The offer, which opened on October 9 and closes on November 30, is for $50 million of fixed-rate bonds with the ability to accept over-subscriptions of a further $50 million.
The support reflected the willingness of New Zealanders to put their savings to work in New Zealand for New Zealand, Dr Carr said.
The university was planning on investing as much as $500 million in capital projects in the next 10 years.
Funds raised through the bond issue would allow the university to accelerate its plans for developments such as building refurbishments, new buildings, ICT infrastructure and alternative technology.
Investors in the bond issue would be paid 7.25% interest for five years, with the rate then reset for a further five years.
Investors had the option of reducing the interest to zero for some or all of their bonds or could donate part or all of the sum owed on maturity, he said
"The philanthropic element of the bond issue is optional, but will allow investors to direct their support to higher education while tailoring their contribution in light of their own circumstances, which may change over the term of the bond."
