New Zealand 8 Universities Performed Well In QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025

Study in New Zealand: All eight New Zealand universities performed well in the third edition of the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability.

The recently released 2025 QS World University Rankings: Sustainability highlighted that all eight universities of New Zealand are functioning responsibly when it comes to sustainability. These rankings assess the university's ability to handle the challenges related to environmental, social and governance sustainability.

Ben Sowter, QS Vice President, said, “New Zealand’s higher education sector has long been a world leader in sustainability and this year’s results show yet again that the country punches above its weight, surpassing many of its international competitors. However, this year’s results also show that universities in other countries are improving their sustainability efforts, with New Zealand’s institutions advised to enhance their offers in areas of governance, employability and outcomes and health and wellbeing.”

Jessica Turner, CEO of QS said, “The QS Sustainability Rankings provide a critical benchmarking tool for universities to evaluate their progress across areas such as knowledge exchange, equality, environmental impact, and governance. As more institutions engage with this framework, the increasing competitiveness of the ranking reflects the growing commitment globally to advancing sustainability in higher education.”

"New Zealand came out top country overall based on the average score of our universities for Environmental Impact and Governance, in addition to the Equality and Environmental Education lenses (among countries with at least eight universities ranked). This is good news for universities as they look to attract students to their campuses especially as QS Destination: Australia and New Zealand report 2024, found that 63% of students interested in studying in New Zealand say environmental sustainability was very or extremely important," says the NZ government statement.

University of Auckland At No. 1 In NZ In QS Sustainability Rankings 2025

The University of Auckland has again performed extremely well in the QS Sustainability Rankings as it is positioned at number 1 in New Zealand. It is also one of the top institutes globally for sustainability.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater said, "I and the University’s executive committee are incredibly proud of Waipapa Taumata Rau’s continued excellence in the QS Sustainability Rankings. Our long-term and ingrained efforts in environmental and social impact, coupled with our strong governance, underscore our dedication to sustainability. While the competition is intensifying, with more universities making significant strides, our early and ongoing commitment to sustainability ensures we remain at the forefront."

“As the landscape of sustainability in higher education evolves, the University of Auckland remains committed to innovative approaches. Our proactive stance on sustainability will continue to drive the University’s mission to foster a sustainable future for all," said the Vice-Chancellor.

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