The jury’s in: Victoria University of Wellington’s law expertise tops NZ rankings

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s excellence in teaching, research, and engagement for the subject of law has earned it the top spot in New Zealand, in the Times Higher Education (THE) 2026 Rankings by subject.

two buildings, one large and glassy, one old and cream-coloured, with a person walking towards the camera

In these global subject rankings, Victoria University of Wellington is in the 151–175 band for Law. The ranking evaluates excellence across constitutional and administrative law, international law commercial and corporate law, criminal law and justice, and legal theory and jurisprudence, among other subjects.

“In a University renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching, I’m delighted to see the dedication and knowledge of our academic staff recognised on the global stage,” says Vice-Chancellor Nic Smith.

“Our law and business schools are both situated in the heart of Wellington’s parliamentary precinct and work collaboratively with industry experts to deliver the best law and commercial law offerings in New Zealand. Congratulations to our staff for this achievement.”

Dean of the Faculty of Law, Professor Geoff McLay, is delighted with the result.

“We are thrilled to receive this news, which reflects the commitment from the excellent scholars, teachers, and professional staff at our law school. I'd like to thank them for working hard to make this the best law school it can be for our students and wider community.

“We are also proud to share this achievement with our commercial law colleagues in the Wellington School of Business and Government."

The University is ranked second in New Zealand for two further subjects: Education Studies, recognising our Education programme, and Computer Science. Education is ranked in the 151–175 band globally, while Computer Science has risen 50 places to the 201–250 band globally.

THE evaluated 425 universities from 53 countries and territories to compile their rankings by subject list.