Nominations have opened for the 2025 Canterbury International Student Awards, which celebrate the exceptional contributions international students make to Christchurch.
The awards recognise the positive impact international students have on the local community, both socially and culturally, as well as their contribution to the national economy.
ChristchurchNZ said international education contributed $3.7 billion to New Zealand’s GDP in 2019, supporting thousands of jobs across the country. The city continues to benefit from the presence of international students, with 78 percent of those holding post-degree honours qualifications remaining in New Zealand a year after their studies.
ChristchurchNZ said the city welcomes the diversity international students bring, offering a supportive, globally connected environment that feels like a home away from home.
Nominations are open to all international students across all education providers in Canterbury. Award categories include:
Community Engagement Award
For students who have made a meaningful difference through volunteer work or community initiatives.
Leader and Mentor Award
Recognising international students who have shown exceptional leadership and influenced positive change.
Cultural Ambassador Award
For students promoting cultural understanding and exchange within the Christchurch community.
Mayor’s International Student of the Year Award
A supreme award recognising an international student who has made an outstanding impact on the city and wider Canterbury region.
Each category will recognise three awardees: one from schools, one from English language providers, private tertiary establishments and Te Pūkenga, and one from universities.
Nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday 9 July. Shortlisted students will be invited to the awards ceremony on Thursday 7 August at Nga Hau E Wha National Marae.
The awards are supported by Christchurch Educated, ChristchurchNZ, Christchurch City Council and the University of Canterbury.
More information is available at Christchurch Educated.
