
ENZ Māori Advisor Āriana Ngarimu-Goldsmith represented ENZ in discussions and sessions at WIPCE and said the experience highlighted the strength of collective action.
“There is great power in coming together and uplifting one another, as we work towards a future where indigenous education is centred, valued, and celebrated.”
Pre-WIPCE hui in Tāmaki Makaurau
In partnership with APAIE (Asia-Pacific Association for International Education), ENZ Manapou ki te Ao hosted a pre-WIPCE gathering on 14 November in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. The hui brought together indigenous connectors from across Aotearoa, Australia, Canada and USA to share, wānanga, and prepare collectively for WIPCE 2025.
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei opened the hui with mana and aroha, setting the tone for a day of genuine connection, respect, and belonging.
Attendees shared collective aspirations and challenges within the education systems, reinforcing a collective commitment to tackle structural inequities, elevate culture and identity as foundations for learner success, and strengthen indigenous-to-indigenous connections globally.
Ed Tuari (Manukura – Chief Advisor Māori) facilitated discussions exploring what is front-of-mind for participants as they moved toward WIPCE 2025.
The wānanga format intentionally moved away from “stand and deliver” presentations, instead fostering an open space for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning.
The wānanga format intentionally moved away from “stand and deliver” presentations, instead fostering an open space for reflection, dialogue, and shared learning.
ENZ Manukura Chief Advisor Māori, Ed Tuari, said the events affirmed the power of indigenous knowledge to not only educate, but to transform.
“These engagements remind us that shaping global futures requires indigenous leadership, cultural integrity, and enduring relationships,” he added.
Ko ngā tini aho o te tukutuku whakaniko i te hinengaro
Me tuitui ki te tūmatakahuki o te hononga taketake o te aoBy Rāhera Shortland,
The many strands of knowledge that embellish the mind
Are woven upon a lattice of Indigenous connectivity across the world. -
Photo story – New Zealand education showcased in China
New Zealand speakers take the stage
Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti delivering welcome remarks at New Zealand-China Education B2B Session. As part of the China Annual Conference for International Education (CACIE), the B2B Session attracted over 117 visitors to engage in productive dialogues with participating New Zealand tertiary institutions aiming to build collegial partnership.
Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti and REN Youqun, Vice Minister of Education of China witnessed the signing of Letter of Intent between Universities New Zealand and China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE) and Education New Zealand and China Centre for International People-to-People Exchange (CCIPE) at the 2nd New Zealand High-level Education Forum. The letters of intent between Chinese and New Zealand government agencies places existing collaboration within a more formal framework, allowing both sides to work more effectively together to advance shared education cooperation goals.
Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti delivering remarks at CACIE Night, a key plenary event at the conference. In his remarks, he recognised New Zealand’s role as Country of Honour at CACIE and celebrated the deep and enduring education ties between New Zealand and China.
ENZ Chief Executive Amanda Malu speaking to a packed audience at CACIE Night, highlighting the strengths of New Zealand’s education system, the unique student experience, and the values that underpin our education brand.
Professor Damon Salesa, Vice-Chancellor, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) provided the Academic keynote address at the CACIE Plenary event.
During his address, Damon said: “This year, as New Zealand was recognised as the honour country, we were invited to share our story. It is a story of a small, agile education system that is responding to global challenges with creativity, care and collaboration.”
“It is a story of how we are preparing our learners for a future shaped by advancement in technology, while ensuring that innovation remains human-centred and culturally grounded,” he said.
China Education Expo
The New Zealand pavilion at the China Education Expo was front and centre, attracting many of the 15,000 attendees who attended the Expo in Beijing over two days.
Representatives from New Zealand and China cutting the ribbon to officially open the New Zealand pavilion at CEE.
Te Wehi Haka, the Haka Experience, provided a Māori cultural performance that attracted students, parents, agents and partners to the New Zealand pavilion.
Ara Institute of Canterbury international department staff alongside Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Technology & Innovation, Hon Dr Shane Reti (pictured centre).
Following the expo, 87% of those surveyed said their knowledge of New Zealand as a country to study in has improved after visiting the New Zealand pavilion
Additionally, 73% of those surveyed said they are more likely to consider New Zealand as a country to study in after visiting the New Zealand pavilion.
