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Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
Formed in 2016 through the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic, Ara Institute of Canterbury is one of the leading tertiary…
About Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch
Formed in 2016 through the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic, Ara Institute of Canterbury is one of the leading tertiary institutions in the South Island and a top choice for international students looking to study in New Zealand. It brings together over 100 years of experience in vocational education. The university became a subsidiary of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology – in the year 2020. Ara Institute of Canterbury has a total of six campuses, among which three are main campuses that are located in Christchurch and the others across Canterbury and North Otago. All these campuses enroll around 19,000 students each year, out of which approximately 1,800 are international students who represent more than 50 nationalities. The institute is known for its industry-relevant training, low student-to-staff ratio, and modern, purpose-built facilities. Recognised internationally, Ara Institute of Canterbury also offers one of the best English language centres in New Zealand. As a member of the International Association of Universities, it stands out among top universities in New Zealand for career-focused learning and global diversity.
QS Ranking
Top ranked
Acceptance Rate
Varies
Tuition Fees
Contact for fees
Courses & Programmes
Bachelor of Applied Management (Event Management)
Apply Now →Bachelor of Applied Science (Human Nutrition)
Apply Now →Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Apply Now →Bachelor of Broadcasting Communications (Journalism)
Apply Now →Bachelor of Construction ( Construction Management Strand )
Apply Now →Bachelor of Design (Fashion Technology & Design)
Apply Now →Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical)
Apply Now →Bachelor of International Tourism and Hospitality Management
Apply Now →Bachelor of Midwifery
Apply Now →Graduate Certificate in Building Information Modelling (BIM)
Apply Now →Graduate Diploma in Applied Management
Apply Now →Graduate Diploma in Business Information Systems
Apply Now →Graduate Diploma in Construction Management (Level 7)
Apply Now →Master of Creative Practice
Apply Now →Master of Sustainable Practice
Apply Now →New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level-6)
Apply Now →New Zealand Diploma in Cookery (Advanced) (Level 4 & 5) with Cookery Strand
Apply Now →Postgraduate Diploma in Osteopathy
Apply Now →Postgraduate Diploma in Sustainable Practice
Apply Now →Scholarships
Rama Family Trust Scholarship
Type : Academic Level : UG Level Amount : NZ $1000
The Tait Foundation Scholarship
Type : Academic Level : UG Level Amount : NZ $2500
Kathryn Fraser Scholarship
Type : Academic Level : UG Level Amount : NZ $2500
Frequently Asked Questions
Christchurch experiences a range of weather conditions, often varying throughout the day. It is recommended to dress in layers to stay comfortable in changing temperatures. A warm jacket is essential during the winter months (June to August), and carrying a raincoat or umbrella is advisable due to occasional rainfall and the presence of the characteristic “nor’wester” winds.
Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is the closest airport, located approximately 12 km northwest of the city centre. It takes around 15 minutes by car to reach the Ara Christchurch City Campus. The airport is New Zealand’s second busiest, offering both domestic and international flight services.
The campus is well-connected by an extensive public transport network. Several bus routes, including numbers 140, 17, 3, 80, 95, 85, 1, 5, and 81, serve the area. Convenient bus stops such as Moorhouse Avenue near Madras Street and the Madras Street Terminus are located close to the campus.
Yes, students in Christchurch can benefit from the Metrocard system. This prepaid travel card offers reduced fares on local buses and other public transport, making commuting more affordable and convenient.
Ara permits credit transfer for equivalent courses completed at accredited institutions. To apply, students must submit official academic transcripts along with detailed course outlines for evaluation and approval.
Yes, relevant prior work experience may be considered for academic credit through Ara’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process. Applicants are required to provide supporting documents such as work portfolios, references, or other evidence demonstrating relevant competencies and learning outcomes.
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