New Zealand universities connect with students across Hawai’i

Building on the momentum from last year’s inaugural visit, this year’s programme brought together an even wider network of students, counsellors, and partners – reflecting the growing interest across Hawai‘i in international pathways.

This year’s showcase again benefitted from strong NZ Inc engagement, with the New Zealand Consulate providing support including Consul General to Hawai‘i, Stuart Horne, opening one of the key events on the first day for O‘ahu school counsellors.

 New Zealand Consul-General to Hawai‘i Stu Horne delivers opening remarks 

ENZ’s Regional Director – Americas, Europe & GCC, Natalie Lulia, said the presence and support of the New Zealand Consulate team in Hawai‘i helped reinforce a unified New Zealand education presence.

“It was great to begin our Hawai‘i Showcase with the support of our Consul General and the New Zealand Consulate team in Hawai‘i. Their presence strengthened our regional relationships and reinforced the Aotearoa New Zealand message we aimed to convey as a unified ENZ-universities delegation, exemplifying the welcoming, community‑focused, and collaborative values we promote to students, families, and counsellors,” Natalie said.

Across the five days, the showcase delivered 14 events across three islands, including school visits, education fairs, and counsellor engagements. 

Strong participation throughout the week reflected sustained interest in New Zealand as a study destination, with families eager to learn more about universities, programmes, and pathways.

Samuel Lafontaine-Tardif of the Victoria University of Wellington speaking to families at Seabury Hall Fair.

A key enhancement in 2026 was the addition of a dedicated leg on Maui. Seabury Hall generously hosted the fair, providing a welcoming space that highlighted the island’s warmth, curiosity, and enthusiasm for pathways to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Counsellors shared how the roadshow has already become a valuable touchpoint for families exploring global study options – and how early conversations are starting to translate into tangible planning for the future.

Many parents also expressed how meaningful it was to have direct access to institutions, an opportunity they rarely receive. One parent, Erica Ledesma, whose son Logan is currently studying in New Zealand, shared how significant these interactions are for families:

“This was an important experience as many families are interested in sending their students to study in NZ but had no way to connect to the programs and universities. The presentations gave families a direction to figure out which university is the best fit for their student.

"In my personal experience with the staff from the University of Waikato, having a team who can help international students with their student visas, registration, financial aid, and figuring out accommodation has been amazing. It is a process to get any student settled at a university, and this international team has helped my son’s dream become a reality!”

Her reflections echoed what many families expressed throughout the week – that the visit not only opened doors but built genuine confidence in navigating international study.

Building on the enthusiasm shared by families throughout the week, many are now moving from curiosity to concrete plans, said Natalie.

“We are already hearing from parents and students who engaged with us during the visit, asking to set up campus visits in New Zealand. Their proactive steps demonstrate not only heightened interest but a clear commitment to pursuing study opportunities.”

ENZ extends sincere thanks to the New Zealand university representatives for their collaboration, commitment and partnership throughout the showcase, and to the students, families, counsellors, and partners across Hawai‘i for their warm welcome.