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26 June 2025

7 minutes read

Best Place to Study in New Zealand for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
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Dirghayu Kaushik

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Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

15 August 2024

7 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Best place to study in New Zealand depends on city affordability, job opportunities, and student-friendly culture—not just university rankings.
  • Indian students can choose from top cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Hamilton, offering quality education and diverse academic programs.
  • Scholarships and expert profile-building with Ambitio make studying in New Zealand more accessible and achievable.

Over 30,000 international students, including thousands of Indian students, choose New Zealand every year, but most still struggle with one thing: which city truly offers the best study abroad experience? While brochures highlight world university rankings and picturesque campuses, the real challenge lies in balancing the cost of living, job opportunities, and student-friendly culture.

If you’re planning to study in New Zealand, this guide cuts through the fluff to help you find the best place to study in New Zealand, based on what actually matters.

Why New Zealand is a Top Study Destination for Indian Students?

New Zealand is one of the best places to study abroad, attracting thousands of Indian students each year. Known for its safe environment, world university rankings, and practical learning approach, it offers a perfect mix of quality education and lifestyle.

best place to study in new zealand

Whether you choose to study in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, or the capital city of Wellington, each city in New Zealand brings something unique for international students planning to study abroad in New Zealand. Here’s why New Zealand is a top study destination for Indian students:

  1. Globally Ranked Universities
    Top universities in New Zealand like the University of Auckland, University of Otago, University of Canterbury, and Victoria University of Wellington are among the best universities in the world for international students.
  2. Affordable Living and Tuition
    Compared to other popular study abroad destinations, the cost of living in New Zealand and cost of studying in New Zealand are relatively affordable, especially for Indian students.
  3. Student-Friendly Cities
    Cities to study in New Zealand like Dunedin, Hamilton, Wellington, and Christchurch, are considered some of the best cities for students due to their supportive communities and vibrant lifestyles.
  4. Welcoming Policies and Scholarships
    The New Zealand government and institutions offer numerous scholarships for international students and a transparent visa process, making it easier for students to study and live in New Zealand.
  5. Diverse Study Abroad Programs
    With a wide range of programs across public universities and renowned universities, students can choose from fields like engineering, health sciences, business, and more, enhancing their study abroad experience.

Best Cities in New Zealand to Study as an Indian Student

New Zealand offers more than just top-ranked universities; it offers student-friendly cities that combine affordability, career opportunities, and lifestyle.

best place to study in new zealand

If you’re an Indian student looking to study abroad, these cities represent the best place to study in New Zealand based on academics, culture, and future prospects.

Auckland: The Academic and Cultural Hub

As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland is home to the prestigious University of Auckland, one of the best universities in New Zealand. A vibrant hub for international students, it offers many work and study programs in New Zealand, great part-time work options, and access to global industries, perfect for students who want to study and gain experience in a big city.

Wellington: Ideal for Arts, Tech, and Innovation

Known as New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington is a favorite among students who want a balance of culture, creativity, and tech. With top universities and institutes like Victoria University of Wellington, it’s also a UNESCO Creative City of Literature, making it an ideal place to study, especially for those in media, arts, and politics.

Christchurch: Affordable and Peaceful for Indian Students

As the fourth largest city in New Zealand, Christchurch offers a peaceful yet modern environment. With lower living expenses in New Zealand, it’s a popular choice for international students to study affordably. The University of Canterbury is among the top universities for international students, especially for engineering and science programs.

Dunedin: A Student-Friendly University Town

Dunedin is home to the oldest university in New Zealand, the University of Otago, and offers a close-knit, student-driven community. Known as one of the best student cities in New Zealand, it’s perfect for students looking for strong academic support, reasonable costs, and access to nature and cultural events.

Hamilton: Home to Top-Ranked Institutions

Hamilton is home to the University of Waikato, one of the top universities for international students and a leader in research and innovation. For students planning to study in New Zealand, especially in tech, business, or education, Hamilton offers excellent faculty, a safe environment, and options for students to live and study comfortably.

From bustling big cities to quiet university towns, these are the best cities in New Zealand for international students, each offering something different but equally valuable. No matter which city of New Zealand you choose, you’ll find the best place to study in New Zealand that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

Factors That Make a City the Best Place to Study in New Zealand

Choosing the best place to study in New Zealand isn’t just about rankings; it’s about finding a city that supports your academic goals, lifestyle, and career path.

Whether you want to study in Wellington, Hamilton, or another student-friendly city, these factors matter.

  1. Presence of Top-Ranked Institutions
    Cities with top New Zealand universities and institutions in New Zealand offer a more enriching academic environment. From the capital city of New Zealand to smaller hubs, many have made it to the list of top global schools.
  2. Student-Friendly Lifestyle
    A good city allows international students each year to live affordably, commute easily, and find communities of support. Cities like Wellington and Hamilton rank high for this.
  3. Career and Internship Opportunities
    Many students can explore part-time jobs or internships while they study. New Zealand provides post-study work options, especially in tech, business, and healthcare sectors.
  4. Cultural and Social Diversity
    Cities that attract many international students create a welcoming environment for study abroad students, helping them adjust and thrive both academically and socially.
  5. Simplified Visa and Student Support
    Cities with robust infrastructure and support from the New Zealand government make it easier for student in New Zealand to get a visa in New Zealand and succeed.

