Why New Zealand?
Choose New Zealand for world-class education in a safe, welcoming country. Experience stunning landscapes, work opportunities, and high quality of life while you study.
Peace and harmony
- In the 2025 Global Peace Index survey (PDF) (opens in a new tab), New Zealand is ranked the third most peaceful country in the world, in terms of societal safety and security.
- The Global Gender Gap Report 2025 (opens in a new tab) hails us as the fifth best in the world for gender pay parity between men and women.
A bastion of democracy
- New Zealand is a very democratic country. We are ranked second best in the world in the EIU Democracy Index 2024 (opens in a new tab), which looks at considerations such as free and fair elections and influence of foreign powers.
- We also get a score of 99 out of 100 for political rights and civil liberties in the Freedom in the World Index 2026 (opens in a new tab).
- Transparency International says we are top of the class (opens in a new tab) (joint first with Denmark) in terms of being corruption free.
- As at February 2026, the Index of Economic Freedom (opens in a new tab) - which covers everything from property rights to financial freedom - ranks New Zealand at 12 out of 184 countries.
- Our justice system is highly regarded worldwide. In 2025, the World Justice Project Rule of Law Index (opens in a new tab) ranked us fifth best in the world.
Innovation - it's in our DNA
Maybe it’s because we live on an island, or maybe it's our culture of free thought, but innovation is undoubtedly ingrained in the New Zealand way of life.
- According to the World Bank (opens in a new tab), in 2026 New Zealand performs strongly in the area of Financial Services—both in absolute terms and when compared to all measured economies. With 84 points out of 100.
- Our internet (affordability and access) is ranked second best in the world (opens in a new tab), just behind Sweden (Inclusive Internet Index 2020).
We're a happy bunch
- The Legatum Prosperity Index 2023 (opens in a new tab) ranks New Zealand tenth out of 167 countries for overall prosperity and wellbeing. The index looks at a range of variables such as natural environment, governance, social capital, personal freedom, education, health, business environment, economic quality, and living conditions.
- The World Happiness Report 2025 (opens in a new tab) ranks us as the eleventh most cheerful place on the planet.
- The Human Development Index 2022 (opens in a new tab) ranks New Zealand at 17th place in terms of life expectancy, education and income.
Climate
The cities of Hamilton and Tauranga boast a mild climate with warm summers (December to February); average temperatures range from 21 – 26°C.
Our winters (June to August) are sometimes described as chilly, but rarely freezing, with temperatures from 5 – 14°C.
Explore New Zealand
New Zealand is a small yet mighty country located in the South Pacific.
With a population of just 5.34 million people, we are an uncrowded country, allowing you plenty of space to explore our beautiful landscapes and immerse yourself in our unique culture.
Hamilton and Tauranga
The University of Waikato has campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga. Hamilton is New Zealand's fourth largest and fastest growing cities, vibrant and multi-cultural it is where our main campus is located.
Waikato Bike Trails
Follow New Zealand's longest river through native bush, exotic forest, remote farmland, boardwalks, streams and suspension bridges.
Hamilton Art Gallery
A stunning visual art space which offers a unique gallery and retail experience.
Hamilton Night-Life
Hamilton's vibrant restaurant and nightlife is making a name for itself with award-winning cafes and restaurants serving all styles and origins of cuisine.
Stadium Waikato
FMG Stadium Waikato is the spiritual home of rugby in Hamilton, with a crowd capacity of around 25,000
Waikato River Trails
Follow New Zealand's longest river through native bush, exotic forest, remote farmland, boardwalks, streams and suspension bridges.
Hamilton Lake
Hamilton Lake Domain has a long history as one of Hamilton’s premiere parks and is within walking distance from the CBD.
Hobbiton
Situated in the heart of New Zealand, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire, as featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Casabella Lane
Comprises 20 retailers in a boutique mediterranean style lane opening to a tiled and paved courtyard with water features.
Daily life in Hamilton is uncomplicated - grocery stores are easily accessible, locals are friendly and there are heaps of activities on offer to keep you busy! Our city hosts an array of award-winning dining experiences, bars and cafes.
One of the biggest perks to living in Hamilton is its proximity to other scenic and adventure-filled destinations. If you're an adrenaline lover, check out the wild west coast of Raglan (opens in a new tab), one of the best surf beaches in the world, plough down the ski fields of Mt Ruapehu or go black water rafting through the Waitomo Caves. The list doesn't stop there; go bungy jumping, sky diving, jet boating and caving to name a few!
If you prefer the more relaxed lifestyle, there are many beautiful and scenic river walks (opens in a new tab) or cycleways alongside the Waikato River, have a stroll around the award-winning Hamilton Gardens (opens in a new tab) or experience the magical Hobbiton Movie Set (opens in a new tab)! Hamilton also boasts many retail stores for you to browse around, visit an exhibition at Waikato Museum or have a soak and unwind at Te Aroha Mineral Spas. (opens in a new tab)