The history of Massey University

Massey University has grown from a small agricultural college in Palmerston North to become New Zealand's largest residential university spread over three cities. Massey University now has three campuses in the North Island, and the highest number of extramural students.

Massey offers the only veterinary science programmes in New Zealand. Massey also offers the only Bachelor of Aviation degree in New Zealand. Massey University qualifications are recognised worldwide and several programmes have international accreditation.

From 85 students in the first year, Massey now has over 35,000 internal and extramural students.

Massey’s story continues

• Massey answers calls for higher education in agriculture (1879-1926)
• Massey’s foundation years (1927-1945)
  • Student association beginnings
  • Women at Massey
• Massey’s consolidating years (1946-1963)
• Massey becomes a university (1964-1992)
  • Founding Statement
  • Coat of arms
  • Te Kupenga o te Mātauranga Marae
• Massey expands into three cities (1993-2009)
  • Merger with Wellington Polytechnic

Page authorised by University Archivist
Last updated on Monday 14 May 2012