Study in New Zealand

Nestled away on the southwestern Pacific Ocean is the world’s 7th largest island country, New Zealand. Natives of the Island call it Aotearoa, meaning Land of the Long White Cloud, a reference to the cloud formations present in the region. In the past, the clouds helped navigators find the country.

The country’s geographical location makes it far away from most places, and this has given it a unique identity that can be seen in its society, culture and education system. In fact, the higher education system in New Zealand is one of the best in the world, ranking as 16th in the world according to QS system strength rankings.

In addition, all 8 of the country’s public universities feature in the top 500 universities in the world, according to QS. This is a further testament to the quality of higher education present in the country.

In this article, we will delve into the study experience of international students who study in New Zealand. You will also learn about what you need to do to search, match and apply to a suitable institution of higher learning in Maoriland. Topics to cover include:

• Study in New Zealand Statistics
• Why Study in New Zealand
• Top Universities to Study in New Zealand 2024
• Affordable Universities and Colleges in UAE 2024
• Scholarships in New Zealand
• Top In-Demand Careers in New Zealand 2024
• Top Courses to Study in New Zealand 2024
• Grading System in New Zealand
• Eligibility Criteria to Study in New Zealand
• Study in New Zealand Application Process
• Important Timelines for Study in New Zealand
• Cost of Living and Studying in New Zealand
• Student Life In New Zealand
• Best Cities to Study and Live in New Zealand
• Top Jobs in New Zealand for International Students
• Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand
• Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in New Zealand
• Conclusion

Study in New Zealand Statistics

Data from the Ministry of Education in New Zealand shows that 31,345 international students enrolled in universities in the country in only the first eight months of 2024. This number represents more enrollments than in all of 2023.

The big spike in numbers is attributed to a shifting preference of New Zealand as an alternate study destination to Australia. Why, you may wonder? Australia study visa success rates, though still high, are steadily dropping as the country’s visa rules become stricter and the Government seeks to cap international students after many years of high growth.

In New Zealand, there was a peak of international students in 2019 (33,830), followed by a slump in growth until recently in 2024. This is attributed to two main factors which include:

• The COVID pandemic and the subsequent slower reopening of its borders. New Zealand reopened its borders in 2022, which was later than any other English-speaking study destination.
• New Zealand prioritises sustainability in the education sector over unlimited growth as outlined in its International Education Strategy (2022-2030). The country aims to provide an excellent education experience to its international students.  

Here is a table showing the population trend of international students in New Zealand universities for the last decade.

Other interesting statistics about New Zealand include:

• The University of Auckland has the highest number of international students (8,470) in the country
• There are more female (17,210) than male (16,495) international students in the country, according to the latest statistics
• Popular fields of study in New Zealand include Management and Commerce (10,325) Society and Culture (6,360) Information Technology (4,500) Natural and Physical Sciences (4,390) and Engineering (3,240)
• Most International students originate from China (35%), India ((11%), Japan (10%), South Korea (5%) and Thailand (4%).
• According to a survey conducted by Education New Zealand, 8 out of 10 international students agree to having an overall positive student experience in the country.
• New Zealand’s GDP has increased by 6% due to the impact of working degree holders in the economy 
• New Zealand’s government plans to spend $19.1 billion on education in the financial year starting 2024

Why Study in New Zealand

There are many reasons why New Zealand is such a great option when choosing a study destination. For example:

• Female students may like the fact that New Zealand was the first country to grant women the right to vote
• Outdoor enthusiasts will like that the beaches in the country are never really far away (no more than 128 km in any direction)
• Movie lovers (particularly Lord of the Rings fans) will love living in the country that produced the epic trilogy
• Others will love the fact that New Zealand gets a spot in the top 5 least corrupt countries

While all these reasons are specific to individuals, here are other reasons that are general to most international students studying and living in Maoriland.

a) A thriving Student Community

While the international student population may have dipped during the COVID pandemic, all indications point to a return to normalcy with the country’s International Education Strategy of (2022-2030). In addition there are already more than 31,000 international students studying and living in different cities in Wellington, Auckland, and Christchurch.

