Education

NZ public schools are free for citizens and permanent residents (and qualifying visa holders). Structure: Primary (Years 1–6), Intermediate (Years 7–8), Secondary (Years 9–13). NCEA is the national secondary qualification — widely recognised internationally.

Auckland has the best selection of international schools. Wellington options are solid but smaller. IB Diploma and Cambridge A-Levels are available for families wanting internationally portable qualifications.

All 8 NZ universities are internationally ranked. Domestic fees are heavily subsidised (~NZD $7,000–$10,000/year). International students pay NZD $28,000–$60,000+/year depending on programme. Graduates in-demand fields qualify for post-study work visas.

Early childhood education (ECE) in NZ is high quality and partially government-funded from age 3. Choosing where to live based on school zones is the most important decision for expat families with children.