10 Top Universities in New Zealand for Indian Students

If you want to study in New Zealand, choosing the right university is key to a successful experience. With world-class academics and strong student support, these universities are consistently ranked as the best place to study in New Zealand, especially for international students.

Here’s a quick list of new and popular study destinations that offer excellent study opportunities and are trusted among international students:

University NameCityHighlights
University of AucklandAucklandTop-ranked among universities to study in New Zealand, strong research focus
University of OtagoDunedinNew Zealand’s oldest university, known for health sciences and vibrant student life
University of CanterburyChristchurchEngineering and science excellence, strong global ties
Victoria University of WellingtonWellingtonGreat for humanities, law, and business; Wellington is New Zealand’s capital city
University of WaikatoStudy in HamiltonRanked high among international students, ideal for tech and education
Massey UniversityMultiple CitiesFlexible programs allowing students to study on-campus or online
Lincoln UniversityLincolnFocused on agriculture and environment, unique among international students based
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)AucklandKnown for innovation, industry connections, and practical learning
Eastern Institute of TechnologyNapierSmaller classes, personal mentoring, great for applied sciences
Southern Institute of TechnologyInvercargillOffers excellent study options with affordable fees and zero-tuition schemes

These New Zealand study destinations help students can easily adjust, explore, and thrive. If you wish to study in an environment that values both academics and experience, choose to study abroad at any of these institutions, each a contender for the best place to study in New Zealand.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students

Financing your education can be challenging, but New Zealand universities and government bodies offer several scholarships to ease the burden.

These scholarships make the best place to study in New Zealand even more accessible for Indian students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.

Scholarship NameOffered ByEligibilityCoverage
New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA)Education New Zealand + NZ UniversitiesIndian students applying for UG/PG programsPartial tuition fees
University of Auckland International Student Excellence ScholarshipUniversity of AucklandHigh-achieving international studentsUp to NZD 10,000
Vice-Chancellor’s International Excellence ScholarshipUniversity of WaikatoAcademic merit-based, Indian applicants welcomeUp to NZD 15,000
Otago International ScholarshipsUniversity of OtagoMaster’s and doctoral studentsPartial tuition + stipend
Manaaki New Zealand ScholarshipsNew Zealand GovernmentOutstanding academic and leadership potentialFull tuition, living, and travel costs
Lincoln University International ScholarshipsLincoln UniversityAll international studentsUp to NZD 5,000
AUT International ScholarshipsAuckland University of TechnologyUG and PG students with strong academicsVaries by program
University of Canterbury International First-Year ScholarshipUniversity of CanterburyFirst-year undergraduate studentsUp to NZD 15,000
Massey University Doctoral ScholarshipMassey UniversityPhD candidatesTuition + annual stipend
Victoria Tongarewa ScholarshipsVictoria University of WellingtonInternational students for UG/PG studyPartial fee waiver

These funding options make it easier to access the best place to study in New Zealand without financial strain.

Conclusion 

Finding the best place to study in New Zealand isn’t just about rankings; it’s about discovering where you thrive academically, culturally, and professionally. From student-friendly cities to globally ranked universities, New Zealand offers it all, but making the right choice takes guidance.

That’s where Ambitio steps in. We’re not just another study abroad consultancy; we specialize in building your profile, mapping your goals, and unlocking the doors to top universities.

Ready to turn your New Zealand dream into a solid plan? Start your journey with Ambitio Elite today, because your future deserves expert navigation. 

FAQs

What’s the climate like for international students in New Zealand?

With a temperate climate, New Zealand generally offers comfortable weather conditions, though packing for both summer and winter is advisable.

Can students work after their studies in New Zealand?

Absolutely. New Zealand extends post-study work visas, providing students with opportunities to garner work experience in their study domain.

How reliable is the public transport in New Zealand?

New Zealand’s public transport system, encompassing buses, trains, and ferries, is both efficient and reliable, ensuring students can commute with ease.

What is the best place to study in New Zealand for international students?

Auckland is widely considered the best place to study in New Zealand, thanks to its top-ranked universities and vibrant student life.

Which city offers the best combination of education and lifestyle in New Zealand?

Auckland stands out as the best place to study in New Zealand, blending high-quality education with urban conveniences and outdoor adventures.

What are the top universities in the best place to study in New Zealand?

The University of Auckland, University of Otago, and Victoria University of Wellington are among the top choices in the best place to study in New Zealand.

Are there other cities besides Auckland that are considered the best place to study in New Zealand?

Yes, Christchurch, Wellington, Dunedin, and Hamilton are also popular choices for the best place to study in New Zealand due to their quality institutions and student-friendly environments.

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