Ara Institute of Canterbury Overview

Ara Institute of Canterbury is a premier government-owned vocational and applied tertiary education provider located in the South Island of New Zealand, with its main campus in Christchurch. Established in 2016 after the merger of CPIT and Aoraki Polytechnic, Ara is now part of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology, the national network of polytechnics.

Ara offers more than 150 industry-relevant programs across various fields, including business, engineering, IT, creative arts, hospitality, construction, social work, nursing, and more. Its teaching style emphasizes hands-on, practical learning, and most programs include work placements, internships, or project-based assessments.

Known for its strong industry partnerships, small class sizes, and support for international students, Ara prepares learners for real-world careers in New Zealand and abroad. Students benefit from state-of-the-art labs, studios, and facilities, as well as dedicated support services for academic success, accommodation, career counseling, and visa assistance.

Ara welcomes students from over 50 countries and maintains a strong commitment to diversity, sustainability, and innovation in education. With qualifications ranging from certificates to postgraduate diplomas, Ara is ideal for those seeking a practical, globally respected education pathway.

Website: https://www.ara.ac.nz
International Students Info: https://www.ara.ac.nz/study/international/