University of Auckland No 1 in NZ in QS Sustainability rankings 2025

Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland has once again demonstrated its leadership in sustainability education and research, retaining its prestigious position as the number one university in Aotearoa New Zealand in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025.

The University is one of the top institutions in the world for environmental and social impact, and is ranked fourth in Oceania, behind only the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney, and UNSW. Globally, the University achieved an impressive 17th place out of 1,744 institutions, placing it firmly in the top 1 percent of universities worldwide – a position it has held since the inception of these rankings.

The 2025 rankings saw a significant increase in participation, with the number of universities evaluated rising by 25 percent, from 1,400 to 1,744. This growth underscores the expanding commitment to sustainability in higher education and highlights the University of Auckland's continued excellence in this critical area.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater said she and the University’s executive committee are incredibly proud of Waipapa Taumata Rau’s continued excellence in the QS Sustainability Rankings.

“Our long-term and ingrained efforts in environmental and social impact, coupled with our strong governance, underscore our dedication to sustainability. While the competition is intensifying, with more universities making significant strides, our early and ongoing commitment to sustainability ensures we remain at the forefront," she said.

“As the landscape of sustainability in higher education evolves, the University of Auckland remains committed to innovative approaches,” the Vice-Chancellor said.

“Our proactive stance on sustainability will continue to drive the University’s mission to foster a sustainable future for all.”

The results showcase the University’s commitment to societal transformation by promoting equality, sharing knowledge, delivering excellent student experiences, and achieving strong graduate outcomes.

Breaking down the categories, the University had a top 20 result in Environmental Impact, which demonstrates working to improve the planet through environmental research, climate mitigation strategies, and alumni contributions to sustainability. The University scored 93.5 in this category, with standout performances in Environmental Education (98.2) and Environmental Research (97.5).

It was placed in the world’s top 50 for social impact, a category that celebrates universities' commitments to improving the health and well-being not only of its students, but society more widely. Its Social Impact score improved from 94.2 to 95.5, reflecting Waipapa Taumata Rau’s dedication to creating a more equal, fair, and just world.

The Governance score was a strong 95.7, highlighting robust governance practices and ethical organisational culture.

The University of Auckland's research into quality education and its reputation in relevant social subjects have also significantly contributed to its high ranking.

Professor Frank Bloomfield, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, says it’s pleasing to see the breadth of research impact across disciplines.

"This reflects both the University’s excellence and strength in research in the humanities and social sciences and the importance placed upon these disciplines by these international rankings,” he said.

All eight of New Zealand's universities featured in this year’s rankings, sitting in the top 500, giving the country the highest average score in the rankings.