Tauranga will put its schools and lifestyle in the international spotlight next month, with a record 29 schools involved in promoting the city in South Korea as an education destination.

The New Zealand Tauranga Study Fair will be held at the COEX Convention and Exhibition Centre in Seoul on September 5-6.

The fair will bring together representatives from Tauranga’s primary, intermediate and secondary schools.

The delegation will include principals, international education leaders and school representatives, who will meet with Korean families interested in education opportunities in Tauranga.

Organiser Hyun Taek Yang said the 29-school delegation was the largest group from Tauranga to ever participate in the fair.

“[It demonstrates] the region’s strong commitment to international education and the value of working together to promote Tauranga overseas,” he said.

A pre-departure hui for participating schools was held at Tauranga Boys’ College on August 12, where representatives received final information before travelling to Korea next month.

Education Tauranga chairwoman Premila D’Mello said international education continued to make a significant contribution to Tauranga’s economy and community.

“International students contribute through tuition fees, homestay accommodation, transport, retail spending and tourism, while visiting parents and relatives often extend their stays to explore the wider Bay of Plenty.”

Priority One general manager Greg Simmonds said international students brought benefits beyond their direct economic contribution.

“International students bring talent, cultural diversity, global connections and economic activity that benefit our businesses, schools, tertiary institutions and wider community,” he said.

“Their contribution helps strengthen our region’s workforce pipeline, supports local jobs, and enhances Tauranga’s reputation as a vibrant, internationally connected place to live, learn and invest.”

Taek Yang said Korean families were strongly supported throughout the international education process, from initial inquiries and school selection through to helping students settle into their schools and communities.

“[We also] maintain relationships with families after students return to Korea. This long-term approach gives parents confidence while strengthening Tauranga’s reputation through positive experiences, word-of-mouth recommendations and lasting relationships.”

D’Mello said international students also contributed to the social and cultural life of the city.

“They build lasting friendships with local students, promote cultural understanding and help create more inclusive, connected communities,” she said.

“Every student who chooses Tauranga enriches our city by sharing their language, traditions and experiences while becoming part of the fabric of our community. These relationships strengthen Tauranga’s reputation as a welcoming place to live, learn and belong.”