Ara institute of Canterbury
Upcoming Intake
Feb 2025
Tution Fee
Starts from 8,365 NZD
English Requirement
IELTS, TOEFL
Highlights
Ara Institute of Canterbury is a government-funded higher education provider with five campuses in New Zealand. The provider is one of the largest institutes of technology in New Zealand and it offers over 150 qualifications for students. These include graduate diplomas and degrees.
Today, around 17,000 students attend Ara each year. The institution also has nearly 2,000 international students from 50 different nationalities. Recently, the institute was named one of the highest-ranking higher education facilities by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) report.
Across the five campuses, the Ara Institute of Canterbury has a range of academic and leisure facilities. Also, at the Christchurch campus, there is a 24-hour computer suite with fast internet.
In addition, the institute has many leisure facilities and areas for students to enjoy.
Students have a variety of housing options when applying to Ara. If students are heading to the Christchurch campus, they can apply for apartment-style accommodation at Ōtautahi House. Here, students can live with fellow coursemates and access modern facilities like wifi and basic furnishings, including a bed, desk, wardrobe and shared kitchen space.
However, at the institute's other locations, students can find housing with a host family or in shared or private accommodation. Homestay options are more popular as students can stay with local residents and receive support from their host families and the university.
The Christchurch and Timaru campuses have gym memberships available. This provides students with gym access, fitness classes, social sports and a purpose-built climbing wall.
The institute has libraries on four separate campuses. Students can find ebooks, books, video resources, databases, study areas and private study rooms at the libraries.
Students can also find various small cafes or larger restaurants on campus to socialise outside of classes.
Ara has a vibrant and inclusive environment on all of its campuses. The institution has low student-to-tutor numbers and students receive the best individual support possible.
Also, students have opportunities to participate in extracurricular and social activities year-round. Many non-academic activities are arranged by students. Among them are orientation experiences, exhibitions, fashion shows, concerts, plays, musicals and cultural performances.
In addition, the student services run a range of sports, social, cultural, religious and academic clubs. Students can also contact the student services team to set up their own club or organisation at Ara.
Campuses
The University has three campuses in Christchurch.
1. Christchurch City campus
The Christchurch City campus is the largest one and is located in central Christchurch. There are bars, cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets nearby. The City campus is close to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Hagley Park, and the Christchurch Art Gallery.
The city is well-connected by public transport. The nearest bus stop is St. Asaph Street near Barbadoes Street. It’s a 1-minute walk away.
2. Woolston campus, Christchurch
The Woolston campus is the second campus in Christchurch and features extensive facilities for construction, automotive and engineering-related trades.
3. Manawa campus
This campus is home to Ara’s nursing, midwifery and medical imaging students. The campus is located opposite Christchurch Hospital and features several high-tech simulation rooms. Several shops, cafes, and supermarkets are within walking distance.
Christchurch is home to numerous historic buildings, such as the Canterbury Museum, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House. The city is also popular for the Christchurch Arts Festival and the New Zealand International Film Festival.
You can explore the Avon River and the Southern Alps and engage in several outdoor activities, such as snowboarding, skiing, and hiking. You can also surf, swim, and kayak along the beaches.
The central city also has pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, making it easier to navigate the city. You can explore the city’s cultural landmarks, such as the Christchurch Art Gallery, Isaac Theatre Royal, and the Court Theatre.
FAQs
Students must apply through the institute's application process online. Also, international students must provide evidence of English proficiency, necessary academic qualifications, a personal statement and visa documents.
