Best universities in New Zealand 2025

New Zealand, a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, is also home to a world-class education system that attracts students from around the globe. With its safe and welcoming environment, innovative teaching methods, and globally recognised qualifications, New Zealand offers a unique and enriching study abroad experience. 

When you choose to study in New Zealand, you're not just investing in your education; you're investing in your future. New Zealand's universities are renowned for their high academic standards and strong research focus, ensuring you receive a quality education that's valued by employers worldwide. All eight of its universities consistently rank in global university rankings, such as the QS World University Rankings, reflecting their commitment to academic excellence and research impact. 

But it's not just about hitting the books. New Zealand offers a vibrant and diverse cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the Maori culture, explore the country's rich history, and enjoy the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of its communities. With stunning natural beauty, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches, New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. 

When it comes to career prospects, New Zealand offers promising opportunities for graduates. The country has a stable economy with a need for skilled professionals in various sectors. Plus, with a post-study work visa, you can gain valuable work experience in New Zealand after graduation, potentially paving the way for a long-term career or even permanent residency. 

Starting an academic journey in New Zealand 

Starting your academic journey in New Zealand can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With its world-class universities, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming culture, New Zealand offers a unique and enriching environment for international students. 

Globally recognised ranking system 

For those who are seeking to pursue your foundation, undergraduate, or postgraduate pathways in New Zealand, university rankings can provide a sense of whether the institution is right for you. 

Ranking providers like the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings and Times Higher Education World (THE) University Rankings are globally recognized and often used by students as part of their research before applying to study abroad. 

Each ranking system uses its own methodology to assess universities, providing a unique perspective on academic excellence and institutional strengths. 

With that, we’ve compiled the top universities in New Zealand for 2025 below, with data from the latest QS World University Rankings and THE World University Rankings. To find out how to use these rankings to your advantage, you can get free guidance from an education advisor. 

QS top universities in New Zealand 2025 

The QS World University Rankings are among the most widely referenced and respected ranking systems globally. They assess universities in New Zealand based on various factors, including academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations per faculty, faculty/student ratio, and international student and faculty ratios. The QS rankings provide a comprehensive view of a university's strengths and its standing in the global academic community. 

THE top universities in New Zealand 2025 

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings (THE) provides another valuable perspective on university performance. They assess universities in New Zealand based on their core missions of teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook. The rankings offer a comprehensive and balanced view of a university's strengths across various areas. 

  If you’re ready to chase your goals, tap the button below for a free counseling session, and we’ll help you get to a top institution. 

  More study in New Zealand information  

• Why Study in New Zealand 

• New Zealand Scholarships 

• New Zealand Student Visa Requirements 

1. University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is New Zealand's largest and most prestigious university, located in the vibrant city of Auckland. The university was founded in 1883 and is one of the world's leading universities, ranked 65th according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The University of Auckland attracts more than 40,000 students with a diverse and dynamic educational environment. The university offers more than 500 diverse training programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, so you can choose the field you love.

In addition, the University of Auckland stands out with more than 60 research centers and institutes, demonstrating its ability to provide in-depth education in the journey to build global knowledge. Moreover, with around 300 active study clubs, students in Auckland can choose for themselves different groups to learn and exchange, building better international relationships.

2. The University of Otago

The University of Otago is located in the beautiful city of Dunedin, New Zealand's first university, with a history of more than 150 years. Known for its excellent quality of education and diverse learning environment, Otago attracts students from all over the world.

More specifically, the University of Otago is also excellently in the top 1% of universities in the world according to QS Ranking 2025.

With more than 200 diverse programs, from bachelor's to doctorate, Otago meets the learning needs of students in a wide range of fields. In addition, Otago also has a team of knowledgeable and experienced lecturers, as well as modern and advanced facilities. This place creates optimal conditions for students to participate in scientific research activities, develop creative thinking, and spark a passion for learning.

3 . University of Waikato

The University of Waikato, based in the city of Hamilton, is one of New Zealand's largest and most prestigious public universities.

Ranked 235th in the QS Ranking 2025, the University of Waikato is in the top 1.1% of the world's leading universities, providing a rich training program that is constantly innovating to meet the needs of human resources in the new era.

Home to more than 10,000 students, Waikato offers a diverse and exciting learning environment that attracts students in New Zealand and around the world. Waikato University offers a wide range of programs from bachelor's to postgraduate studies, in a wide range of fields. With an experienced and dedicated faculty, Waikato is committed to providing students with a high-quality education, with an emphasis on developing critical thinking, practical skills and adaptability to the international working environment.

