Was my wife eligible to apply for New Zealand immigration with her master's degree and around six and a half years of work experience?

Yes, your wife is eligible to apply for New Zealand immigration under the Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) with a master's degree and about six and a half years of work experience.

The SMC uses a points-based system. She can claim five points for her master's degree (NZQF Level 9). To reach the minimum six-point threshold for residency, she may need additional points from skilled work experience in New Zealand.

Key requirements:
- Age under 55
- Meet health and character standards
- IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) usually required
- Skilled job offer in New Zealand needed

Having enough points makes her eligible to apply, but approval depends on meeting all requirements and application details.