Kiwis and Classrooms: How Foreign Students are Boosting New Zealand’s Economy by NZ$4.5 Billion
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The latest figures paint an exceptionally sunny picture for New Zealand’s international education sector, which is proving to be far more than just a provider of degrees. In a huge win for the nation, the sector has been credited with injecting a colossal NZ$4.5 billion into the economy over the year ending September 2025. This positions it firmly among the country’s top ten exports.
This remarkable financial upswing—a notable jump from NZ$3.6 billion just months prior—isn’t just about tuition fees. It’s the daily reality of international students spending money in high street shops, catching buses, and eating out at local cafés and restaurants, directly supporting communities and creating jobs across the country.
Between January and August 2025, over 83,500 international students chose a New Zealand education, a robust 14% increase on the year before. Education New Zealand’s Chief Executive, Amanda Malu, emphasises that this growth is carefully managed. “We are not chasing numbers at any cost,” she explains. Instead, the focus is on a “sustainable, balanced growth” that truly benefits local regions and strengthens the economy without compromising the high-quality, welcoming experience New Zealand is known for.
Crucially, the feeling is mutual. A 2025 survey revealed that public backing for international students remains exceptionally high, with 77% of New Zealanders supporting the current or increased number of students coming to study. This widespread public endorsement is vital, suggesting a strong societal recognition that these students bring far more than just money—they bring new perspectives, cultural richness, and valuable global connections.
This success story isn’t a fluke; it’s the result of a concerted effort, outlined in the government’s ‘Going for Growth’ plan. Looking ahead, the ambitious target is to almost double the sector’s export value to NZ$7.2 billion by 2034.
Beyond the headlines and the impressive balance sheet, this growth signifies a profound human connection. Every international student choosing Aotearoa (New Zealand) for their education represents a lifelong tie between two nations, enriching the cultural fabric of Kiwi towns and universities. New Zealand’s educational bounce-back proves that by valuing quality, community, and a welcoming environment, the nation can secure its standing as a world-leading study destination for years to come.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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