About
Ara Institute of Canterbury, formerly known as Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT), is a leading vocational and applied technology institute in New Zealand, renowned for its hands-on, industry-focused education. It excels in areas such as applied trades, creative industries, health sciences, and business, offering practical qualifications designed for direct employment. For international students, Ara provides a welcoming environment with a dedicated International Student Support team offering comprehensive assistance, including English language pathways and academic guidance. The institute is particularly known for its strong industry connections and work-integrated learning opportunities, ensuring graduates are job-ready. A distinctive characteristic is its commitment to practical, real-world skills development, making it an excellent choice for students seeking career-oriented qualifications.
Background
The Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology (CPIT), formerly the Christchurch Technical College, was an institute of technology in Christchurch, New Zealand. It merged with Aoraki Polytechnic and became Ara Institute of Canterbury in 2016. CPIT provided full-time and part-time education in technologies and trades. It was the largest polytechnic and institute of technology in the South Island (25,000 students) and one of the leading institutions of its kind in the country. In New Zealand's ranking, the Performance Based Research Fund, based on the scientific output of all employees, CPIT ranked 4th among all institutes of technology in New Zealand. It offered a comprehensive range of programmes, which covered almost all subject areas. CPIT specialised in Music Arts, Visual Art & Design, Nursing, Applied Management (Business), Engineering, Applied Science, Education, Information Technology, and Architecture. CPIT hosted New Zealand's only school for radio journalism and communication, the New Zealand School of Broadcasting. It had a student population from more than 50 countries.
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Quick facts
Nearby universities
Also in Christchurch
Elsewhere in New Zealand
- Auckland University of Technology · Auckland
- Massey University · Palmerston North
- Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology · Nelson
- Open Polytechnic · Lower Hutt
- University of Auckland · Auckland
- University of Otago · Dunedin
- University of Waikato · Hamilton
- Victoria University of Wellington · Wellington
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Wondering if Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.