In New Zealand, you’ll have an enriching experience interacting with fellow students from all over the world. 

b) High Quality Education

New Zealand consistently offers high-quality studies in its higher education system. It even ranks as one of the top 20 education systems in the world according to QS. This is attributed to the following factors:

• The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) manages quality control for education in the country ensuring that students get the most out of studying in New Zealand
• Class sizes are generally smaller ensuring a richer student-teacher interaction
• The country adopts a learning method that includes practical and knowledge based instruction

It is for these reasons that all of the country’s public institutions rank in the top 2% of the world (QS World University Rankings 2025).

c) Stunning Landscapes

Who doesn’t like a good view? In New Zealand, you have the advantage of studying in beautiful settings and environments that almost seem like they are from a movie. In fact some top films like Lord of the Rings, King Kong, Avatar and X-Men Origins: Wolverine were filmed in New Zealand.

In their free time international students can enjoy the beach, ferrying between the islands or sightseeing the Huka Falls, Milford Sound or the Waitomo Caves.  

d) New Zealand is Safe

New Zealand is the fourth safest country in the world according to the 2024 Global Peace Index meaning it experiences low crime rates. Only Iceland, Ireland and Austria rank higher than the country. This impressive feat can be seen among the locals who are a happy bunch and usually more than ready to welcome foreigners.

In New Zealand even the air is safe. The country is among seven nations in the world that meet the standard for safe pollution levels. The expansive nature that has remained untouched is one of the reasons for the country’s clean air.

e) Opportunity to Work During and After Your Studies

In New Zealand, you can remain in the country for up to 3 years on a post-study work visa after your studies. The visa allows you to work in the country provided you meet other requirements, such as having sufficient funds to sustain yourself in New Zealand during this period.

Top Universities to Study in New Zealand 2025

The following are the top 8 universities in New Zealand according to QS World University Rankings 2025.

Affordable Universities and Colleges in New Zealand 2025

International students can expect to pay up to NZ$40,000 ($22,446) per year for some undergraduate courses in New Zealand. Postgraduate courses can cost up to NZ$45,000 – ($25,253). Medicine and veterinary courses may have higher fees.

You can find even more budget-friendly prices (NZ$26,000 – NZ$34,000) from the following affordable universities and Institutes of Technology in New Zealand.

Scholarships in New Zealand

International students in New Zealand have access to the following scholarships:

• Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships – This is a government-sponsored scholarship (from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)) offered to students from developing countries. It covers funding for full-time undergraduate or postgraduate studies. It also covers other costs such as living expenses, insurance, and return airfares.
• The Reserve Bank of New Zealand University Scholarships – This scholarship is open to international students studying economics, accounting, mathematics, finance, and law who can legally work in New Zealand. Students get payments of NZ$3,000 in their first and second years and NZ$5,000 in their third year. After studying, you can get employment at the Reserve Bank. 
• University-specific scholarships – The issuance of these scholarships is at the discretion of the university. While most tertiary institutions will offer scholarships to international students, the requirements and eligibility may vary among different universities.
• You can also browse Craydel’s Special Offers page to access scholarships in New Zealand. For example, you can get up to 20% scholarship at Kaplan – Massey University College, New Zealand, when you apply through Craydel.

Top In-Demand Careers in New Zealand 2025

The government of New Zealand is constantly encouraging talent from overseas to work in the country. It’s doing this in an effort to fill the gaps in the workforce expected to be created by a thriving economy and an aging population. Approximately 15% of New Zealand’s population is over 65 years of age and, according to the Ministry of Social Development, by 2040, one in four New Zealanders will be over 65. 

The government estimates that it will need 40,000 new workers every year. About half of these workers are expected to be in retail, hospitality, business and construction.

In addition, New Zealand Immigration keeps a list of jobs (Green List roles) that are in demand in the country. If your career falls under the list, which currently includes about 200 roles, you can get residency in the country much more quickly. Here are five of these in-demand roles.

1. Engineering

The engineering industry has been facing a workforce shortage in New Zealand according to the Association of Consulting Engineers New Zealand (ACENZ). In 2021, the industry was expected to hire around 2,100 skilled workers across various engineering disciplines.

