About Ashburton

Ashburton College is situated in the bustling hub of Mid Canterbury, the heart of New Zealand’s beautiful South Island. Ashburton has a population of 34,000 and is 85 kilometres away from Christchurch Airport. Ashburton experiences beautiful clear winters and long-lasting summers.

There are plenty of activities outside of school to keep you entertained. These include the new and stunning EA Network Centre that features several heated swimming pools, spa and steam room. There are multiple golf courses, an international hockey pitch, and a tennis centre, all in easy walking distance of the College. If you are a water enthusiast you can swim, row, water-ski or fish at Lake Hood. If you love the outdoors there are numerous breath-taking tramps and cycle tracks on your doorstep.

The College has the advantage of being the “right size”, and in the “right place”. We have higher than the national average academic results, exceptional sporting successes and have outstanding performances in art, drama and music. Every year a number of our students achieve national and international selection and success.

Stay as long as you can to explore Mid Canterbury to the fullest. With stunning snow-capped mountains as its backdrop and bordered by impressive braided rivers and crystal clear lakes, the scenery is so magnificent it will take your breath away.

Ashburton is one of the great secrets of New Zealand, with an inspiring range of both energetic and relaxing activities. Join us for a journey of exploration and exhilaration – we look forward to welcoming you.

Code of Practice

Quality Assurance

The Education Review Office (ERO) is a government department whose purpose is to evaluate and report publicly on the education and care of students in all New Zealand schools.

Our College is proud of our recent report, and it is a clear acknowledgment of the work done by staff to support the learning and achievement of all our students.

You can view the most recent ERO report for Ashburton College by clicking here.

Complaints

If an international student has a complaint about Ashburton College compliance with the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, they should try and resolve it by using the internal provider process in the first instance. If your complaint is not resolved, you can take your complaint further.

Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021

Introducing the New Code

When students come to study in New Zealand, schools have an important responsibility to ensure that students are well informed, safe and properly cared for. To support this, the New Zealand Government has developed the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021, which replaces the 2016 Code of Practice. Ashburton College is proud to be a Signatory to the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.

NZ Youth Law

If you need advice or clarity on the Laws for teenagers in New Zealand YOUTH LAW is a great place to receive free advice.

They can be contacted by email or phone.

They are a free service to give you advice on the laws in New Zealand.

0800 UTHLAW
0800 884 529
legal@youthlaw.co.nz

VIDEO On Youth LAW

International Student Testimonies

Please find below videos in German, Japanese & Chinese of three wonderful students who have attended Ashburton College. Also meet our Student Leaders and take a look around the College to see what opportunities are available, academic, sporting and cultural.

Tamako Doshabi, Japan

Shelly Zhang, China
Lara Linden, Germany
Ashcoll Opportunities

Lara Linden, Germany

I had a great time at Ashburton College. I met very good friends and enjoyed my classes a lot. One thing I really like about New Zealand Schools is the idea with the different house’s and the sports competitions. I also liked the wide range of different subjects, it was really hard to choose. My host families were amazing, I felt like I was part of the family and we had a lot of fun.

Kai Nakamura, Japan

My brother also attended Ashburton College as an international student and he shared with me his experiences, which included the opportunity to improve my English language skills. He was right, not only have I improved my English skills;

I have made a ton of kiwi friends on and off the Badminton court. It was really exciting when I won the Aoraki Badminton tournament! Outside of school my favourite place is the Ashburton Domain, there is nothing like it near my home in Japan. There I can play sports, BBQ and relax with friends.

Norma Meyer, Germany

Ashburton College has given me the chance to meet other international students and students from New Zealand. Everyone has been not only nice, but really helpful as well. The college itself is very modern and offers a wide range of activities to get involved with.

This year, I am excited to start playing rugby for the college. Rugby will be a great experience and a way to learn more about New Zealand culture.

Shelly Zhang, China

Ashburton College has done so much for me. I attended a lot of activities, made many international friends and experienced many new things. I have improved my English, as I communicated with my friends and teachers. I learned a lot from each class, especially in English class.

I am able to write a whole essay now! Ashburton College is a very international school, with many students from other countries.