New Zealand Sees Largest Annual Boost in Teaching Workforce in 20 Years

Introduction: A Stronger Future Begins in the Classroom

The New Zealand Government has delivered the most substantial growth in its teaching workforce in two decades, a pivotal achievement in its quest to create a world-class education system. With the introduction of thousands of new educators, higher teacher compensation, and increased support pathways, the education sector is witnessing a marked revival. Education Minister Erica Stanford attributes this success to targeted reforms and a renewed national commitment to excellence in teaching.

Record-Breaking Teacher Growth in 2024

The teaching workforce expanded by 2.5% in 2024, representing an addition of 1,864 new teachers — the highest single-year increase since systematic record-keeping began in 2009. Notably, this growth slightly outpaced the national student roll increase, highlighting the government’s intent to reduce teacher-student ratios and boost classroom engagement.

Primary schools welcomed 1,128 of the new teachers, while 736 were added to the secondary level. Every region in the country saw a net gain in teachers, with standout increases in South and West Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, and Canterbury.

Initial Teacher Education Enrolments on the Rise

The influx of new teachers is supported by a surge in first-time domestic enrolments in Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs, which climbed 6.3% from 3,400 to 3,615 in 2024. This upswing — the strongest since 2009 — spans early childhood, primary, and secondary education, reflecting broad interest in the profession.

Improved Compensation Bolsters Recruitment

Teachers in New Zealand are enjoying significantly improved pay, helping attract and retain talent in the sector. In 2024:

• The average total pay for primary teachers exceeded $94,000.

• Secondary teachers earned approximately $101,000 on average.

• Primary school principals earned over $150,000.

• Secondary school principals earned more than $200,000 on average.

These figures underscore the government’s intention to reward teaching professionals fairly and competitively in comparison to other professions.

Removing Barriers, Creating Pathways

To ensure the career path into teaching is accessible, the Government has taken steps to eliminate financial and logistical obstacles. Measures include:

• Removal of teacher registration fees.

• Scholarships and on-site training pathways.

• Support for returning and overseas-trained teachers.

“These initiatives are helping more Kiwis see teaching as a viable and fulfilling career,” said Minister Stanford. “By making it easier to step into the classroom, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient education system.”

Budget 2025: Deeper Investment in Education

Looking ahead, Budget 2025 commits an additional $53 million to cover teacher registration fees through 2028. It also includes:

• Expanded training programs for aspiring school principals.

• Financial backing for qualified educators returning to the profession or relocating from overseas.

These strategic investments aim to shore up teacher supply long term, develop leadership within the profession, and ensure all students — regardless of geography — benefit from quality instruction.

 Investing in Teachers, Investing in Learners

“Great teachers are the single most important factor in a child’s education,” Minister Stanford emphasized. “We’re backing our education workforce — from training to registration to the classroom — because when we support teachers, we support better outcomes for every learner.”

The data and policy directions of 2024 signal that New Zealand is not just rebuilding its teacher base but reinvigorating the entire education framework — with children, teachers, and communities all set to benefit in the years ahead.