New Zealand’s education system is very similar to that of the UK. School is compulsory for children aged between 5 and 15, and the country’s schools have an excellent reputation and offer a wide range of learning options. All children are entitled to free places at state schools; there are also private (fee-paying) schools. Most schools, even those in inner city areas, have their own playing fields, gymnasiums and swimming pools. Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, spent two years at Wanganui Collegiate School during his 'gap' year as a junior master.

The school year begins in late January or early February and ends in December. It has four terms with breaks of two to three weeks between. Students have a six week summer holiday.

New Zealand’s higher education system includes universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and private training establishments. Universities receive around 70 percent of their funding from the government, with the balance made up by fees.