More students, more opportunity

More students, more opportunity: Why New Zealand's Higher Education sector is positioned for growth.

Recent enrolment figures from our Universities paint an encouraging picture for New Zealand's tertiary education sector.

Victoria University of Wellington has reported a substantial 50% increase in international students enrolled to start their studies, highlighting strong global demand for a New Zealand education.

Alongside growth in international enrolments, the university is also seeing increased student interest in arts, politics, environmental studies, and teaching. This resurgence suggests students are once again engaging deeply with disciplines that shape culture, society, public policy, and future generations.

For those working in higher education, these trends should be viewed as more than just positive enrolment statistics. They represent a strong signal about the future workforce needs of the sector.

As student numbers grow, universities inevitably require additional academic and professional staff to support them. More students mean more lecturers, professors, tutors, researchers, student support specialists, and administrative professionals. Growth in enrolments today often translates into recruitment activity tomorrow.

This is particularly relevant as institutions continue to navigate a highly competitive global talent market. Universities that begin workforce planning early will be best positioned to secure the academics and education professionals they need to sustain quality teaching and research outcomes.

The opportunity extends beyond active job seekers. Many of the most sought-after academics are not actively looking for their next role. They are engaged in teaching, research, and leadership positions elsewhere. Reaching this passive talent pool requires a strategic approach to recruitment and employer branding that goes beyond simply posting a vacancy and hoping the right candidates apply.

New Zealand is currently well-positioned on the global stage. With growing international student demand, strong research institutions, an attractive lifestyle offering, and increasing investment in education, the country presents compelling opportunities for academics considering their long-term careers.

For universities and education employers, the message is clear: growth is returning, competition for talent will follow, and the institutions that invest in proactive recruitment strategies today will be best placed to meet the demands of tomorrow.

The latest figures from Victoria University are certainly positive news for Wellington, but they may also be an early indicator of broader momentum across New Zealand's tertiary sector. As enrolments rise and student confidence returns, so too does the need to attract and retain the educators who will shape the next generation of graduates.

The future of higher education is built on the right people. Planning for that future starts now.

Article written by Sian Phillips