Manaaki at Waikato

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships nurture future leaders by offering high-quality education and valuable skills to international students from a number of countries around the globe.

Managed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), these scholarships support sustainable development in partner countries and offer a life-changing experience for Manaaki scholars!

Apply online through the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships website.

"New Zealand is breathtaking, and people are friendly and nice. I chose Waikato for its beautiful campus with lots of green spaces and the sustainability rankings. I feel very welcome here in this vibrant and multicultural community.

"I feel privileged to be a Manaaki scholar. The student support I received was amazing, with step-by-step on how to successfully settle in, and the exclusive  orientation programme for Manaaki scholars helped me make a smooth transition to the academic environment.

"Coming here is a lifechanging experience. The Manaaki scholarship encouraged me to keep striving for excellence in my studies and to further explore how to make a positive contribution in my community.”

Eustáquio Carvalho De Sousa, East Timor
Bachelor of Science – Computer Science student

"When I first applied to study at Waikato, the reply was fast, and the communication was great! Studying at Waikato is just how I imagined it: culturally diverse, with a great mix of International students and a strong sense of Indigenous belonging.

"The history of New Zealand and the Māori knowledge that I am learning is a great inspiration for me in my field of study. The support I receive is excellent. The special orientation for Manaaki scholars is very helpful and makes me adjust faster to university life.

"I enjoy studying here and appreciate all the support and discussion with all my lectures inside and outside the class. On top of that, I learned a great work-life balance here: I’m a full-time student, but I enjoy my time travelling and volunteering during the study break.

"Coming to Waikato was the best decision for me!"

Yoga S Kristama, Indonesia
Master of Environment and Society student

“The University of Waikato stands out for its commitment to fostering a global, inclusive learning atmosphere. The faculty’s expertise and dedication were instrumental in shaping my critical thinking, strategic management, and leadership abilities. Being a recipient of the Manaaki New Zealand Government Scholarship was an honor that profoundly impacted my journey. 

The scholarship eased my transition into a new cultural and academic setting, enabling me to fully immerse myself in the learning process. I’m grateful to the Manaaki Scholarship program and the University of Waikato for empowering me to achieve my goals and make a positive difference in my community back in Fiji.”

Mohseen Khan, Fiji
Masters of Management Studies alumni

"My immersion into Waikato University was the best experience I've ever had, in terms of changing my life direction and changing how I view the world. It instilled social interaction skills and has enabled me to become a more confident individual - professionally and personally. I'm really glad I chose Waikato University as my 'go-to' university."

Usaia Gaunavou, Fiji
Masters of Environmental Planning alumni

"As an aspiring international student seeking a university for my postgraduate studies, I was looking for an institution that fostered a strong sense of community and offered meaningful engagement with the indigenous culture of New Zealand. I found exactly that at Waikato University. Additionally, the university’s strong emphasis on research collaboration with local industries enabled me to work alongside a team of researchers at a New Zealand-based NGO, enhancing my academic and professional experience."

Monisha Singh, Fiji
PGDip, Psychology alumni