Waipapa Taumata Rau, the University of Auckland, remains New Zealand’s top performer in global higher education rankings, coming in at 156th in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
Out of 2,191 universities reviewed worldwide, it sits comfortably within the top 7.12 percent. The University has sustained its ranking from last year despite growing international competition. No other New Zealand university features in the top 200.
“In a year that saw the largest number of universities ever included in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, retaining our place in the global top 200 and remaining No 1 in Aotearoa New Zealand is an excellent achievement,” she said.
“It demonstrates the strength of our people and our ongoing commitment to delivering world-class teaching and research.” Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater said.
The University recorded notable subject gains this year. Psychology advanced from 79th to 59th, while Education improved from 34th to 33rd, reinforcing Auckland’s depth across disciplines. Engineering also remained among the top four in Australia and New Zealand.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Frank Bloomfield said the rankings highlight the impact of the University’s academic community. “As public-good funding for research in universities continues to face constraints, this recognition highlights the impact of our academics and students, and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to fostering a research environment that enhances academic excellence and addresses the needs of society,” he said.
While the University slipped slightly from its equal-152 position last year, the overall rise in ranked institutions means its relative performance improved. The result demonstrates resilience at a time when global competition for research funding and talent is intensifying.
Auckland also ranked 28th equal in the THE Impact Rankings, placing it among the top 1.2 percent worldwide for sustainability performance earlier in 2025.