The engineering shortage is an ongoing problem which the government is trying to mitigate by listing several engineering careers in the green list. According to the list, the country needs more aeronautical, acoustic, chemical, civil, electrical, environmental, mechanical and telecommunications engineers.

With an annual salary that can go over NZ$100,000 for some engineering jobs, this makes it one of the top in demand careers in New Zealand.

2. IT Professionals

According to a publication by New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the country needs around 5,000 new IT professionals every year. The green list specifies the IT shortages, listing senior managerial positions as being in demand. For example, the country needs more Chief information Officers and ICT Managers.

These careers attract an annual salary of up to NZ$280,000, making them attractive and in demand in New Zealand. 

3. Construction Professionals

Though the construction sector in New Zealand employs around 250,000 people in New Zealand, it still experiences shortages in personnel. There are an expected 4,800 jobs every year up to 2028. This is according to a publication by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in New Zealand.

According to the green list, professionals needed in this sector include quantity surveyors, project builders, construction project managers, and building project managers.

Construction jobs also have attractive salaries which can go up to NZ$224,000 every year for construction managers. The shortage and attractive salaries makes construction careers one of the top in demand roles in New Zealand that international students can do after studies.

4. Health Sciences

New Zealand has a significant shortage of healthcare workers. Over 5,000 doctors and approximately 13,000 nurses are needed in the country’s health sector by the year 2032. This means that around 1,600 skilled health workers are needed every year in relation to the country’s current population growth.

Apart from doctors and nurses, the country also needs midwives, pharmacists, cardiac physiologists, sonographers, radiation therapists, dentists, and anesthetic technicians. All these professions are also included in the green list. As a result, around 6,300 overseas workers have been added to the country’s health system in 2023 according to New Zealand’s government.

In addition, careers in the health sector in New Zealand are high-paying. Qualified physicians have the potential to earn an annual salary of up to NZ$251,000. 

5. Auditors

According to the green list roles in New Zealand, there has been a shortage of auditors in both private and public sectors. Since 2021, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) revealed that there was a growing need of auditors in the country.

The shortage is further complicated by low student numbers taking the accounting course in tertiary universities. According to a report by the office of the auditor general in New Zealand, fewer students studied accounting in the country’s universities in 2021/22.

In addition, auditors in New Zealand receive an attractive annual salary that can reach up to NZ$184,000 for audit managers. This makes it one of the top in demand careers in New Zealand.

Top Courses to Study in New Zealand 2025

Popular areas of study in New Zealand include:

• Engineering and Technology
• Applied and Pure Sciences
• Business and Administrative Studies
• Health and Medicine
• Creative Arts and Design
• Computer and Mathematical Science

While the list above consists of general areas of study, the top courses to study in New Zealand for international students include: 

1. Nursing

With nearly 13,000 nurses needed in the country, the nursing course is a top choice of study for international students. The course prepares you to serve in the country’s healthcare system. It’s a 3 and 2-year programme for bachelor’s and master’s degrees, respectively.

After studies, international students register in the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) enabling them to practice in a variety of clinical settings.

2. Computer and Information Science

New Zealand needs about 5,000 new professionals in the Information Technology sector every year, among them computer and information science graduates. 

A major advantage of studying computer and information science is that you can get employment in a wide range of industries that deal with the exchange of information. For example, technology, telecommunications, healthcare, education, and finance.

3. Accounting

The accounting course prepares you for an in-demand career such as auditing, which is listed as a green list role in New Zealand. This means that an accounting course can be your gateway to getting a residence visa that allows you to stay indefinitely in the country

After studies, students are employed in companies like ASB Bank, Genesis, Westpac New Zealand, Deloitte, and Capgemini, earning salaries that can reach up to NZ$184,000.

4. Building Science

Building science is the study of creating safe and sustainable structures and premises. It also involves the study of how external influences like weather and materials affect construction of buildings.

International students who study building science learn a multidisciplinary field which covers architecture, chemistry, engineering, biology and chemistry. After studies, students gain employment in construction which is a major part of New Zealand’s economy contributing significantly to the GDP (around 6.3% in 2023). 

