I AM NEW – Begin your journey to New Zealand

Designed by world famous Maori fashion designer, Kiri Nathan - who has developed pieces for international figures such as Barack Obama, Beyoncé and the Duchess of Sussex, the Kakahu (Maori Cloak) which is primarily used as a graduation gown was reimagined to incorporate the culture and tradition of New Zealand.

     With quality education, rich Maori culture and a diverse student population, New Zealand creates future leaders with a global mindset.

All eight universities in New Zealand are ranked in the world’s top 3%.

All eight New Zealand universities rank in the top 3% (500) of the QS World University Rankings 2023. Students are guaranteed a quality education that will not only provide them with industrial expertise but professional and soft skills that can be applied to their daily lives.

The eight universities in New Zealand are:

1. Auckland University of Technology

2. The University of Auckland

3. University of Canterbury

4. Lincoln University

5. Massey University

6. University of Otago

7. Victoria University of Wellington

8. The University of Waikato

Read on to learn more about the exciting journey that awaits you in New Zealand.

Feel at home in New Zealand – a welcoming and inclusive society 

New Zealand universities have gone to great lengths to ensure international students are comfortable and well taken care of when they decide to pursue a New Zealand academic programme.

International students feel at home in New Zealand universities with the extensive support available.

Proudly recognised as one of the world’s best modern universities, Auckland University of Technology has an extensive guide on preparing for the move abroad, including tips on immigration processes, what can and cannot be brought into the country, finding accommodation and estimating student living costs in New Zealand. The university’s international student services also assist students in seeking work and study options as well as immigration and career advice after the completion of studies.

Known for being New Zealand’s leading research university, The University of Auckland has created the AUSA Buddy Programme that helps international students ease into the Kiwi culture. New international students are paired with existing UOA students who share common interests or study majors. This programme differs from UniGuides, where students are taught life hacks and given specific information on how to settle down in Auckland and New Zealand as a whole.

Fulfilling student life – there’s something for everybody

Students can create meaningful connections by engaging in the array of clubs and societies in the universities.

Among the top priorities for New Zealand universities is to provide students with a holistic lifestyle experience, be it in education or co-curricular activities. 

The University of Otago encourages students to be passionate about the things that interest them as they pursue academic excellence. With over 160 clubs and societies such as the anime club, animal aquatic plant ecological society (AAPES), cancer core and more, students are able to experience an unmatched balance of rigour and fun during their time at university. Sports represents another great avenue for local and international students to mingle.

International students would be exposed to new university cultures and tradition in New Zealand.

Lincoln University is well known for its sports facilities and sporting achievements. Focusing on enhancing lives and growing the future by offering diverse learning options, Lincoln University also offers sports scholarships for aspiring athletes. Some of the well-known alumni of Lincoln University include members of the All Blacks, Black Ferns and Tall Ferns.

Victoria University of Wellington has an international student summer support programme that not only gives financial, mentoring and budgeting advice but also helps international students come up with activities to do during their summer break. This programme helps students meet new people, develop skills and prepare for the following year subjects through events, social activities such as picking your own berries, photo competitions and more.

Manaakitanga – Respecting, being generous and caring for the community.

New Zealanders take great pride in their Maori culture and are always eager to share it. Students will find ample opportunities to take part in cultural festivals and events across the eight universities.

Matariki is a special occasion in the New Zealand calendar which marks the start of the Maori New Year. Signified by the Matariki cluster of stars reappearing in our night sky, this is a time to reflect on the past year, celebrate the present, and plan for the year ahead.

University of Canterbury has exciting events happening all year round to keep their students entertained. There is also a formal celebration of Matariki, a festival marking the start of the Maori New Year. The week-long celebration is aimed at enhancing the mana Motuhake (self – determination/discipline) of Maori through a series of events, lessons and celebration that includes hakari (feast), mara kai (gardening for food) workshop, hikoi (walk), toiora (yoga) and a formal dinner.

The University of Waikato emphasises the importance of revitalising the Maori language and culture through events and festivals such as Te Wiki o Te Reo Maori and Kingitanga Day. Kingitanga Day, also known as the Maori King Movement, aims at uniting the Maori tribes across the land under a single sovereign. It is now a day where university staff and students come together to showcase a myriad of activities including performances that focus on the richness of the Maori tribes.

The Hongi or sharing of breath is the traditional Maori greeting where two people press their noses together.

Inspired by its Maori name Te Kunenga Ki Purehuroa which means learning is forever, from inception to infinity, Massey University is New Zealand’s national university. As a proud sponsor of Polyfest, the largest Pacific dance festival in the world. It is an important event that encourages indigenous students to pursue further studies while providing a platform to showcase Maori culture on stage.

Meet with our New Zealand Universities this August!

New Zealand is now open to visitors from visa-free countries including Malaysia. Immigration New Zealand has re-started the visa processing for international students as of the end of July, students can now start making applications for a smooth journey to New Zealand. New Zealand is looking forward to welcoming Malaysian students once again where they can once again enjoy the benefits of New Zealand education, while New Zealand can also enjoy the benefits the Malaysian students bring to New Zealand’s communities. 

New Zealand’s universities generally have two intakes in January and July, with some offering multiple intakes at different times of the year. Students will be able to discuss these intakes with the University representatives at The Star Education Fair on the 27 th and 28 th of August 2022 at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre from 11 am to 7pm.

Click here to find out more on how you can embark on the journey of pursuing a New Zealand tertiary qualification, and click here to stay up to date with the latest information on studying with New Zealand.