Ara Institute of Canterbury

Ara Institute of Canterbury, commonly known as Ara, is a leading institute of technology in Canterbury, New Zealand, providing applied tertiary education and career-focused training across a wide range of disciplines. Ara was established in 2016 through the merger of Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT) and Aoraki Polytechnic, bringing together the educational expertise and resources of two established New Zealand institutions. The institute offers programmes from Level 1 through Level 9, covering areas such as business, engineering, architecture, nursing, creative arts, hospitality, sport, nutrition, health promotion, computing, science, languages, outdoor education, and broadcasting. Its programmes are designed in close consultation with industry to ensure students develop practical, relevant skills that support employment and career development. Many programmes also provide opportunities for work placements and industry experience, allowing learners to apply classroom knowledge in professional environments. Ara has around 14,000 students enrolling each year, including a significant international student population, with staff and students representing more than 50 countries. The institute is also recognised for its English-language training provision and international learning environment. The name Ara is derived from the Māori word meaning path or journey, reflecting the institution’s focus on supporting students through their educational and career journeys. In 2020, Ara became part of Te Pūkenga, New Zealand’s national network of institutes of skills and technology, alongside other institutes of technology and polytechnics. Following government reforms to vocational education, Ara returned to regional governance and became an independent institution again on 1 January 2026. This transition marked a move away from the national mega-polytechnic structure and restored Ara’s independent regional identity. Overall, Ara combines practical education, industry engagement, diverse subject options, international learning opportunities, and career-focused training, making it an important tertiary education provider for domestic and international students seeking applied qualifications and employment-oriented skills in New Zealand.