New Zealand — Public sector
8 public universities in New Zealand in 2026
The public universities in New Zealand offer accessible education to as many students as possible, with recognised programs and a strong tradition of academic research.
8 public universities
New Zealand has public institutions offering a wide range of programs, often with government-regulated fees and a strong tradition of academic research.
8 ranked in international rankings
University of Auckland
Public
40,225 NZD/yr
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University of Otago
Public
39,690 NZD/yr
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University of Canterbury
New Zealand's second-oldest university, based in Christchurch and renowned for top-ranked engineering, science and law programmes.
Civil EngineeringSoftware Engineering+41
Public
34,110 NZD/yr
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University of Waikato
A leading New Zealand public university in Hamilton, known for its business school, sciences and strong commitment to Maori studies and research.
Environmental SciencesMathematics+31
Public
35,000 NZD/yr
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Lincoln University
Public
35,000 NZD/yr
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Massey University
Public
35,250 NZD/yr
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Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
Public
39,600 NZD/yr
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Victoria University of Wellington
A leading public university in Wellington, New Zealand's capital, renowned for law, political science and the creative arts.
Civil EngineeringNursing+50
Public
35,362 NZD/yr
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