Why Study in Whanganui?

Our city is big enough to offer plenty to do, and small enough to provide a sense of community. It’s easy and safe for students to get around town on foot or bike and our affordable cost-of-living means less stress and more time to focus.

Future-Focused Learning

Our education providers are focused on their students’ futures and provide curriculum and opportunities that will lead to fulfilling careers. Small class sizes mean students have personalised attention and access to resources, and our affordable, friendly town provides students all they need to make the most of their time here.

Connected Students

Students in Whanganui are well connected to the rest of the country and the world. A central location means it’s within an easy drive of most North Island cities and short, daily flights connect us to Auckland International Airport. Whanganui is internationally known as a ‘smart city’ and students benefit from our reliable, ultra-fast Internet speeds.

A Welcoming Community

It’s easy to make friends in our warm and diverse community. Small class sizes mean you’ll get to build relationships with your classmates, teachers and tutors, and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in volunteer work, sports teams, classes and clubs that will put you in contact with other like-minded people.

Graduate Opportunities

Whanganui’s education options at both the secondary and tertiary level are intended to provide graduates the skills and experience they need to move into a satisfying career. Many of our courses, especially in tech and trades, have a high rate of job placement due to industry demand and close relationships between education providers and employers.

Our thriving and diverse economy offers plenty of opportunities for practical work to supplement classroom learning. Local companies also offer apprenticeships and cadetships, giving youth another option for learning and a guaranteed start to their careers.

Work Ready Students

Recent tertiary graduates benefit from the services of employment brokers like 100% SWEET who work closely with Whanganui students, schools, tertiary providers and employers to match youth with opportunities.

They also deliver the Work Ready Passport, which is designed to help secondary school students develop the soft skills employers are looking for.

Youth-Friendly Employers

Youth Employment Success is an online platform that matches youth (up to age 27) with work experiences and helps them explore career pathways.

Local youth-friendly employers have signed up to the platform to offer experiences like CV checks, mock interviews, desk shadowing and internships to young people. Young people get to experience the career opportunities available in Whanganui and employers have the opportunity to engage with the next generation of workers.