New Zealand education providers talking to crowds of prospective students and their parents at CEE.
Representatives from the New Zealand government alongside New Zealand education providers at the CEE New Zealand pavillion.
ENZ Agent Seminars in Beijing, Chengdu and Wuhan
Attendees of the agent seminar in Beijing.
Building on the buzz of CACIE, ENZ hosted three Agent Seminars across Beijing, Chengdu and Wuhan.
The seminars connected over forty New Zealand education providers and around 320 visitors.
The seminars supported New Zealand providers to build connections with Chinese education agents
ENZ Director of Marketing, Adrian Hirst, said the personal connections made were a highlight of the event series.
“Sharing dinner at an agent’s home with parents and future students was a highlight, the informal setting sparked a lively Q&A session, which reinforced the trust families place in the process and the responsibility we all carry in our roles,” Adrian said.
Maximising the Country of Honour opportunity
Being named Country of Honour at CACIE and CEE was a prime opportunity for New Zealand to showcase its world-class education to Chinese audiences. ENZ delivered a strategic, multi-phase approach that built momentum before the events, maximised on-site impact through high-profile media coverage and Ministerial presence, and amplified engagement digitally with campaigns on platforms popular in China.
Minister for Universities and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Hon Dr Shane Reti being interviewed by leading state media outlet, CGTN.
ENZ Chief Executive Amanda Malu speaking to China’s largest state TV network, CCTV at the CEE New Zealand pavilion.
ENZ Regional Director for China, Ron Xavier reporting in from CEE, speaking to Sina Education.
-
From the Chief Executive: Growth and global partnerships in international education
Kia ora koutou,
It’s great to be home following an impactful, whirlwind visit to Beijing for the China Annual Conference and Expo for International Education (CACIE).
I am pleased with the collective outcomes we have achieved from this visit. For one, New Zealand education institutions formalised 32 new partnerships with their Chinese counterparts that present real opportunity for knowledge exchange and pathways for students to experience the best of both countries.
ENZ signed a letter of intent with the China Center for International People-to-People Exchange to grow our education cooperation, particularly through institutional relationships across higher education and schools.
As Country of Honour at CACIE 2025 New Zealand had unparalleled opportunity to demonstrate why we are a high-quality education destination, backed by a strong student experience and a reputation for safety, inclusivity and innovation.
Last week ENZ’s extended leadership team, including our offshore Regional Directors, came together in Wellington. As part of our programme we visited four education providers across the region – Wellington College, Victoria University of Wellington, Whitireia and WelTec Petone and Le Cordon Bleu Wellington – before meeting with the Schools International Education Business Association (SIEBA) to understand the work they do with schools nationwide. These were insightful engagements that enriched our understanding, and we appreciated the warm welcome extended.
In other news, I am pleased to share with you that Tony Gray has been appointed permanent Chair of the Board of Education New Zealand. Tony has been a strong advocate for us while Acting Chair and a genuine pleasure to work with, so it is fantastic to have him confirmed in the role to 31 October 2027.
Lastly, I wanted to finish by acknowledging the sad passing of two public sector colleagues, Paul Irwin and Neil Miller, during the month of October.
Paul Irwin was a valued colleague at ENZ, having been a member of the Senior Leadership Team and part of our whānau for seven years. Although I didn’t work with Paul at ENZ, I knew him from his advertising industry days when we worked together on the ‘It’s Not OK’ campaign for action on family violence. His passing is a tremendous loss and he will be remembered for his strategic smarts, calm nature, and his leadership of New Zealand’s education brand over the years.
As Chief Advisor - Policy and International at the New Zealand Qualifications Authority, Neil Miller was a regular presence at International Peak Body meetings over the last four years. Neil would bring his deep-thinking skills and humour to these meetings, and always took a genuine approach to listening and helping solve issues that matter to us all.
Our thoughts are with their families and friends.
Moe mai rā, Paul and Neil.
Kua whetūrangitia kōrua
Return, take your place amongst the stars along with your ancestors that adorn the sky.