5. Arts and Design

The arts and creative sector is set to have 37,006 job openings from 2023 to 2028 as reported by New Zealand’s Ministry for Culture and Heritage. In addition, the sector grew (by 10%) more than the growth of the country’s economy (5.3%) in 2022.

This makes the art and design programme a top course to study in New Zealand in 2025. The programme involves the study of harnessing creative thinking and implementing it using design principles, colour, art, and artistic techniques.

After studies, international students can go on to become interior designers, UX and graphics designers, fashion designers, visual effects specialists, and even set designers in the country’s film industry.

Grading System in New Zealand

New Zealand grades in higher learning institutions are based on the letter grade system, with A+ being the highest grade and D- or, in some universities, E being the lowest. Grades A+, A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, and C- are all passing grades. Grades D+, D, and D- are failing grades.

Here is a table representation of the grading system, together with the corresponding grade points that count towards your overall GPA during graduation.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in New Zealand

If your dream is to study in New Zealand as an international student, you need to meet the following requirements to be considered for a place in a New Zealand university:

• You must have completed studies equivalent to New Zealand year 13 to be accepted in an undergraduate course. For postgraduate students, you need to have a degree relevant to what you wish to study for a Master’s. If you only completed 12 years of education in your home country, then you can apply for a Foundation program
• You must have the minimum qualification required for your course. Different universities have their own cut-off ranges.
• You must have valid academic documents. These include certificates and transcripts.
• You need to provide proof of proficiency in the English language if it’s not your first language. Acceptable English language examinations include IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge English qualifications. For example, an acceptable IELTS score for undergraduates is a minimum score of 6.0, and for postgraduates is 6.5.
• You need a letter of recommendation vouching for you to be an international student abroad.
• Many universities require that you provide a statement of purpose.

Study in New Zealand Application Process

At Craydel, we understand the challenges of searching for a university, finding the right match, and applying for the programme of your choice. With this in mind, we provide a step-by-step process to make sure that your application sails through all stages easily. Here is how we simplify the process for you. 

1. Choosing a Suitable Course and Academic Institution

Right from the time you contact Craydel, we are actively looking for the right programme and university for you. You will get useful feedback from our expert counselors as well as our Career Match Assessment, which is backed by industry-leading technology and data in the higher education space.

2. Applying to Your Dream University

Once you have settled on your programme and university, it’s time to apply. It’s important to note that New Zealand doesn’t have a centralised application system, so all international students apply directly to the university.

In this step, your Craydel counselor will advise you on what is needed to make the application. They will make sure you have all the necessary documents and any special requirements that the school may require. 

3. Receiving an Offer Of Place

Once the admission team in the university goes over your documents and is satisfied, they will issue you with an offer of place which you need to confirm. It serves as an official confirmation of your place in a New Zealand university. It is also one of the requirements needed to make your student visa application process.

4. Paying Tuition Fee

The next step is paying your tuition fee using the university accounts. Upon receiving your payment, the university sends you an international receipt of payment or a statement of account.

You are required to provide the receipt of payment together with the offer of place document to Immigration New Zealand to begin the next step of visa application.  

5. Applying for a New Zealand Study Visa

When applying for a New Zealand student visa, you’ll need to fulfill the following requirements:

• You must have  NZ$750 or $454, which covers the cost of the student Visa for upto 4 years
• You need to provide the following documents:
  • An offer letter from an approved higher education institution in New Zealand
  • A passport photo
  • A valid passport document, which should still be valid for an extra 3 months after you finish your studies
  • You may be asked to prove you are of good character by providing a police certificate
  • You may also be asked for a chest x-ray medical report
• You need to have proof of funds that you can sustain yourself while studying in the country. New Zealand Immigration requires you to have NZ$20,000 to cover your living costs for every year of study.
• You must fulfill the following financial conditions:
  • You need to provide evidence that you have enough money to pay your first-year tuition and also show how you will pay for subsequent years of your study. It’s important to note that New Zealand is the only country with such requirements, as almost all other countries will only ask for proof of funds to cover first-year studies only
  • You need to provide proof that you have paid your tuition fee. However, New Zealand Immigration may allow you to pay the fee after your visa is approved (Approval in Principle). If you prefer this method, you must prove that you have the money to pay your tuition fee when applying for the visa.
• You need medical and travel insurance valid for the length of your stay in the country
• You need to provide evidence that you have enough money to pay for your return ticket out of New Zealand

6. Preparing for Enrollment

Upon receipt of the student visa, you are now ready to begin an awesome student journey in Maori land. You’ll get to experience a world-class education from your chosen institution as well as exploring and immersing yourself in a vibrant culture.

