Best universities in New Zealand 2025

New Zealand Top Universities Rankings 2025

New Zealand's higher education system has always been highly regarded in the world, especially public universities have been in the top 500 in the world according to the QS World University Rankings for many years.

Let's explore the top universities in New Zealand with IDP and choose the one that best suits your abilities and desires. This will be useful information to help you equip yourself with the knowledge you need to plan a great study abroad journey in New Zealand.

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 centres 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 completely choose for themselves different groups to learn and exchange with, building more good 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 owns 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, postgraduate 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 Kiwi country.

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, as well as 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) boasts 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, and 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,....

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 the world's leading training quality.

8. Auckland University of Technology (AUT)

Located in the vibrant city of Auckland, the 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 own 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 health,... The university adopts a modern teaching method, combining theory and practice and encouraging students to participate in practical projects and problem-solving so that students can develop themselves holistically.

Experience studying abroad at New Zealand's top schools with IDP!

New Zealand is proud to be a world leader in the Future Education Index, making it an ideal destination for international students with an education system that is highly regarded in global rankings. If you want to build the right study abroad route, as well as find the most economical solution to study in New Zealand, let an IDP consultant connect you with a free study abroad consultation service.

You will be advised to choose the right major and course, given support in hunting for scholarships to study in New Zealand, prepare study abroad documents, and guide you to apply for a New Zealand student visa with a success rate of over 90%.

Hurry up to IDP or contact the IDP office online for advice on the fastest journey to study in New Zealand!

Free study abroad consultation hotline: 19006955

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