Diocesan School for Girls and Kristin School are both in Auckland, about 17 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Diocesan School for Girls also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are NZ$22,832 - 53,941 at Diocesan School for Girls and NZ$500 - 29,056 at Kristin School, which puts Diocesan School for Girls roughly 160% higher. Diocesan School for Girls takes pupils from 3 to 18, and Kristin School from 0 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 1,700 and 1,800 pupils. Typical class sizes are 20 at Diocesan School for Girls and 15 at Kristin School.
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Diocesan School for Girls
Auckland, New Zealand
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Kristin School
Auckland, New Zealand
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year NZ$22,832 - 53,941 | Fees / year NZ$500 - 29,056 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 0 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding) | Type Co-educational |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (DP), IB (MYP), Bespoke Curriculum | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,700 | Pupils 1,800 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size 20 | Typical class size 15 |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1903 | Opened 1973 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location The Diocesan School for Girls is located in Epsom, Auckland. The Clyde Street address places it in a residential suburb near the city fringe. