Ara Campuses

The Ashburton Campus of Ara Institute of Canterbury is a regional hub designed to serve the Mid Canterbury community with accessible and relevant education. This smaller campus offers a friendly, supportive environment where students can focus on practical, career-oriented learning. The facilities are tailored to meet the needs of local industries, ensuring students gain skills that are in demand.

• Primary Industries: Programs in agriculture, farming, and horticulture, reflecting the region’s strong rural economy.
• Trades: Training in construction, carpentry, and automotive skills for hands-on career paths.
• Business and Office Skills: Courses in administration, bookkeeping, and customer service for professional development.
• Health and Community Services: Education in caregiving and support roles to meet local healthcare needs.
• Hospitality: Practical training in food preparation and service for the local hospitality sector.

The Ashburton Campus focuses on applied learning, with an emphasis on real-world skills that prepare students for immediate employment or further study. Its smaller size allows for personalized attention from tutors and strong connections with the local community, fostering opportunities for work placements and networking. The campus is conveniently located in Ashburton, making it easily accessible for students from surrounding rural areas. Support services, including academic and career guidance, are available to help students succeed in their chosen fields. The campus plays a key role in supporting the local economy by training skilled workers who contribute to the region’s growth. Whether you're starting a career in agriculture, trades, or business, the Ashburton Campus provides a welcoming and practical learning environment to help you achieve your aspirations and make a positive impact in your community.

The Christchurch - City Campus (Trades) at Ara Institute of Canterbury specializes in vocational training for trades and technical skills. Located in Opawa, this campus provides a focused environment for students pursuing hands-on careers in various industries. The facilities are designed to simulate real-world work environments, ensuring students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

• Construction Trades: Programs in carpentry, plumbing, and painting to prepare students for the building industry.
• Automotive Engineering: Training in vehicle repair, maintenance, and heavy machinery operation.
• Electrical Trades: Courses focused on electrical installation, maintenance, and safety standards.
• Engineering Technology: Specialized programs in mechanical and fabrication engineering.
• Horticulture and Landscaping: Practical training in garden design, plant care, and sustainable practices.

This campus emphasizes industry-relevant skills, with workshops and equipment that mirror professional settings. Students benefit from small class sizes, allowing for personalized instruction from experienced tutors who are experts in their fields. The campus also fosters strong connections with local employers, providing opportunities for apprenticeships and job placements upon completion of studies. The focus on trades education ensures that graduates are job-ready, equipped with the technical expertise and problem-solving abilities needed in today’s workforce. Located in a convenient area of Christchurch, the campus offers easy access to public transport and local amenities, making it an ideal choice for students dedicated to mastering a trade. Whether you're entering the workforce for the first time or seeking to advance your skills, the City Campus (Trades) provides a supportive and practical learning environment to help you succeed in your chosen field.

The Christchurch - Madras Street Campus is the main campus of Ara Institute of Canterbury and serves as a central hub for a wide range of educational programs. This campus offers an extensive selection of courses catering to various fields of study, ensuring students have access to diverse career pathways. The campus is equipped with modern facilities and resources to support both theoretical and practical learning.

• Business and Accounting: Programs designed to equip students with skills in finance, management, and entrepreneurship.
• Engineering and Trades: Hands-on training in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, as well as construction and automotive trades.
• Health and Human Services: Courses in nursing, midwifery, and social services to prepare students for careers in healthcare and community support.
• Information Technology: Cutting-edge programs in software development, networking, and cybersecurity.
• Hospitality and Tourism: Training in culinary arts, hotel management, and tourism operations to meet industry demands.
• Creative Industries: Courses in art, design, music, and broadcasting for aspiring creatives.

With a focus on applied learning, the campus integrates real-world experiences through internships, industry partnerships, and state-of-the-art simulation labs. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment with access to academic advisors, career counseling, and student support services. The central location in Christchurch provides easy access to local businesses and cultural attractions, enhancing the student experience. This campus is ideal for those seeking a comprehensive education in a vibrant urban setting, with programs tailored to meet the needs of both local and international students. Whether you're starting a new career or upskilling, the Madras Street Campus offers a dynamic and inclusive space to achieve your goals.

The Oamaru Campus of Ara Institute of Canterbury is a regional center dedicated to providing education and training for the North Otago community. This campus offers a personalized and supportive learning environment, ideal for students seeking accessible education close to home. With a focus on practical skills, the campus meets the needs of local industries and employers.

• Primary Industries: Courses in agriculture, animal care, and horticulture, tailored to the region’s farming heritage.
• Trades and Technology: Training in construction and automotive skills for hands-on career opportunities.
• Business and Administration: Programs in office management and customer service for professional growth.
• Health and Community Care: Education in caregiving and support services to address local healthcare needs.
• Hospitality: Practical training in food preparation and service for the hospitality industry.

The Oamaru Campus emphasizes applied learning, ensuring students gain real-world experience through hands-on training and industry connections. Its smaller size fosters a close-knit community where students receive individualized support from experienced tutors. The campus is centrally located in Oamaru, making it convenient for students from surrounding areas. Support services, including academic assistance and career advice, are readily available to help students succeed. The campus plays an important role in the local economy by training skilled workers who contribute to the region’s development. Its programs are designed to be flexible, accommodating both full-time and part-time learners, as well as those balancing work and study. Whether you're pursuing a career in agriculture, trades, or community services, the Oamaru Campus offers a welcoming and practical environment to help you achieve your goals and make a meaningful impact in your community.

The Timaru Campus of Ara Institute of Canterbury serves the South Canterbury region, offering a variety of programs tailored to meet local community and industry needs. This campus provides a supportive and close-knit learning environment, ideal for students who prefer a smaller, more personalized educational setting. With modern facilities and dedicated staff, it ensures high-quality education and training.

• Business and Administration: Courses in management, accounting, and office skills for career starters or upskillers.
• Health and Wellbeing: Programs in nursing, health support, and community care to address regional healthcare demands.
• Trades and Technology: Training in construction, automotive, and engineering trades with hands-on workshops.
• Hospitality and Cookery: Practical courses in culinary arts and food service for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals.
• Primary Industries: Education in agriculture, horticulture, and animal care, reflecting the region’s rural focus.

The Timaru Campus is committed to fostering student success through applied learning and strong industry connections, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for employment. The campus offers flexible study options, including part-time and full-time programs, to accommodate diverse student needs. Its location in central Timaru provides easy access to local businesses, allowing for work experience opportunities and community engagement. Students benefit from a range of support services, including academic guidance and career advice, in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. The campus also plays a vital role in supporting the local economy by training skilled workers to meet regional demands. Whether you're a school leaver, career changer, or looking to enhance your skills, the Timaru Campus offers a welcoming environment with programs designed to help you achieve your professional and personal goals.