High tuition protection costs are hampering growth in New Zealand language schools, with some claiming that they must put aside up to 50% over what they take in revenue to meet government requirements. This is adding to a tough business environment in which enrolments slipped by 6% across all sectors in 2012, with English schools among the worst hit.

International language school chain Eurocentres has shut two schools in Australia and New Zealand, blaming the high dollar in both markets among other driving factors. However, it is to open five new schools, singling out the US as a particular growth market due to its low dollar, easing visa conditions, and proximity to major language markets.