Tertiary fee increase, Kiwi-Indian economic report and Prime Minister Modi’s visit w/ Labour’s Shanan Halbert: July 16th 2026

The Government is considering allowing providers to raise domestic course fees by up to 6% in 2027. Consultation closed on 13 July, and the minister is yet to make a final decision. Because the cap was also 6% in 2025 and 2026, students could face a cumulative increase of roughly 19% across three years where providers apply the maximum.  In other news, the Waitākere Indian Association report estimates that Indians’ economic activity contributed $37.3 billion in GDP and supported 220,910 full-time-equivalent jobs in the year to March 2025. It also calls for better recognition of migrant skills, professional pathways and stronger education and talent links with India.  The report launched in Auckland just before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit, the first by an Indian prime minister in 40 years, elevating the NZ-India relationship to a strategic partnership, including stronger defence and maritime cooperation. Producer Pranuja spoke with Shanan Halbert on these topics.