From the Philippines to New Zealand: Building Bridges in Education
In a Glance:
- The Philippines and New Zealand have a strong relationship, and education is high on the agenda
- New Zealand is taking steps to welcome more Filipino students in 2025 and the coming years
- Koru’s a trusted partner helping students realise their career and life goals through New Zealand education
Growing Connections between the Philippines and New Zealand
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr during his official visit earlier this year. The leaders expressed their interest in establishing a Philippine – New Zealand Comprehensive Partnership by 2026 to mark the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations.
People-to-people connections between New Zealand and the Philippines have grown significantly over the last few years. The Philippines is New Zealand’s second-largest source of migrants, and the Filipino population in New Zealand has increased by 47% since 2018. There are about 108,000 Filipinos in New Zealand, based on the 2023 census.
In addition to reviewing policies facilitating the recruitment of Filipino workers for jobs in New Zealand, the countries are increasing cooperation in the area of education. Work is being done in relation to the comparability of bachelor degrees in the Philippines and New Zealand to improve the mobility of students, workers and migrants.
New Zealand Welcomes Filipino Students
In partnership with Education New Zealand (ENZ), the New Zealand Embassy Manila recently hosted a reception to discuss plans for the education sector in 2025.
Stacey Kwant, Deputy Head of Mission for the New Zealand Embassy Manila, and Chortip Pramoolpol of Education New Zealand remarked on the value Filipino students bring to New Zealand and expressed their excitement for the years to come. Representatives from Te Pukenga, New Zealand’s largest vocational education provider, and key student visa specialists from the Philippines, including Koru’s Licensed Immigration Adviser, Raphaela Amat, were present. Discussions revolved around the concrete steps New Zealand is taking to attract Filipino students, such as supporting local events and approving study grants.
The positive reception of international students in New Zealand starkly contrasts with the changing attitudes in countries like Canada and Australia, which actively restrict the inflow of international students. In a recent survey by Education New Zealand, 77% of New Zealanders said they would like to see the same number or more international students.
Today 82 percent of New Zealanders agree that international students contribute to our cultural diversity, with 79 percent feeling they help local students learn about other cultures and ways of life, as well as contributing to local businesses during their studies. Amanda Malu, ENZ’s Chief Executive
Koru’s Role in Boosting Student Success
We were honoured to be among the select group of student visa specialists invited to this exclusive event. This recognition solidifies our position as an expert and trusted partner in guiding Filipinos through the often-complicated processes of studying New Zealand.
The feedback we provide ENZ and education providers helps improve the processes, course offerings and outcomes for international students. We also help students understand the New Zealand education and visa systems so their study is purposeful and contributes directly to their career and life goals.
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