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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. - Craig speaking
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Building on momentum from 2025 for steady growth in 2026
Kia ora koutou,
As 2025 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved together, and to thank you for the incredible support you’ve shown to grow international education in New Zealand.
This year has been one of big wins:
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New Zealand now has 83,535 international students enrolled between January and August, a 14% increase on last year, already surpassing 2024’s total.
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Education-related travel exports hit $4.52 billion, making international education among New Zealand’s top 10 exports.
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87% of international students rated their experience in the country positively, with 77% of New Zealanders agreeing that international education benefits the country.
These results are a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the commitment of everyone in this sector. Thank you for working with us on our Go-to-Market Plans, we are excited to keep building on this momentum in 2026 as we deliver on the International Education Going for Growth Plan.
And it’s not just our sector shining, New Zealand continues to stand out globally on several counts, which make us even more appealing as a high-quality study destination.
We are globally ranked:
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fifth for overall higher education quality (QS World University Rankings 2026)
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second on the Sustainable Trade Index
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third-most peaceful country in the world (Global Peace Index 2025)
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first for work-life balance (Global Life Work Balance Index 2025)
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tenth for overall prosperity and wellbeing (Legatum Prosperity Index 2025).
Finally, I want to acknowledge Amanda’s outstanding leadership as ENZ Chief Executive. Amanda has strengthened relationships across government and the sector, represented New Zealand internationally, and delivered an organisational reset that sets ENZ up for the future.
We’re immensely grateful for her contribution and wish her every success in her next role.
The ENZ Board has started recruiting for a new Chief Executive, and we’re working closely with Amanda and the leadership team to ensure a smooth transition. In the meantime, business continues as usual, and our team remains focused on achieving the growth goals we have set for international education.
On behalf of the ENZ Board, thank you for everything you’ve done to help international education grow and thrive this year.
Wishing you a safe and happy festive season filled with relaxation, good cheer and time with loved ones. We look forward to connecting again in the New Year and continuing this important work together.
Ngā mihi nui,
Tony Gray
Chair, Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao -
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From the Chief Executive: Celebrating 2025 – A year of growth for international education
Kia ora koutou,
As we wind down the year and get ready for a well-deserved Christmas and end-of-year break, I am reflecting on a year that has been transformative for international education in New Zealand.
This year, we moved from recovery to a focus on sustainable growth. The launch of the International Education Going for Growth Plan, set a bold vision for the next decade. On the back of this plan, we strengthened education partnerships across borders, showcased New Zealand’s unique education offering on the global stage, and saw international student enrolments and student satisfaction climb steadily. These achievements belong to all of us, education providers, education agents, educators, and the communities who make this sector vibrant and resilient.
What stands out most for me is the spirit of collaboration. From prime ministerial trade missions in Viet Nam, India and China, to global conferences, from regional engagement to innovative campaigns, the sector has shown what’s possible when we work together with purpose and ambition. International education is not just an export, it’s a bridge between cultures, ideas, and opportunities, and that bridge is stronger than ever.
Last week, it was with mixed emotions that that I shared my decision to step down as ENZ Chief Executive on 6 February 2026 to take up the role of Secretary for Children and Chief Executive of Oranga Tamariki. This decision comes from a deeply personal commitment to improving outcomes for tamariki and young people, a passion that has guided much of my career. While I am excited for this next chapter, leaving ENZ is bittersweet. Leading Manapou ki te Ao has been a privilege and a highlight of my professional life.
I want to reassure you: ENZ is in a strong position. The organisational reset we’ve achieved, the clarity of our strategy, and the capability of our people mean the sector is well placed to continue its upward trajectory. The Board has already begun the process to appoint a new Chief Executive, and I have every confidence that the transition will be seamless.
Thank you for your partnership, your trust, and your unwavering commitment to international education – here’s wishing you have a wonderful time with your whanau and friends over the holidays.
I leave knowing that the future of this sector, and its contribution to New Zealand, is bright.
Kei ōu ringaringa te ao
The world is yours.
Ngā mihi nui,
Amanda Malu
Chief Executive - 449122521 862414652590544 194789049315590277 n