New Zealand polytechnics, some of which are named Institutes of Technology, are state-funded and provide education and training at tertiary levels ranging from introductory studies through to full degree programmes. Disciplines cover areas such as Agriculture, Art and Design, Building and Construction, Business, Engineering, Fishing and Marine Studies, Forestry, Science and Technology, and Tourism and Hospitality and within each discipline hundreds of different subjects.

With 25 polytechnics and institutes of technology nationwide, the total sector has approximately 46,650 full time students and 94,201 enrolments (full time and part time). Some are located in regional centres while others are based in New Zealand's main cities.

Polytechnics and institutes of technology are efficient tertiary providers offering programmes which can be both academically and vocationally focused. Due to their active engagement with industry, employers and government agencies they provide programmes which are of a high academic standard and are relevant to the rapidly changing workforce on a global basis. Programmes are recognised by the New Zealand Government and to ensure the quality of their programmes the polytechnics and institutes of technology work closely with the New Zealand Qualifications Authority.

International Links

New Zealand polytechnics and institutes of technology have had long-standing relationships with many overseas governments through the provision of high quality training programmes designed for specific needs. Students from South-East Asia, North Asia, Africa and the Pacific have been training in New Zealand polytechnics and institutes of technology for many years, either funded by overseas governments or by the New Zealand government through aid programmes. In recent years, the polytechnics and institutes of technology have established comprehensive international student programmes as the numbers of full-fee paying international students have increased rapidly. They also have articulation agreements with colleges in other countries which means papers relating to New Zealand qualifications can be done at home. Today New Zealand polytechnics and institutes of technology provide programmes for individual students, government agencies and private businesses for people from all parts of the world.

State of the art facilities, pleasant surroundings and exceptional student support systems.Other advantages are smaller classes, flexible programmes which cater for a variety of needs, wide choice of programmes both for subjects and levels, quality programmes relevant to the needs of industry , business and commerce; easy access to tutors, programmes which staircase into higher learning and international student support facilities including dedicated International Offices.