4. Massey University

Massey University is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in New Zealand. With more than 36,000 students, including more than 4,000 international students. It boasts a diverse, dynamic learning environment and excellent educational quality.

In 2025, Massey is in the top 1% of universities in the world according to QS Ranking, affirming its position on the international map. Massey offers more than 40 academic disciplines, catering to the diverse academic needs of students. You can choose to study directly at 3 campuses in the North Island of New Zealand or flexibly through distance learning.

In addition, Massey University also focuses on supporting students through 7 student associations, ensuring the best learning experience, and supporting and organizing a variety of extracurricular activities to help students develop comprehensively.

5. Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) is a public research university based in Wellington, New Zealand. Founded in 1897, it is one of the top universities in New Zealand.

With a long history and outstanding achievements, VUW is consistently ranked highly in international university rankings. According to QS Ranking 2025, VUW is honored to be ranked 244th, affirming its position as one of the leading universities in the field of education.

Victoria of Wellington has a campus located in the heart of Wellington, giving students access to national institutions, the business and scientific communities, and vibrant arts and cultural activities.

With an excellent learning environment, a multicultural community, and comprehensive support services, Victoria University of Wellington promises to provide international students with a dream learning journey.

6. University of Canterbury (UC)

Located in New Zealand's beautiful city of Christchurch, the University of Canterbury (UC) is the second-oldest university in the country and one of the world's leading universities. With a history of more than 150 years, UC has established itself in global education, attracting students from all over the world to study and research.

UC is ranked 261st in the world according to QS Ranking 2025, being in the top 1.1% of top universities, proving itself to be a prestigious and quality university.

UC owns modern and advanced facilities, including libraries, laboratories, classrooms,... creating optimal conditions for students' learning and research. Studying at Canterbury, students not only have access to high-quality facilities but also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of exciting extracurricular activities. From professional clubs and societies to sports, arts, and cultural activities, UC has always made it possible for students to develop holistically, both intellectually and physically.

7. University of Lincoln

With a history of more than 140 years of establishment and development, as one of the oldest public universities in New Zealand, Lincoln University is proud of its extensive experience in training students in general and international students in particular.

The campus is 58 hectares, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and modern facilities, creating an ideal environment for experiential learning and comprehensive student skill development.

The university offers a wide range of academic programs in many fields, such as business, economics, engineering, finance, communication, management, social sciences, tourism, transportation, computers, etc.

Lincoln University is just about a 20-minute drive from central Christchurch, making it easy to reach many of New Zealand's tourist attractions, scenic spots, and major entertainment areas. In addition, Christchurch is also the economic center of the South Island of New Zealand, with many developed industries such as agriculture, tourism, and high technology... creating favorable conditions for students to find jobs after graduation.

In 2024, Lincoln University is ranked 371st according to the QS World University Rankings, affirming its position as well of the world's leading training quality.

8. Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Located in the vibrant city of Auckland, Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is one of New Zealand's largest universities, renowned for its excellent quality of education and innovative learning environment.

Established in 1895, AUT is proud to have more than 130 years of training experience, providing a diverse curriculum to meet the needs of students in the new era. In 2024, AUT will be ranked in the top 1.2% of universities in the world (according to QS World University Rankings).

Auckland University of Technology offers more than 250 undergraduate to doctoral programs in a number of fields such as business, engineering, computer science, creative design, arts and communications, social sciences, education, health, and... The university adopts a modern teaching method, combining theory and practice, encouraging students to participate in practical projects and problem-solving so that students can develop themselves holistically.

Find the right New Zealand University for you at IDP

If New Zealand is your dream destination, IDP will be the ideal companion on your journey to conquer knowledge at the top universities in the Kiwi country. Boasting an extensive network of partners across prestigious universities in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, and Hamilton, IDP is confident in helping you discover the school that best suits your aspirations and abilities.

With more than 55 years of experience in study abroad counseling, IDP has successfully connected thousands of Vietnamese students to study at suitable universities in leading countries, such as the UK, Australia, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and Ireland. In addition to assisting you in finding the right school, IDP's team of consultants is always ready to support you throughout your study abroad journey, from completing your application form and hunting for New Zealand scholarships to finding accommodation and registering for the IELTS test.

Are you ready to pursue your journey to study in New Zealand? Contact the IDP 19006955 hotline today to get expert advice on the right study path for you.