Ara Institute of Canterbury Overview
General Information
The Ara Institute of Canterbury is a leading tertiary education provider in Christchurch, New Zealand. Established in 2016 through the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic, it has a strong reputation for providing practical, hands-on education tailored to industry needs.
Campuses & Facilities
Ara operates multiple campuses across the Canterbury and Waitaki regions, including:
Christchurch City Campus (Main Campus) – Offers a diverse range of programs.
Sullivan Avenue Campus (Christchurch) – Specializes in trades education.
Timaru Campus – Serving South Canterbury students.
Ashburton & Oamaru Campuses – Providing local access to education.
The institute features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, creative arts studios, engineering workshops, and simulation suites for health sciences.
Academic Programs
Ara offers certificate, diploma, degree, and postgraduate programs across various fields:
Business & Management
Engineering & Architecture
Health & Nursing
Creative Arts & Design
Hospitality & Tourism
Information Technology
Science & Environment
Outdoor Education & Sustainability
Programs emphasize work-integrated learning, ensuring students gain real-world experience before graduating.
Student Life & Support Services
Over 14,000 students, including a diverse international student community.
Strong academic support, career guidance, and student well-being services.
Active student life with clubs, cultural events, and leadership opportunities.
Industry Connections & Career Readiness
Strong links with local and global industries, enhancing employability.
Offers internships, apprenticeships, and industry placements.
Graduates are highly sought after in growing industries with skill shortages.
Why Ara?
Practical, career-focused learning.
Modern facilities & experienced faculty.
Strong industry ties for job placement.
Affordable tuition & flexible study options.
Located in Christchurch, a vibrant and innovative city.
Why Study at Ara Institute of Canterbury?
1. Practical, Career-Focused Learning
Programs are designed with real-world industry input, ensuring graduates have job-ready skills.
Hands-on learning with internships, apprenticeships, and industry projects integrated into many courses.
Strong emphasis on work-integrated learning, giving students practical experience before they graduate.
2. High-Quality Education & Industry Recognition
Ara is a Category One provider, the highest rating from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Strong reputation for vocational training, applied research, and academic excellence.
Courses are recognized and respected by employers across New Zealand and internationally.
3. Modern Facilities & Advanced Learning Resources
State-of-the-art labs, creative studios, and simulation suites for hands-on training.
Engineering and trades workshops equipped with cutting-edge technology.
Health sciences simulation suites for nursing and medical students.
4. Strong Industry Connections & Employability
Collaborates with leading businesses and industries to provide internships, apprenticeships, and job placements.
Graduates are highly employable, with strong job prospects in high-demand industries.
Ara works closely with local and global companies, ensuring its programs meet industry needs.
5. Flexible Study Options & Pathways
Offers certificates, diplomas, degrees, and postgraduate programs, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Flexible study options including full-time, part-time, and online learning.
Pathways to universities and further education in New Zealand and beyond.
6. Supportive & Inclusive Learning Environment
Over 14,000 students, including a diverse international student community.
Offers academic support, career services, and student well-being programs.
Vibrant campus life with clubs, cultural events, and student leadership opportunities.
7. Affordable & Convenient Location
Based in Christchurch, a city known for its innovation, affordability, and student-friendly lifestyle.
Lower cost of living compared to other major New Zealand cities.
Well-connected campuses with easy access to public transport, housing, and job opportunities.
