It's good news for international students as New Zealand prepares to welcome more overseas students. A recent survey conducted by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, or ENZ, presents a badge of honor for New Zealand for hosting international students.

Strong support for International students

According to its annual 2024 research, in which the views of 1,100 respondents were surveyed, over 77% of New Zealanders believe that the country should host the same or a greater number of international students.

This year marked the first time the survey included a question about whether respondents wanted to see more or fewer international students in New Zealand. Of those surveyed, 41% expressed a desire to see an increase in international students, while 36% supported maintaining current numbers. Only 11% indicated they would prefer fewer students, reflecting a positive attitude towards their presence.

Commenting on the findings, ENZ’s Chief Executive, Amanda Malu, said the results reinforced the growing support and understanding of the contribution of international students to local communities and the country. “Since 2018, we have seen increasing support for the contribution international students make in key areas,” said Ms. Malu.

“Today 82 percent of New Zealanders agree that international students contribute to our cultural diversity, with 79 percent feeling they help local students learn about other cultures and ways of life, as well as contributing to local businesses during their studies.”

Positive perceptions have remained consistent over the years, with 72% of respondents in 2024 acknowledging the benefits international students bring to New Zealand—a sentiment that aligns closely with figures from 2023 (75%) and 2022 (73%).

Ms. Malu added, “This level of support is enormously pleasing. It tells us we can continue to steadily grow the number of international students in New Zealand and that they will continue to receive a warm welcome in our communities.”