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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. -
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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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International education drives NZ$4.5 billion economic boost as sector grows with strong public support
New Zealand’s international education sector continues its steady and balanced growth, contributing more than NZ$4.52 billion annually to the economy and enjoying enduring public support for international students.
According to latest Stats NZ data, education-related travel exports climbed to $4.52 billion for the year ended September 2025, up from $3.6 billion in the year ended December 2024. International education now ranks among New Zealand’s top 10 exports and now contributes 13.6% of the country’s total services exports.
From January to August 2025, 83,535 international students enrolled with New Zealand education providers, a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2024, and already surpassing last year’s full-year total.
Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) Chief Executive Amanda Malu said the figures confirm New Zealand’s position as a trusted and attractive destination for international learners.
“New Zealand is moving higher up the ladder of top choices of study destinations as students look for quality education in a safe, welcoming and stimulating environment. Our steady growth shows the sector is resilient and competitive as we move at pace to deliver on the International Education Going for Growth Plan,” Malu said.
“We are not chasing numbers at any cost, we are focused on sustainable, balanced growth that benefits our regions, strengthens our economy, and adds value to our communities.”
Quality Tertiary Institutions (QTI) Chair and New Zealand Skills and Education Group Founder, Brijesh Sethi, said he was very pleased to see international student enrolments increase for private training establishments (PTEs) in New Zealand.
“This growth is not only an academic success story but also an economic one.
“International students contribute substantially to local communities and the national economy, reinforcing the international education sector’s role as a cornerstone of New Zealand’s global engagement strategy.
“While there are some concerns regarding the PTE application numbers for 2025, enrolment increases are encouraging,” Sethi said.
Public support remains strong
Alongside growth in international student enrolments, ENZ’s latest 2025 Public Perceptions of International Education Survey shows 77% of New Zealanders want to see the same or more international students in the country up slightly on last year’s 75%.
By comparison, only just over 50% of Australians polled in 2025 support maintaining or increasing international student numbers, and at less than 50% of those in the UK polled in 2023 were in favour of students coming to research or study at UK universities.
Commenting on the survey, Malu said the survey shows international education is a key economic growth driver that also brings diverse perspectives through visiting students.
“It’s absolutely fantastic to see New Zealanders continue to back international students so strongly year after year,” Malu said.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, University of Waikato, Alister Jones, said they were excited about the increasing number of international students at the university.
“This represents the significant work undertaken by our International and Engagement Office, both onshore and offshore.
“Our international students bring diversity to our Hamilton and Tauranga campuses, as well as having a positive impact on the wider communities and businesses.
“For the students who choose to make New Zealand their home upon completing their studies, it is a really good outcome for New Zealand society as a whole,” Jones said.
Beyond the economic benefits, New Zealanders also continue to appreciate the broad range of cultural and social benefits that international students bring to the country.
81% agree international students contribute to local communities, and 79% say they provide invaluable global connections and research links.
“International education is not just an economic driver, it’s a bridge to the world.
“New Zealanders clearly value the cultural and social benefits international students bring, and that support is vital as we look to the future,” Malu said.
Looking ahead
ENZ’s International Education Going for Growth Plan aims to double the sector’s export value to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034, while maintaining public support for international education.
“International education is a key contributor to the Government’s Going for Growth Plan to grow the New Zealand economy. This growth reflects the sector’s resilience and its critical role in our economic future.”
“Our focus is on sustainable, balanced growth, diversifying markets, strengthening vocational pathways, and ensuring students have a positive experience.
“We want New Zealand to remain among the top choices globally, not just for education quality but for the values we stand for,” Malu said.
Read more:
International student enrolments 2013-2025
2025 New Zealanders’ Perceptions of International Education Survey | ENZ IntelliLab
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.
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Education New Zealand Chief Executive Amanda Malu steps down
Amanda has been appointed Secretary for Children and Chief Executive of Oranga Tamariki – Ministry for Children, starting in early 2026.
She was appointed as ENZ Chief Executive in June 2024, taking charge on 30 September 2024. She was previously Deputy Chief Executive, Service Delivery at Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), and Chief Executive of Whānau Āwhina Plunket.
NZ Board Chair Tony Gray acknowledged Amanda’s outstanding contribution to Education New Zealand and the international education sector as she led ENZ through a period of complex change.
“In a relatively short time, Amanda has built up positive relationships across Government and the sector, represented ENZ at the highest levels and effectively promoted New Zealand’s international education offering around the world.
“In addition, Amanda has delivered an organisational reset which has helped set ENZ up well for the future.
“We are immensely grateful for Amanda’s leadership and we wish her every success with her new role. In the meantime, business continues as usual and our team worldwide remains focused on delivering the Going for Growth Plan ambitions for New Zealand.”
The ENZ Board has commenced immediate recruitment for a new Chief Executive.
“Between now and her departure date, we will be working with Amanda and the leadership team to ensure a smooth transition,” Tony said.
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