Your preparations typically begin with booking your flights, and sorting out your accommodation in New Zealand.

You will also need to submit a Travel Declaration 24 hours before your planned date of travel. It’s a requirement by New Zealand customs for everyone traveling into the country. If you’re thinking of it as another hurdle that you need to pass, don’t worry. It’s pretty much straightforward, and you can do it online or from the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) app.

Important Timelines for Study in New Zealand

As an international student, knowing the dates and deadlines to submit your application is as important as the application itself. In addition, applying early may give you benefits such as:

• Reducing anxiety and uncertainty with your application
• It also gives you more time to review your application as well as visa documents
• You will also get quick admissions since universities tend to prioritize early applications
• It will give you more time to plan for your travel and accommodation

With that in mind, you may wonder; what are the intakes available for international students? When should you apply? And how long will you study in your chosen programme? Discussed below are the important timelines for study in New Zealand.

Popular Intakes for Study in New Zealand

While intakes vary by institution. The most popular intakes for international students in New Zealand include:

• February Intake
• July Intake

However, depending on the school or programme of study, international students are also admitted in November. 

When Should You Apply?

For timely applications, international students planning to enroll in New Zealand universities apply in the following dates:

• February Intake – Applications start in May and close in late November of the previous year
• July Intake – Applications start in May of the previous year and close in late April of the intake year.

Compared to other popular study destinations, such as the UK and Australia, applications tend to close earlier in New Zealand, given the limited spots available and study visa timelines. So it is very important to apply early to secure your spot!

Course Duration for Study in New Zealand

One advantage of studying in New Zealand is that most Bachelors take only 3 years (360 credits) to complete, unlike the conventional 4 years in other study destinations. This ultimately helps you to save on tuition costs.

Most Master’s programmes take 2 years (240 credits) but some can take 1 year (120 credits) or 18 months (180 credits).

Cost of Living and Studying in New Zealand

Living costs in New Zealand may vary depending on your lifestyle and the part of New Zealand you choose to live in. For example, living in a small town like Hamilton is cheaper than in a major city like Wellington.

Most international students spend between NZ$20,000 to NZ$27,000 in a year. This translates to approximately NZ$1,700 to NZ$2,250 per month, which is about US$945 to 1251 per month.

Here is a typical breakdown of living costs for international students in New Zealand.

When applying for a student visa, New Zealand immigration requires that you provide proof of having at least NZ$20,000 (approximately US$ 11,122) to cover your living costs for the first year of study. 

International students spend between NZ$20,000 to NZ$45,000 (approximately US$ 11,122 to US$ 25,025) on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Health-related courses like medicine may attract higher fees.

Student Life In New Zealand

The student life in New Zealand offers more than academics. A combination of great scenery, interesting sites, and a unique culture adds to the quality of life for international students in the island country. Students thrive in the country in the following ways: 

The New Zealand Outdoors

The landscape in New Zealand is mind-blowing and almost mythical – it’s no wonder film makers rush to the country to produce epic films. Students can enjoy the outdoors away from class with plenty of activities like hiking, biking, skiing, surfing, kayaking, and boating.

Students can take part in these activities to unwind and turn New Zealand into their playground, especially if they haven’t tried them before.

Accommodation

While it can be nerve-racking to set up and acclimatise in a new country, residing in New Zealand is a breeze. Most international students feel at home due to the abundance of housing in the country.

The most popular form of accommodation in New Zealand is Flats, also known as flatshares. You may choose to live alone or share with a roommate. Weekly costs for this type of accommodation starts from NZ$256. Other forms of housing include:

• Halls of Residence, which are usually near campus. They cost about NZ$484 per week.
• Homestays involve living with a New Zealand family in their home. You’ll have the benefit of living in a furnished room and get daily meals. It’s a great option, especially if you want to experience the country’s culture up close.