Ngā mihi nui,
Amanda Malu
Chief Executive
-
Around the world in five
The United States
The USA’s higher education section reached a new benchmark of 1.17 million international students in the 2024/25 academic year driven by a surge in OPT participants, according to the latest Open Doors research, although a snapshot report on enrolments in the current year flags a decline in new students amid visa delays and policy changes.
United Kingdom
As the UK prepares for the Graduate Route to be shortened from two years to 18 months, London’s business leaders have had their say on international graduates in the workforce, with 90% showing support.
North America
Canadian and American universities are struggling amidst government policies meant to curb immigration and/or international student numbers. Meanwhile, Asian and European institutions are gaining market share of international student enrolments.
India
Institutions that adapt to India’s new student mindset will lead the next decade of international education growth, says Landmark Global Learning.
Asia
As Asian economies rise to global leadership, upwardly mobile young populations driven by unprecedented aspirations are increasingly open to non-traditional educational pathways. These pathways include micro-credentials, with countries such as India, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand leading the way in redesigning higher education structures.
-
Strengthening education partnerships in Japan
The visit was led by ENZ Group General Manager for International and Sector Engagement, Sahinde Pala, and Regional Director for Asia (excluding China), Ben Burrowes, who met with partners in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Sapporo to formalise agreements and discuss future initiatives.
Renewed commitment to education collaboration with Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education
On 20 October, ENZ renewed its Education Cooperation Arrangement (ECA) with the Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education. First signed in 2017, the arrangement underpins collaboration on inbound and outbound study programmes and initiatives that deepen understanding of New Zealand’s education system.
The renewal included a review of past activities and discussions on future areas of cooperation, ensuring the partnership continues to deliver meaningful outcomes for students and educators.
New arrangement with Ritsumeikan Academy
On 21 October, ENZ signed a new ECA with Ritsumeikan University and its affiliated schools. Ritsumeikan is recognised for its strong focus on global competence and has maintained a close relationship with New Zealand since 2000 through long-term and exchange programmes.
ENZ Group General Manager International & Sector Engagement, Sahinde Pala, alongside Chancellor, The Ritsumeikan Trust Presindent, Ritsumeikan University, Dr.Yoshio Nakatani.
The formalisation of this partnership builds on years of collaboration, including support for identifying partner schools and facilitating study tours. The new arrangement will strengthen opportunities for Japanese students to experience New Zealand education.
Reaffirming ties with Hokkaido Board of Education
On 22 October, ENZ met with the Hokkaido Board of Education to reaffirm a partnership that began in 2017 and was formalised through an ECA in 2020. Discussions focused on continuing reciprocal school exchanges, advancing digital learning in regional areas, and promoting cross-cultural understanding and global learning for students in both regions.
From L to R: ENZ Senior Market Development Manager Takako Tominaga, Chief Coordinator, Hokkaido Board of Education Yohei Kato, ENZ Regional Director Ben Burrowes, ENZ Group General Manager Sahinde Pala and International Exchange Section, High School Education Division, Bureau of school Education, Aoi Konagaya.
This engagement reflects ENZ’s commitment to sustaining and deepening educational exchange between Hokkaido and New Zealand.
Meeting with JAOS leadership
Also on 22 October, ENZ met with Mr. Sone, a Board Member of the Japan Association of Overseas Studies (JAOS), the peak body representing Japan’s study-abroad agencies. JAOS promotes ethical industry standards, provides counsellor training, and advocates for safe, high-quality study abroad options for Japanese students.
The discussion covered the strong reputation of New Zealand in the high school sector, emerging market dynamics, and evolving preferences among students and parents. Both sides explored opportunities for deeper collaboration with Japanese agents, including future initiatives to strengthen partnerships and enhance global learning experiences.
Looking ahead
The visit marked an important step in strengthening ENZ’s partnerships across Japan and reaffirming shared goals for international education.
Reflecting on the visit, Sahinde Pala said this visit shows ENZ’s commitment to building strong international partnerships.
“We are delighted to work with our Japanese partners to create more opportunities for students from both countries to gain global skills and for Japanese students to experience the quality of NZ's education system," she said.
