New Zealand’s ambition to double the value of its international education market by 2034 is showing strong signs of success, with multiple indicators emerging from China (*see notes to editors below), the country’s largest source of international students, demonstrating renewed growth, policy confidence and rising demand for study in Aotearoa.

As demand strengthens and policy momentum builds toward the 2034 target, attention is increasingly turning to the practical enablers that make New Zealand an attractive and seamless destination for Chinese families. One of the most critical – and often underestimated – factors is payments.

Michelle Shao, Executive Vice President, South Pacific Division, UnionPay International, said that while academic excellence and visa certainty drive initial decision-making, the ease of managing cross-border payments significantly influences the overall student and family experience. UnionPay has made substantial efforts to provide Chinese students have a positive and seamless consumption experience.

“Families in China are making major financial commitments when they choose overseas education,” said Michelle Shao, Executive Vice President, South Pacific Division, UnionPay International. “Tuition fees, accommodation deposits, and living expenses involve substantial cross-border transactions. When payment processes are smooth, familiar and secure, it reduces stress and builds confidence in the destination, such as New Zealand.”

UnionPay has long maintained a strong relationship with Chinese students, both domestically and internationally. As one of the most widely used payment networks in China, UnionPay cards and digital solutions are deeply integrated into everyday financial life for Chinese families. Extending that familiarity overseas provides continuity and reassurance.

In support of New Zealand’s international education growth ambitions, UnionPay continues to expand its acceptance across New Zealand universities. Most recently, the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University have enabled UnionPay acceptance, further strengthening payment convenience for Chinese students and their families. 

This expansion ensures that Chinese students and their families can pay tuition fees and related expenses using trusted UnionPay channels.

On top of this, UnionPay has optimised its network so Chinese students can pay for everything with their UnionPay card, with widespread acceptance with over 90,000 merchant terminals and 90% of ATMs in NZ accepting UnionPay, including many Chinese supermarkets and restaurants. Students can also enjoy regular promotions such as instant spending discounts and tuition fee rebates.

“By expanding UnionPay acceptance at leading New Zealand institutions starting with the University of Canterbury and Lincoln University, we are helping to remove friction from the payment journey,” added Michelle. “Students can use the same trusted payment methods they rely on at home, whether through UnionPay cards or digital wallets. This continuity matters.”

Across the broader South Pacific region, UnionPay is also widely accepted in the higher education sector. In Australia, for example, the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the University of Adelaide have officially merged to form the new Adelaide University, which also accepts UnionPay.

The importance of payment enablement is particularly relevant given the broader context highlighted in Chinese media reports. As families navigate complex global conditions and reassess the ‘calculus’ of studying abroad, predictability and ease across every touchpoint, from visa approvals to financial transactions, become differentiators.

“In an environment where families are carefully managing risk, certainty is invaluable,” said Michelle. “New Zealand’s stable visa policy and strong student care framework are powerful advantages. Payment certainty is the next layer.”

“Education providers looking to tap into the Chinese market must think beyond recruitment campaigns,” Michelle Shao added. “They must consider the entire student lifecycle, including how tuition and living costs are paid.”

The presence of Chinese students in primary and secondary schools – representing nearly one fifth of the Chinese cohort in early 2025 – suggests that families are increasingly considering longer-term educational pathways in New Zealand. These students often bring accompanying family members, extended stays and higher cumulative spending, deepening economic ties.

“Chinese students contribute significantly to local communities, not just economically but culturally,” said Michelle. “By ensuring that financial infrastructure supports them from the moment they arrive, we strengthen people-to-people connections between China and New Zealand.”