The TEU's Call to Action Amid Escalating Costs
New Zealand's Tertiary Education Union (TEU), known in Māori as Te Hautū Kahurangi o Aotearoa, has issued a stark warning in its recent Tertiary Update about the intensifying cost of living crisis gripping the higher education sector. Staff and students at universities and polytechnics are grappling with surging expenses, particularly fuel prices rocketed by global tensions including the ongoing conflict involving Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. TEU National Secretary Amy Ross emphasized that this 'unprecedented escalation in costs makes getting to work a substantial barrier for many of our members, particularly those on lower wages.' The union is urging tertiary leaders to step up with immediate measures to support their workforce.
The crisis is not isolated; it reflects broader economic pressures where household expenses for individuals range from $4,630 to $5,625 monthly, and families of four face $6,800 to $7,790. In the tertiary context, this translates to heightened financial strain on campus communities, exacerbating staffing shortages and student dropout risks.
Surging Fuel and Commuting Challenges for Tertiary Staff
Fuel costs have surged dramatically, directly impacting tertiary education staff who often commute long distances to rural or regional campuses. Many roles, such as those in laboratories, classrooms, or student support services, cannot be performed remotely, leaving lower-paid employees—frequently in administrative, technical, or entry-level academic positions—disproportionately affected. TEU has formally requested employers implement greater workplace flexibility, subsidies for public transport where feasible, and mileage allowances adjusted to current petrol prices to bridge the gap.
This push comes as New Zealand's overall cost of living data shows working people falling behind, with wages lagging inflation. For university and college staff, the ripple effects include reduced morale, higher absenteeism, and potential retention issues, especially amid ongoing job cuts like the 40 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions axed at Lincoln University in March 2026.
Student Living Expenses Skyrocketing in Universities
University students are equally squeezed, with essential costs up 220% in recent years despite some support adjustments. Weekly rent averages $193, food $96, and hall fees have risen across institutions for 2026. Many juggle multiple part-time jobs, but opportunities are scarce amid the economic slowdown. Campus hardship funds report climbing demand, as students balance studies with bills for power, groceries, and transport.
From April 1, 2026, Student Allowances and Loan Living Costs received increases—for example, a single under-24 student living away from home now gets $333.38 weekly after tax, up from $323.33. However, leaders argue these fall short of reality, with one stating students 'cannot survive' on current rates amid soaring rents and food prices.
Funding Shortfalls Amid Enrolment Boom
The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) has flagged a persistent government funding shortfall for domestic enrolments, projected to worsen into 2027. Despite covering 99% of 2025 forecasts using reserves, 2026 sees universities like Auckland reporting surges—seven of eight institutions saw semester one increases. TEC warns of a 'challenging fiscal environment,' forcing providers to make trade-offs or disinvest in underperformers.
Universities New Zealand's Chris Whelan noted actual numbers exceed forecasts, leading some to discourage unfunded enrolments. This mismatch strains institutions already facing cost pressures, potentially limiting course offerings and support services. For more on the TEC's position, see their detailed warning.
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Coalition Government Legislation: Mixed Signals on Fees and Support
The National-led coalition's policies have sparked debate. 2026 fee regulations allow up to 6% increases for Level 3+ courses to help providers manage costs, but critics say this burdens students further. Changes to student support from April aim to ease pressures, yet TEU highlights 'punitive legislation' like the Employment Leave Bill eroding entitlements.
New Tertiary Minister Penny Simmonds, with sector experience, faces TEU requests for urgent action on funding constraints, privatization risks, and 'change fatigue.' The union seeks meetings to address these amid a shift toward vocational priorities and economic growth focus.
Union Bargaining and Wins in Tough Times
TEU is mobilizing for key battles, including polytechnics' Multi-Employer Collective Agreement (MECA) bargaining starting May 1, 2026—the sector's largest. Recent success at Yoobee Colleges secured a 6% pay rise over two years, covering creative and tourism staff. May Day rallies will demand liveable incomes and sector investment.
Delegates are gearing up via regional forums, sharing strategies amid job insecurity. TEU leaders like Presidents Māori Garrick Cooper and Tiriti Ti Lamusse plan visibility at events. Full details in TEU's Tertiary Update No 6.
- Flexibility for remote-eligible roles
- Public transport subsidies
- Adjusted mileage rates
- Pay equity advocacy for women's roles
Campus Case Studies: Lincoln, Auckland, and Beyond
At Lincoln University, 40 FTE cuts shocked staff, linked to viability amid funding gaps. Auckland University's enrolment boom strains resources, while Otago and others navigate similar pressures. Student leaders report reshaped campus life, with groups like food banks overwhelmed.
Regional polytechnics face MECA talks amid Te Pūkenga reforms, highlighting privatization concerns. These examples underscore the crisis's tangible toll on New Zealand's eight universities and vocational providers.
Broader Implications for Higher Education Delivery
The COL crisis threatens educational quality: staff burnout risks innovation, while student financial stress boosts dropouts. Universities must balance international revenue targets (aiming to double to $7.2B by 2034) with domestic shortfalls. Climate policy rollbacks add long-term worries, as TEU notes in court challenges.
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Towards Solutions: Leadership and Collaboration Needed
TEU advocates multi-stakeholder action: government funding alignment, employer subsidies, and student support uplifts. Institutions could expand scholarships, mental health resources, and flexible learning. For insights into TEU's fuel crisis call, visit their statement. Long-term, equitable policies could stabilize the sector.
Future Outlook for New Zealand Tertiary Education
As 2026 bargaining unfolds and Budget decisions loom, the sector eyes resilience. With strong enrolments signaling demand, addressing COL head-on could unlock potential. Stakeholders urge a balanced approach: fiscal prudence without sacrificing access or quality, ensuring universities and colleges thrive for Aotearoa's future.
