Annual survey shows continuing strong support for international students in New Zealand

More than three quarters of 1,100 New Zealanders in the annual 2024 survey conducted by Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao (ENZ) believe the country should host the same or more international students in New Zealand.

This was the key finding of research, completed in October, to measure New Zealanders’ views on the contribution and challenges of international students studying in New Zealand.

For the first time this year, the annual survey asked respondents if they wanted to see more or fewer international students in the country. Forty-one (41) percent of those surveyed said they would like to see more, with another 36 percent supporting the same number of students. Only 11 percent indicated they would like to see fewer international students arrive. 

Positive perceptions of international students also continued to track strongly with 72 percent saying the students benefit New Zealand. This followed similar levels of support of 75 percent in 2023 and 73 percent in 2022.

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.”

“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.” 

Read the report here: 2024 Survey of the Public Perceptions of International Education | ENZ IntelliLab

 
For further information:

Justin Barnett | Director of Communications, Education New Zealand 

justin.barnett@enz.govt.nz

  +64 21 875 132