New Zealand is one of the most idyllic countries in the world, famous for being the filming location of the Lord of the Rings films. In addition, New Zealand has some of the most reputable universities in the world, with engineering being one of the most respectable careers in the country. In this article, we will discuss five of the best universities in New Zealand for prospective engineering students.
See Also: Best Scholarships in New Zealand
Top Schools Offering Engineering Programs in New Zealand
1. University of Auckland
The first university is the most well-regarded and the largest in the country – the University of Auckland. 40,000 students are enrolled in the university between different undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs. For this article, we will focus on the Faculty of Engineering, based in the Newmarket Campus near the city’s central business district.
Prospective students interested in studying engineering have plenty of options to choose from. The university’s bachelor program focuses on building a learner’s mathematical and problem-solving abilities while allowing specializations in subjects such as mechanical, software, and electronic engineering. This process of specialization continues at the master’s and Ph.D. levels. For these reasons, the University of Auckland is among the best engineering schools in New Zealand.
As one of the largest universities in the country, there is a large array of services available on the campus. This includes an extensive library, early childhood centers, and employability services.
2. Auckland University of Technology
Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a major, industry-connected university in Auckland that has built a strong reputation in New Zealand for practical, future-focused engineering education. Its engineering offerings sit within a broader STEM ecosystem (engineering, computing, and mathematical sciences) designed to move students from theory to real-world problem solving, especially in areas like sustainable design, systems thinking, and applied research. For students aiming to study engineering in New Zealand, AUT stands out for combining internationally recognised professional pathways with hands-on learning and close ties to employers and research activity.
AUT’s strength in engineering is reinforced by how seriously it treats research-led learning, something Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship recipient Carol Munywoki experienced first-hand while specialising in electrical power and sustainable energy. She described her time at AUT as “both academically rigorous and personally transformative,” and noted that “completing a 60-point dissertation was a defining moment; it taught me how to carry out independent research and communicate complex technical findings with clarity and confidence.” She also rated the programme highly because it was “research-driven, industry-relevant, and intellectually demanding,” which is exactly the mix students look for when choosing among the best engineering universities in New Zealand.
Beyond academic quality, AUT is especially compelling for international engineers because the learning environment is designed to help students thrive, academically, professionally, and personally. Munywoki shared that “AUT provided outstanding support for international students, both academically and personally,” highlighting resources like orientation, academic skills support, and strong supervisor guidance that helped her succeed at a high level. Just as importantly, she connected AUT’s training to real impact: “I presented education not as a personal achievement alone, but as a tool for broader societal impact”—a mindset that aligns closely with modern engineering in New Zealand, where graduates are expected to contribute to resilient infrastructure, clean energy transitions, and technology that serves communities.
3. University of Canterbury
Not to be confused with Canterbury University in the United Kingdom, the University of Canterbury’s College of Engineering is still highly regarded. The university is the second oldest in New Zealand and offers several engineering subjects. At a bachelor’s level, the College of Engineering has nine specialized subjects that can be studied. If students decide to progress to a graduate or postgraduate level, courses offered include architectural, civil, and financial engineering, as well as others.
The campus is also recognized for having the largest number of field study facilities, a unique opportunity for engineering students interested in the environmental side of engineering. These include accurate simulations of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes such as the Cass Field Station which focuses on grasslands, riverbeds, and swamp biomes.
There are also over 100 excellent student-run societies that one can join to expand their horizons. As well as this, if you and 20 others are interested in starting a new club, the college encourages it with funding easily accessible.
4. Victoria University of Wellington
Ranked in the top 250 universities in the world, the Victoria University of Wellington is another excellent engineering university in New Zealand. The Faculty of Engineering focuses on modern subjects such as cybersecurity, software, and electronic engineering. Study options at the master’s level are either to write a thesis or to partake in coursework.
The university is notable for its vibrant student life on campus and overseas. With over 150 clubs and societies found at Victoria University, engineering students will always have something to take part in outside of class hours.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is an ideal place for students to live and learn. With a population of only a little over 400,000 people, the city is compact and easy to navigate, with an array of interesting sights to see. These include the Wellington Zoo, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and the Wellington Botanical Gardens.
5. University of Waikato
The last university we will discuss here today is the University of Waikato, whose School of Engineering has recently celebrated its 50th birthday. Located in Hamilton, one of New Zealand’s most populous cities, the university is internationally recognized for the quality of its engineering program and its scholars get the chance to apply for the New Zealand government scholarships. The eight engineering programs offered by the college include civil, environmental, mechanical, and software engineering.
One of the reasons why the University of Waikato is among the best engineering schools in New Zealand is that all undergraduate programs in its College of Engineering give students the chance to complete up to 800 hours of paid work at a position of their choosing. This helps to give them an advantage when applying for roles due to the practical experience students gain during these 800 hours.
The city of Hamilton is also home to many things worth seeing, including the Hamilton Astronomical Society Observatory and the 6 public libraries in the city. As well as this, there are several local rugby teams and associations; a given since rugby is easily one of the most popular sports in the city.
FAQs: Engineering Studies in New Zealand
What are the Requirements for Studying Engineering?
To take any course based on engineering, you will be required to have at least two A levels and also to have completed your studies in subjects such as English, mathematics, and physical science. Engineering is currently a popular course in many institutions as there is a high demand for engineers in most parts of the world as a result of the ongoing infrastructural developments. You can choose to specialize in any type of engineering depending on what you are interested in or based on your qualifications.
If you want to join the best community of engineers, then New Zealand should top your list of countries. In this country, you are assured of achieving your goals and achieving more than expected. The universities discussed above are some of the best platforms to shape you into the engineer you desire to become. So do not hesitate to begin your application today!
We hope this article helped inform your decision to study in New Zealand and gave you some ideas about where you should go if you want to start your engineering career in New Zealand. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs for International Students and NZ Study Guide sections!
