International student enrolments topped 59,000 for the first eight months of 2023, a 43% increase compared to the full year in 2022. 

English Language Schools have seen the greatest increase, up by 347% to surpass 7000. 

Education NZ's Geoff Bilbrough told Mike Hosking that it's good to have the students back after the Covid border closures. 

He says the students come to New Zealand looking for a safe place to live, a good quality education, and a unique experience.  

New Zealand's border re-opened to international students at the end of July 2022. 

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