Otago University's taken out New Zealand's highest spot on the World University Rankings by subject list.

It's the eighth best university in the world for dentistry.

They take into account the opinion of academics, opinion of employers who hire graduates, and analysed research papers.

Dean Professor Paul Brunton says the acknowledgement opens up opportunities, and will help make Otago an even more appealing place to come and study to those around the world.

Brunton points out that, with a new facility in the pipeline, it couldn't have come at a better time.

"The University has made a huge investment in the industry recently, because they've announced they were going to have a brand new building here, substantial refurbishment to one of our existing buildings and a brand new clinical building. It's the biggest project the University's ever engaged in."

Massey University has the second highest result, with a 15th in the world for veterinary science. It's also 33rd for agriculture and forestry.

Auckland University made the list in 31 different disciplines, which is the most top spots of any university here. Its highest ranking result a 23rd in development studies.

Our Tertiary Education Minister is pleased with the performance of New Zealand universities. Steven Joyce says in these subjects, it's pleasing to see New Zealand making a very strong showing.

He says our universities as a whole should be proud, as they all got at least one listing in the QS subject rankings.