NMIT Fitness students get hands-on at the Weet-Bix TRYathlon
Sticking to tradition, NMIT learners supported local kids at the annual Weet-Bix TRYathlon in Tāhunanui.
NMIT records significant boost in international enrolments
NMIT is proud to announce an 13% increase in overall EFTS (Equivalent Full Time Students) - compared to 4% across the national network of polytechnics - with an impressive 37% increase in international student numbers.
This growth has brought NMIT to its highest international enrolment figures in five years, moving it closer to pre-Covid levels.
With over 3,500 learners across more than 100 diverse programmes at four campuses, NMIT continues to attract students seeking practical, career-focused education in a vibrant and supportive environment.
“Our strong enrolment growth is a testament to the relevance of our programmes and the dedication of our staff”, says NMIT Executive Director Olivia Hall.
“We are committed to offering excellent education to our learners, while serving the needs of our community, industry and iwi partners. Our international student community continues to grow, enhancing both the educational experience on our campuses and the vibrancy of Te Tauihu. It’s great to witness firsthand the significant boost these learners bring to our communities, through both cultural diversity and economic benefit”.
One of the standout successes of the year is the new Level 3 Aeronautical Engineering programme, launched in response to a global shortage of aeronautical engineers, and complementary to NMIT’s existing Aeronautical Engineering programme in Woodbourne. Based at NMIT’s new Nelson hangar, the Level 3 programme has already attracted significant interest, with the February intake now full and subsequent intakes rapidly filling up.
Nursing remains one of NMIT’s most popular programmes, with 106 first-year learners enrolled this year. With healthcare needs evolving in Aotearoa, NMIT’s nursing students are well-prepared to contribute to the community’s needs.
Mātauranga Māori programmes have also seen a positive uptake of learners signing up to start or continue their te reo and tikanga Māori journey. Te Pōkaitahi Reo Te Kaupae 6 (Certificate in Te Reo Māori Level 6) was added to this year’s suite of te reo Māori offerings at NMIT’s Nelson campus, and Levels 1 to 3 are now offered in Motueka.
The Master of Applied Management programme continues to attract international students, providing advanced business knowledge and practical skills for those seeking leadership roles in global organisations.
First year Master of Applied Management student Eve Rosales, who recently moved to Nelson to study at NMIT, shared her experience of moving from Manila in the Philippines and settling into Te Tauihu.
“My husband and I chose Nelson because we wanted a change from our fast-paced city life. Nelson's stunning beach and mountain views immediately captured our hearts. As newlyweds, having a peaceful and inspiring environment is what we want as we start a new chapter of our lives. I chose NMIT not only for its strong business programmes, which aligns with my professional background, but also for its excellent student support services. As an international student building a new life in a new country, having that support is invaluable.”
When asked about her experience at NMIT and in Nelson so far, Eve says:
“The learning approach [at NMIT] is different from what I was used to back home, but the support from tutors and the learning community has made the transition much smoother and more manageable”.
“I love being just a short drive away from beautiful lakes and rivers — a really good place to relax and have quick picnic with my husband and our friends. Additionally, the friendly and welcoming community here has also made a big difference. Even though we're far from family, it feels like we've found a new one here in Nelson”.