Working as a Student

Most international students usually wonder whether they can utilize their free or spare time to work in New Zealand. The answer is yes, it’s possible!

If you’re enrolled full-time in a programme that takes more than one year, you can work up to 20 hours per week during school sessions and up to 40 hours per week during school breaks. However, you’ll need to have an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number to be able to work in the country as an international student.

Best Cities to Study and Live in New Zealand

Apart from the appeal of studying in a vibrant urban setting, New Zealand cities offer so much more. Whether it’s adventure you’re seeking, modern amenities, affordable housing, secure living spaces, or friendly neighbours, New Zealand cities offer all this for international students.

While there are several interesting cities in New Zealand where students can study and live, the following are five of the best cities for students. 

Wellington

Wellington is the capital of New Zealand and the southernmost capital in the world. It has been the administrative centre of the country since 1865. As of the latest 2023 census in New Zealand, Wellington city has a population of 202,689 people.

Nestled between the sea and the hills, locals enjoy the city’s compact layout and stunning views. Here is why international students may like living and studying in the city.

a) The city is home to top institutions

Wellington hosts institutions of excellence, such as Massey University, which you can enroll in through Craydel. The university is a good choice as it boasts a job placement rate of 84% for its students after campus. Students also get employed in top institutions such as Deloitte, Air New Zealand, and Fonterra.

Other notable institutions include the Victoria University of Wellington, which, according to the QS World University Rankings, is the fifth-best university in New Zealand. 

b) Arts and culture is a major part of the city

If you’re an art student, Wellington will appeal to you. Several galleries, such as the City Gallery Wellington (Te Whare Toi), the Kura Gallery, Peter McLeavey Gallery, and the Avid Gallery Ltd, exhibit contemporary artwork from top artists in New Zealand and the world.

In addition, the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) is a good place to discover and appreciate the Aotearoa culture.  

c) Wellington is New Zealand’s culinary capital

International students have an easy time settling in the city because Wellington caters to the cuisine needs of people from all over the world. In fact, the city has more restaurants per capita than New York City. There are over 400 eateries in the city, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.

d) The city is strategically located

Wellington is centrally located in the country. In fact, it is known as the gateway between the north and south islands of New Zealand. This makes the city a strategic place from which you can access all other parts of the country.

As an International student, you can take time away from your studies to quench your adventurous spirit and visit other cities or the stunning New Zealand countryside.  

e) There are plenty of activities to do in the city

Wellington is vibrant and exciting for foreigners as there are festivals throughout the year. You’ll get to experience carnivals like the CubaDupa Festival, Māori Matariki Festival, the Japan Festival, Newtown Festival Street Fair, and the World of Wearable Arts.

In addition to enjoying the carnivals, you can visit other interesting places, like Zealandia’s wildlife sanctuary, the prime ministerial office, which resembles a beehive or enjoy a ride on the Wellington cable car.  

The city’s location near the ocean also makes it attractive for beach activities. For example, Oriental Bay Beach is a popular place to hang out with friends. Other interesting activities to do, especially if you have never done them, include kayaking, diving, sailing, or even surfing using the wind blowing from the Cook’s Strait.

Auckland

Auckland is a city in the northern island of New Zealand. It’s the country’s largest city, with a population of around 1.66 million people. International students like living and studying in Auckland for the following reasons.

a) Auckland is a student city

New Zealand’s largest urban area qualifies as a student city because it ranks especially highly in terms of student mix, desirability, and employer activity. According to QS Best Student Cities 2025, Auckland ranks 24th out of 150 cities on the list.  

b) Great universities and higher education system

In Auckland, you have the advantage of studying in top-tier universities like Massey University. You can apply to study at Massey University, Auckland campus, through Craydel and enjoy a seamless application process.

Other notable universities include the University of Auckland and Auckland University Technology, which rank as number 1 and 8 in New Zealand respectively.

c) The city has plenty of opportunities for employment

Auckland is often referred to as the epicentre of trade and business in New Zealand. This means there is a high concentration of international businesses like Uber, KPMG, Google, and Deloitte.

