Tertiary education institution name change criteria

See information on the conditions under which a tertiary education organisation can change name.

When a tertiary education institution seeks to change its name, specific criteria must be met and process followed.

Key points

Section 266 of the Education and Training Act 2020 allows the Minister of Education to approve a tertiary education institution (TEI) name change on the recommendation of that TEI’s council. 

A name change must be consistent with the nature of the services the tertiary education institution provides, the efficient use of national resources, the national interest, and the demands of accountability as set out in section 266 of the Education and Training Act 2020. 

A wānanga or university can seek a name change using the processes identified in section 268 of the Education and Training Act 2020. If the wānanga, wants to use the term ‘university’, section 456 of the Education and Training Act 2020 applies.

The New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology may seek a name change using the processes outlined in section 314 of the Education and Training Act 2020.

Last reviewed: 17 December 2020 Has this been useful? Give us your feedback