List of Top Universities in New Zealand (2025)

Last Updated on December 13, 2024

With just eight universities gracing its shores, New Zealand packs an educational punch that is at par with other study-abroad destinations. These prestigious institutions have caught the eye of students worldwide, especially those from India’s illustrious lands. One Kiwi university has soared into the prestigious top 100 global rankings, which further attracts Indian students. 

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The remaining seven scatter across various bands- however, they provide fantastic academic opportunities that provide a blend of pragmatic training and theoretical engagement. In this blog post, let’s explore a list of the best universities in New Zealand in 2024. 

Top Universities in New Zealand 2024

Let’s dive right into the best universities that New Zealand has to offer with the help of the following table: 

Read: Study In New Zealand for Indian Students: Eligibility, Courses, Universities, and Cost of Study

Best Universities in New Zealand

Now that we have tabulated the best universities, let’s explore them in detail. 

University of Auckland

The University of Auckland, which started its operation in 1883, is known as the best university in New Zealand for getting jobs after graduation. The university has faculties such as arts faculty, business school, science faculty, creative arts faculty and industries; medical faculty and health sciences; education faculty and social work departments along with faculties like engineering or law etcetera as well as Liggins Institute plus Auckland Bioengineering Institute among many other research institutes/centers that are part of it.

University of Otago 

By legislation of the Otago Provincial Council, the University of Otago was founded in 1869. Graduate, PhD, and postgraduate programs in a wide range of subjects are available at the University of Otago, including finance, economics, entrepreneurship, business, management, marketing, medicine, pharmacy, law, arts, social sciences, chemistry, physics, mathematics, zoology, botany, and computer science. 

Victoria University of Wellington 

Tracing its roots to 1897, Victoria University of Wellington was born from the foresight of legislators, blossoming into an academic jewel in New Zealand’s capital. This esteemed institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, delivered by over 1,000 experienced educators.

Victoria University is home to an advanced academic model, with nearly 40 renowned research institutes and centres. These facilities provide students unparalleled opportunities to fuse theory with essential pragmatic learning that prepares them for a competitive professional journey that lies ahead. 

University of Canterbury

As the second institution in Aotearoa, New Zealand, the institution of Canterbury was established in 1873. This institution is divided into five colleges: the College of Education, Health and Human Development, Science, Engineering, and Arts, and the College of Business and Law. Over 35 research institutes are also part of it. The University of Canterbury provides a range of degree programs in the fields of the arts, business, technology, fine arts, sports, music, law, and health sciences. 

Massey University 

Massey University is unique among universities in New Zealand because it offers research-led teaching and research training across three campuses: Auckland, Palmerston North, and Wellington. Massey offers a broad range of scholarships for undergraduate as well as postgraduate students, which are now open for application. Students have access to a variety of academic support services and theoretical aspects of their respective subject matters at Massey University, designed to assist students in enhancing their scholarly skills. 

University of Waikato 

The University of Waikato, nestled in New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, invites you to embark on an unforgettable academic journey. Established in 1964, this prestigious institution offers a variety of possibilities across 7 faculties, 1 school, and 1 college. From arts to engineering, psychology to biotechnology, the university’s 135 subjects invoke passion and help students flourish. Study in New Zealand, where knowledge embraces diversity, and students are welcomed with a sense of warmth and inclusivity. 

Lincoln University

Lincoln University is a highly-ranked public institution for higher education and research; it boasts three faculties offering a range of career-focused diplomas, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral-level degree programs. Additionally, Lincoln University houses the University Studies and English Language Division: this division provides two teaching programs in the English language. Moreover, the university offers an array of specialisations for students to choose from- be it commerce, architecture, transportation, winemaking, or social sciences- Lincoln University has it all. 

Auckland University of Technology (AUT  University)

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a highly respected public university that furhers the cause for higher education and research in various fields. Established in 2000, this acclaimed public institution has risen to the forefront, providing holistic academic education to students from all walks of life. With a diverse academic framework comprising five faculties and 17 specialised schools, AUT offers a breadth of knowledge, catering to students who wish to conquer it all through the powerful medium of education. 

Students get to explore over 250 dynamic programs spanning art, design, economics, science, business, education, engineering, mathematics, computer science, clinical studies, creative technologies, communication studies, languages, psychology, nursing, tourism, hospitality, law, public health, social science, and sports. All in all AUT is a fantastic choice for students who wish to get access to holistic education. 

Check: New Zealand Student Visa Processing Time

Popular Universities in New Zealand

New Zealand’s top universities in 2024 include those that were already listed. Additionally, applicants can look out well-known universities here:

Wilmington Institute of Technology (WilsonTec) Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)

Study up on the following universities.  

Wellington Institute of Technology (WelTec)

WelTec offers quality tertiary education and training programs that equip students with the skills needed to pursue rewarding careers in industry and commerce. NZQA accredits WelTec certificates, diplomas, degrees, and graduate diplomas. WelTec also offers City and Guilds certifications and other qualifications that are highly regarded not just in New Zealand but globally as well.

Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT)

The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), established in 1975, is a government-run college in New Zealand. It offers over 130 academic programs for both undergraduates and postgraduates. EIT provides degrees in diverse fields such as agriculture, winemaking, computing, art and design, business skills, fashion sense, hospitality expertise, music mastery – the list goes on! Additionally,disciplines like health sciences,nursing,social sciences,and creative studies are also available at EIT to foster creativity The institution also offers short courses, certificate and diploma programs across various disciplines.

Conclusion 

Universities in New Zealand are famous for their high-quality education and cultural mix. These well-known universities range from the University of Auckland in Auckland’s lively city life to University of Otago in calm Waikato’s fields. When you start your exciting university journey, Admissify will be there with its unmatched services. Profile building, financial aid, scholarship opportunities, university shortlisting and career counseling – Admissify is here to help you begin your study abroad journey without any hassles.

FAQs

What is the best university in New Zealand?

The best university in New Zealand is the University of Auckland. Ranking 87 in the QS World Rankings, the university provides fantastic academic opportunities to students. 

What is the cost of studying in New Zealand?

The average cost of studying in New Zealand can range anywhere from $13,000 to $25,000, depending on your education level and program. The cost of living varies according to the city you live in and your lifestyle. 

Is IELTS mandatory to study in New Zealand? 

Many universities in New Zealand require English proficiency tests like PTE, IELTS or TOEFL. Hence, it is always recommended that you showcase your proficiency in the English language formally when you start applying. 

4. What are the highest-paying jobs in New Zealand? 

The highest-paying jobs in New Zealand include C-suite executives, air pilots, surgeons, judges, engineering managers, investment bankers, law firm partners, mining engineers, IT architects, and corporate general managers. 

Rishabh Jain

Rishabh Jain is an educational consultant, certified trainer and career coach, who has trained and counselled over 5000 students to find career clarity, build a strong profile and develop the necessary skills to get admission into their dream college. Rishabh works towards a vision of creating a strong impact through the field of education and has been collaborating with startups, foundations, organizations and institutes over the past 7 years to bring about a change through counselling and upskilling the youth.