The thriving business environment in the city creates plenty of jobs for international students during and after their studies.

d) Auckland is among the most liveable cities

According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability index of most liveable cities Auckland, ranks as the 9th best city to live in the world. This also makes it the most liveable city in New Zealand based on factors like healthcare, environment, stability, culture, and infrastructure.

e) The city has a vibrant culture

The accommodative Auckland metropolis hosts more than 200 groups from different cultures. This is evident in the city’s art, events, and music scene, which hosts a variety of live performances from both local and international acts. In fact, Auckland has been named a UNESCO City of Music since 2017 for its rich musical culture and for being a global music hub.

In addition, Auckland’s mix of cultures creates a melting pot of cuisines and an amazing food scene. As an international student, you will get to enjoy local delicacies as well as food from all over the world on a student-friendly budget.

Top Jobs in New Zealand for International Students

There are plenty of job opportunities in New Zealand for international students due to favourable working policies with their student visas. For example, you are allowed to work up to 20 hours during school sessions and up to 40 hours during school breaks provided you are doing a full-time course that is at least 2 years.

In addition, New Zealand’s economy is advanced and therefore, able to absorb part-time students. However, if you have difficulty or experience challenges during your job search you can always seek assistance from the student support services in your university.

Here are the jobs that you can do on and off campus in New Zealand.

On-Campus Jobs in New Zealand

On campus roles are great for building lasting networks within the college or university in which you are enrolled. They can also be a good way to familiarise yourself with the culture of the university. Most of these roles are mainly academic in nature, they include:

• Library assistant
• Research assistant
• Student representative
• Laboratory technician

Off-Campus Jobs in New Zealand

Off-campus jobs are located outside your institution and may require a bit of commuting. Most of these jobs pay more and are more varied compared to on campus jobs. They include:

• Customer care representative
• Call centre agent
• Sales associate
• Supermarket assistant
• Restaurant waiters/waitress
• Seasonal fruit picker
• Barista
• Web and Mobile developers
• Call centre customer service representatives
• Digital marketing specialists

Post-Study Work Visa in New Zealand

In New Zealand, it is possible to stay and work in the country for up to 3 years on a Post Study Work Visa. Your level of qualification determines the length of your visa.

For example, students who obtain a Master’s degree (Level 9) can get a 3-year post-study visa. Those who graduate with a Level 7 or 8 qualification (primarily postgraduate diplomas, postgraduate certificates and Bachelor’s degrees) can get a post-study work visa that is the same duration as the length of their study. So a Bachelor’s student who completes a 3-year degree can get a post-study work visa of up to 3 years. 

However, students who receive a Level 6 or below qualification (diplomas and certificates) can only get post-study work visas if their qualification is on the “Qualifications Eligible for Post Study Work Visa” list and their job is related to what they studied. These jobs are currently limited to specific fields of engineering, automotive, telecom, construction, teaching and dairy farming. 

More details on this visa include:

• It costs NZ$700
• You can only apply for this visa once, and you must be in good health, of good character and have enough funds to sustain yourself in New Zealand.

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in New Zealand

As an international student, the path to permanent residency begins by getting a job. After 2 years of working for an accredited employer, you are eligible to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa. However, it is important to note that getting work in Tier 1 roles or Green List roles that are in demand in the country accords you with PR immediately.

With a permanent resident visa, you have the following rights:

• Staying in New Zealand indefinitely for work and study
• You can include your dependents when making your visa application
• You are also free to travel outside New Zealand and re-enter as you wish

The main requirements for making the application include being of good character and having met all the conditions of your current visa. In addition, you also have to prove your commitment to living in the country by spending at least two years there, investing in the country, having a New Zealand tax residence status or having a business there.

Conclusion

New Zealand may be tucked away in the corner of the universe, but with Craydel, it is only a step away as your dream study destination. Here at Craydel, we will help you realize Nau Mai, the Maori phrase meaning welcome, so that you settle in the Island country quickly and efficiently. 

Our expert counselors will also guide you through the search match and application process and continue with you till you land at AKL (Auckland International Airport), or at the airports in Wellington, Christchurch or Queenstown, ready to begin studies in your dream university.