This study explores motivational strategies of university student from five different main ethnic groups in New Zealand (NZ). To explore students’ motivational strategies, a self-administered questionnaire was adapted. The study sample included 1854 students from a NZ university who participated in the survey. The findings showed that there were significant differences in the motivational strategies of Pasifika, Asian, and pākeha (NZ European) students. For instance, Pasifika and Asian students were more inclined to be motivated by extrinsic factors, such as the desire to satisfy familial expectations, than Māori or pākeha students. We argue that tertiary institutions should be aware of these complex ethnic dimensions to student motivation and learning, and promote relevant professional training concerning the differences between ethnic groups.

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