Why study in Wellington?
Known for our collaborative, connected community of learners and achievers, studying in Wellington means you’ll have access to world-class education institutes
Surrounded by a stunning harbour and green hills, Wellington ranks as one of the most liveable cities in the world for good reason.
With a population of 496,000, the Wellington region is well-connected literally and figuratively – located at the bottom of the North Island it’s easily accessible and, as a compact city, it’s easy to get around.
Being the capital of New Zealand also means we’re well-connected in terms of collaboration between education providers, research institutions, the business community and Government.
It’s a city where people love to live, study and work and that’s a fact - Wellingtonians top the charts when it comes to quality of life.
The latest Nielsen Quality of Life survey shows 89 percent of those questioned perceive the Wellington region as a great place to live, and 89 percent rate their overall quality of life as “very good”.
Highly-educated
Home to New Zealand’s Government, which makes up 17 percent of our workforce, and boasting many thriving sectors, it’s no surprise that Wellingtonians are New Zealand’s most educated and creative.
We have 38 percent of residents with tertiary qualifications, compared to 18 percent nationally, and we’re also a forward-thinking bunch, with 44 percent of our workforce making a living in knowledge-intensive industries, compared to about 30 percent nationally.
Our tertiary sector is top-class - our three universities Victoria, Otago and Massey, are all ranked in the top 3 percent in the world, and each is also ranked in the top 100 in the world for one or more of its specialist areas.
We also have two institutes of technology and numerous private tertiary institutions that specialise in subjects such as culinary skills, performing arts, art and design and technology.
You can even gain valuable experience in New Zealand workplaces through internships, work experience and graduate programmes.
There are many language schools to help improve your English while studying here too.
Take a study break
Reward yourself with a well-deserved study break and enjoy the fresh air walking, running or biking on one of our incredible tracks. Wellington has more than 200 trails around the region, some just minutes from the Wellington city centre which are safe for you to explore.
Or you can spend sunny afternoons along the Wellington waterfront, visit nearby beaches, browse the treasure trove of shops, or pop into one of the hundreds of cafés and restaurants.
Known for our vibrant arts and entertainment scene, make the most of many music and cultural festivals, take in a show or live music or swing by an array of local bars, clubs and cocktail lounges.
Safe and friendly city
In Wellington you’ll come across some of the most welcoming and accepting people you’ll ever meet.
In fact our region prides itself on ensuring everyone in our community, with its 80 nationalities represented, feel safe and at home.
We’re actually one of the safest cities to study, live and work – the 2019 safe cities report ranked us 18th in the world for overall safety. The same report listed the capital city as fifth in the world for personal safety.
Cost of living
Wellington is considered one of the more affordable international cities to live and study.
Rent in Wellington varies depending on the type of room you rent and where in the city or region you choose to live. There are a range of accommodation options for students, including boarding houses or hostels for school students, university-run student halls, inner-city apartments, townhouses tucked away in quiet coastal suburbs, or even options to board with New Zealand families.
Paying for your study will be one of your biggest bills - the university or education provider you enrol with will give you an idea of course costs. You will also need to think about other study-related costs, such as textbooks, lab equipment, stationery or any other specialist equipment you may need.
On the upside, being a student in Wellington means great everyday deals from local businesses, cafés, restaurants, and on public transport, shows and movies. There are local fruit and veg markets and lots of free stuff to see and do.