Spotlight on… Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington

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The PIE sat down with Victoria University of Wellington to discuss the future of international education, New Zealand’s growing global appeal and what sets studying in the country’s capital apart.

by Amy Rutherford

October 7 2026

3 Min Read

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Photo: Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington

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1. Tell us about your university and its role within New Zealand’s higher education landscape.

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington is New Zealand’s globally ranked capital city university, located in the heart of Wellington, the country’s political, cultural, and innovation centre. With a strong reputation for research, teaching excellence, and public engagement, we play an important role in connecting students with government, industry, and community partners.

We rank in the top 100 universities in the world for AI, English Language and Literature, Library and Information Management, Linguistics, and Law (QS Rankings, Shanghai Rankings, 2026). As New Zealand’s top-ranked university for research intensity (PBRF, 2018), we are committed to developing graduates who can help address local, national, and global challenges while advancing knowledge that delivers real-world impact.

2. What sets your university apart from others?

Our location is one of our greatest strengths. Being based in New Zealand’s capital city gives our students unparalleled access to decision-makers, government agencies, international organisations, creative industries, and leading employers. We combine world-class academic performance with a highly connected, real-world learning environment. Students benefit from strong industry engagement, research-led teaching, and opportunities to build practical skills and professional networks while studying in one of the world’s most liveable cities.

3. What makes New Zealand such an attractive destination for international students?

New Zealand offers an exceptional combination of academic quality, safety, lifestyle, and career opportunities. Students choose New Zealand because they can receive a globally respected education in a welcoming, multicultural society while enjoying an outstanding quality of life.

The country is known for its natural beauty, innovative outlook, and strong focus on student wellbeing. International students also value the opportunity to gain practical experience, develop global career skills, and study in an environment that encourages independent thinking and creativity.

Being based in New Zealand’s capital city gives our students unparalleled access to decision-makers, government agencies, international organisations, creative industries, and leading employers

4. How do you see the higher education sector in New Zealand evolving over the next five years?

We expect New Zealand’s higher education sector to become increasingly focused on international engagement, innovation, and student outcomes. Universities will continue strengthening partnerships with industry, expanding flexible learning opportunities, and responding to global workforce needs.

There will also be greater emphasis on employability, transnational education, and delivering a more connected student experience. New Zealand is well positioned to grow its international education sector through its reputation for quality, safety, and authentic student experiences, while remaining competitive in a rapidly changing global market.

5. Are there particular markets or student segments you’re looking to grow in the near future?

Alongside maintaining strong relationships in established markets, particularly in Asia, we are focused on broadening our international student population and growing enrolments in areas where there is strong alignment between student demand and our academic strengths. We are also increasingly interested in students seeking career-focused experiences, postgraduate qualifications, and opportunities that combine academic study with employability outcomes, leadership development, and global citizenship skills.

6. Outside of work, what’s one thing a visitor to New Zealand shouldn’t miss?

Spending time exploring New Zealand’s beautiful natural environment. Whether it’s walking along a rugged coastline, hiking through native forests, or experiencing our national parks, New Zealand offers a sense of space and connection to nature that is difficult to find elsewhere. Visitors often arrive for the scenery, but they leave remembering the warmth of the people and the uniquely relaxed, outdoors-focused lifestyle that makes New Zealand so special.

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Amy Rutherford

Amy joined Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in April 2025 as Manutaki—Director, International. Prior to her role at the University, she spent over a decade with Education New Zealand Manapou ki te Ao, most recently as Regional Director for the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe, and she also served as New Zealand’s Counsellor (Education) at the Embassy of New Zealand in Washington, D.C.

Her leadership experience includes time as a Board Member of the International Education Council (IEC) in the US, supporting advocacy and collaboration across the international education sector. Amy has also directed New Zealand programs for the Institute for Study Abroad, and held a range of international marketing and admissions roles at the University of Otago while she completed her master's degree there.

With almost 20 years of experience spanning government, university, and non-profit sectors, Amy’s work reflects her belief in the transformative power of internationalisation and exchange.

View all articles by Amy

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