Success is making my younger self proud.
Phoebe Conger
Bachelor of Musical Theatre (NASDA)
Success is feeling supported to support others.
Bernabe Campilan III
Bachelor of Social Work
Success is adding value and feeling fulfilled.
Zahra “Hasti” Piltan Shal
Bachelor of Applied Management
Success is starting a new career.
Danny “Raniera” Watson
Level 4 Te Reo Māori
Success is staying grounded to my values.
Andreana “Aleks” Bacay
Bachelor of Civil Engineering
Tū ki te ao, tau ana. My world is mine.
Tamanuhiri Parata
Pre-Trade Plumbing
Success is a job I love.
Luke Lamont
Broadcasting, Screen Production (NZBS)
Success is peace of mind.
Trinity Harris
Certificate in Carpentry
Success. Your way.
Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. It doesn’t follow a straight line, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone.
For some, it’s a first job or a new career. For others, it’s balance, confidence, or simply proving something to themselves.
At Ara, success is shaped around you — your goals, your pace, your life. You might be starting fresh, changing direction or picking up where you left off. You might be juggling study with work, whānau or everything in between.
We’re here to support the path you choose, with accessible entry points, practical learning, pathways for progression and people who understand that life doesn’t pause for study.
Because success isn’t just where you end up. It’s how you get there.
Take a step towards success
Wherever you’re starting from, an Ara qualification can help you:
- Prepare for your first job
- Start a new career direction
- Move up in your current job
- Get a recognised qualification that employers trust
- Build confidence through hands-on learning
- Create options for what comes next
Discover entry points for every learner
Not everyone starts in the same place — and that’s the point. We offer study options that can work as a first step, a fresh start or a step up the ladder.
This could suit you if you’re:
- Leaving school and figuring out your direction
- Shifting from university for a more hands-on learning environment
- Returning to study after a break
- Seeking to improve your general academic skills before higher-level study
- Changing careers or wanting more secure work
- Upskilling for a promotion or a new role
- New to Aotearoa and looking for a local qualification
Choose from a wide range of subjects
Pick something that matches your interests, your strengths and where you want to go next. If you’re not sure, start broad, then narrow it down with advice from our team.
- Animal and Laboratory Science
- Architecture and Construction Management
- Art and Design
- Business
- Digital Technologies
- Engineering
- English
- Foundation Studies
- Hair, Beauty and Massage
- Health
- Health Promotion, Nutrition, Sport and Exercise
- Hospitality, Food and Beverage
- Language and Education
- MAINZ DJing & Audio Engineering
- Māori and Pacific
- Music
- Music Theatre (NASDA)
- New Zealand Broadcasting School
- Support and Social Work
- Sustainability and Outdoor Education
- Trades
Learn from people who know the industry
Our tutors know what they’re teaching inside out — because they come from industry themselves. All have years of practical experience on the job and contacts to share with you. Many are highly respected in their fields, including internationally.
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Hana RewetiNursing & Health20 years as a registered nurse across acute and community care.
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Tom WhittakerEngineering & TradesChartered engineer with major infrastructure project experience.
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Priya NairInformation TechnologyFormer lead developer building software for global clients.
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Marcus LêHospitality & CulinaryAward-winning chef who has led kitchens across three countries.
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Sophie AdamsCreative IndustriesDesigner with a portfolio spanning brand, motion and product.