Rotorua woman Deb Bell was pleased to graduate, having started her diploma in business more than 25 years ago.
"My son Richard at 20 completed a New Zealand diploma in business and here I am at my ripe old age two years later.
"I don't think I am the longest person ever. I started it before he [her son] was born. The reason it took so long was life takes you on different journeys with family and business.
"It's amazing, I think everybody should do it just to feel that sense of achievement."
Gowthami Gaoimalla, who came to New Zealand to further her studies, said it was a special day.
"This is the most important day of my life," she said.
"I really enjoyed my time here. I've made so many friends.
"I love it, I love the different culture, meeting people and different kinds of people; it is a good opportunity to do that. But especially in New Zealand, it has got its own culture.
"I am optimistic for the future, you should always be positive, and I am so excited."
Manoj Koyal was excited to have finished his diploma.
"I have got a job already. I studied a postgraduate diploma in health management. I am very excited to graduate, very much so. I am enjoying it.
"I have spent one year here, one year of hard work."
Georgia Mackay, 21, from Tauranga was graduating with a degree in nursing.
"I am excited, it's been three long, hard years."
