If you are someone who enjoys interacting with people, loves to travel, and dreams of managing hotels, restaurants, or events, then studying Bachelor of Hospitality Management in New Zealand can be a great option for your future. New Zealand is known for its world-class education system, peaceful environment, and strong focus on practical learning. Many international students choose to study in New Zealand because the degrees are globally recognised, and the hospitality industry here is full of exciting career opportunities. The hospitality sector in New Zealand is growing fast, especially with tourism returning strongly, so there is a big demand for skilled professionals. When you apply for a New Zealand student visa, you get the chance to study in one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world. The New Zealand study visa also allows you to work part-time while studying and full-time during breaks, helping you manage your expenses and gain real work experience. In this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about studying hospitality management in New Zealand, from top universities, course structure, fees, and scholarships to career opportunities and visa options. Whether you want to manage a luxury hotel or start your own food business, this degree can give you the right start.
Universities offering a Bachelor of Hospitality Management
Auckland University of Technology (AUT)
AUT is one of the top universities in New Zealand, especially popular among international students who want to study in New Zealand and gain modern, practical knowledge. The Bachelor of International Hospitality Management at AUT is a three-year degree that includes subjects like hotel operations, food and beverage management, tourism, and event planning. AUT is known for its hands-on learning approach, where students get real experience through internships and industry projects. The university has strong links with the hospitality industry, giving students a great chance to find work after graduation. With this course, students become eligible for a New Zealand study visa, and they can also work part-time while studying. AUT offers support services to help international students adjust to life in New Zealand, making it a great choice for your future career.
Lincoln University
Lincoln University offers a unique and business-focused program called Bachelor of Commerce (Hotel and Tourism Management). It is a great option for students who are interested in managing hotels, resorts, and tourism businesses. The course is designed to give both theory and real-world experience. Students must complete 480 hours of practical industry experience, which helps build confidence and skills. Lincoln has a beautiful campus and a friendly environment, perfect for students from overseas who want to study in New Zealand. The course includes topics like hospitality marketing, strategic management, customer service, and food and beverage operations. International students can apply for a New Zealand student visa and enjoy post-study work opportunities. Lincoln’s focus on sustainability and global business makes it a strong choice for students interested in modern hospitality practices.
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Ara Institute is one of New Zealand’s leading polytechnics and offers a Bachelor of Applied Management (Hospitality Management major). This course is perfect for students who want a career in managing restaurants, hotels, or tourism businesses. The degree includes subjects like accounting, hospitality operations, event planning, and customer experience management. Ara’s strength lies in its close connection with local businesses and industries. Students learn by doing, which means they graduate with real-world skills that are useful from day one. For international students looking to study in New Zealand, Ara is a popular option because it offers affordable tuition, excellent student support, and practical learning. The course also makes you eligible to apply for a New Zealand study visa, and you can work while you study to gain experience and help cover your living costs.
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Toi Ohomai, located in the Bay of Plenty region, offers a Bachelor of Applied Hospitality and Tourism Management. This degree focuses on leadership, business operations, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism practices. It is ideal for students who want a mix of hospitality and tourism knowledge, and who dream of starting their own hotel, café, or travel business one day. The course includes practical work experience, projects, and industry visits that help you understand the real working environment. International students are welcome, and Toi Ohomai has support services to help with accommodation, visa advice, and academic success. When you enrol, you can apply for a New Zealand study visa, and the degree also qualifies you for a post-study work visa. If you want to study in New Zealand and enjoy a calm, nature-rich environment while studying hospitality, Toi Ohomai is a great option.
Course Structure
The Bachelor of Hospitality Management in New Zealand is usually a three-year full-time program that is designed to give students both academic knowledge and hands-on skills.
- In the first year, students focus on basic subjects such as hospitality operations, food and beverage management, communication skills, customer service, and business foundations. These topics help students understand how the hospitality industry works.
- In the second year, students move to more advanced subjects like hotel finance, marketing, human resource management, event planning, and sustainable hospitality practices.
- The final year often includes project work, research assignments, and a compulsory industry placement or internship. This helps students apply what they have learned in real-world situations. Most universities and institutes also include lessons on New Zealand’s Maori culture and hospitality values, which adds a unique local touch.
- Since the program is full-time, it qualifies international students to apply for a New Zealand student visa under the New Zealand study visa policy. Students can also work part-time during their studies and full-time during holidays. This course structure ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in hotels, restaurants, events, and tourism businesses in New Zealand and other countries.
Tuition Fee and Cost of Living
The tuition fees for a Bachelor of Hospitality Management in New Zealand vary depending on the university or institute. On average, international students can expect to pay between NZD 20,000 to NZD 35,000 per year for tuition. Institutes like AUT, Lincoln University, and Ara offer quality education with different fee structures. In addition to tuition, students also need to consider the cost of living in New Zealand. Living costs can range from NZD 15,000 to NZD 20,000 per year, which includes accommodation, food, transport, internet, and personal expenses. Cities like Auckland and Wellington may be more expensive, while regions like Rotorua or New Plymouth may have lower costs. To support these expenses, students with a New Zealand student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during holidays. This helps manage daily expenses and gain work experience. When applying for a New Zealand study visa, students must also show proof of sufficient funds to cover both tuition and living costs for at least one year.
Scholarship for Bachelor of Hospitality Management
Getting a scholarship can help reduce your tuition fees and living costs while you study in New Zealand. Here are some common scholarship options available to international students applying for a Bachelor of Hospitality Management:
- University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities like AUT, Lincoln University, and Ara Institute offer scholarships for international students based on academic performance or leadership. These awards can range from NZD 2,000 to NZD 10,000, depending on the institution and your grades.
- Government Scholarships: The New Zealand Government offers scholarships such as the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship, which covers tuition, living costs, and travel. These are very competitive and usually given for students from selected countries.
- Regional and Institution-Based Awards: Some institutes, especially in smaller regions like Toi Ohomai or PIHMS, offer special grants to encourage students to study in those areas. These scholarships may include accommodation discounts or work placement benefits.
- New Zealand Study Visa Support Scholarships: Certain scholarships are designed to support students who meet the New Zealand study visa requirements, helping with visa fees or insurance.
These scholarships ease the financial burden and allow students to focus more on learning and gaining experience.
Career Prospects After Studying Hospitality Management in New Zealand
After completing your Bachelor of Hospitality Management in New Zealand, there are many exciting job options available. The degree is highly valued in New Zealand and internationally. Here are five common career paths:
- Hotel Manager: You can work in hotels, resorts, or lodges as a hotel or accommodation manager. This includes handling bookings, staff, and guest services.
- Restaurant or Café Manager: With your skills, you can manage the daily operations of restaurants, cafés, or food outlets, ensuring quality service and customer satisfaction.
- Event Planner or Coordinator: Many graduates find work in event management, helping plan weddings, conferences, and corporate events.
- Tourism and Travel Consultant: You can guide tourists, plan tours, or work with travel companies. This is especially useful if you study in New Zealand, where tourism is strong.
- Entrepreneur in Hospitality: With the experience and business knowledge gained during your studies, you can even start your own hotel, restaurant, or catering business.
West Highlander Immigration
If you are planning to study in New Zealand and need expert help with your New Zealand student visa or New Zealand study visa, West Highlander Immigration in Chandigarh is here to guide you. Led by an experienced team and Licensed Immigration Adviser, they specialize in helping students choose the right course, prepare documents, and apply successfully for New Zealand universities and visas, ensuring a smooth and stress-free process.