Study Services

School Overview

Ara Institute of Canterbury, formerly known as Christchurch Polytechnic, was established in 1906 and is the largest vocational and technical training institution on New Zealand’s South Island. The institute is fully owned by the New Zealand Government, holds Category 1 status from NZQA (the highest rating in New Zealand), and is also recognised by China’s Ministry of Education.

Ara currently has over 18,000 students and staff, enrolling students from diverse backgrounds worldwide each year, including approximately 1,800 international students. The institute offers more than 150 programmes spanning certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and postgraduate qualifications. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, Ara works closely with local businesses and industries to ensure that course content remains aligned with market demand, equipping graduates with highly practical skills.

Ara adopts small class sizes and frequent student-teacher interaction. Its teaching staff bring extensive industry experience and broad professional networks, providing comprehensive support for students’ academic and career development. Christchurch, where Ara is located, is the largest city on the South Island, surrounded by mountains, lakes, forests, and beaches. The city offers a moderate cost of living and is an ideal environment for focused study.

Popular Programmes

• Nursing and Midwifery
• Business and Accounting
• Engineering Technology (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
• Information Technology and Computing
• Architectural Technology and Interior Design
• Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts
• Arts and Design (Photography, Visual Communication)
• Sport and Exercise Science
• Broadcasting and Media Communications
• Applied Science (Veterinary Nursing, Animal Management)

Campus Locations

Ara has multiple campuses across the Christchurch and Timaru regions:

1. Christchurch City Campus

• Location: Christchurch city centre.
• Highlights: The institute’s largest teaching hub, featuring modern learning facilities including a bookshop, gymnasium, sports courts, health centre, career services centre, and a well-stocked library. The campus also houses a performing arts theatre, student art exhibition spaces, and outdoor recreation areas.

2. Timaru Campus

• Location: Timaru, close to the town centre.
• Highlights: Well-equipped facilities including a gymnasium, library, and a student-run restaurant. The surrounding area offers a wealth of activities such as horse riding, skiing, fishing, vineyard tours, and visits to an internationally renowned observatory.

How to Apply

1. Free assessment of your academic background, English proficiency, and study goals
2. Identify your target programme and intake date
3. Prepare application documents (transcripts, personal statement, references, etc.)
4. Submit your application and await your Offer
5. Apply for your student visa
6. Pre-departure briefing and airport pickup arrangement
7. Ongoing support, regular check-ins, and academic and pastoral guidance throughout your studies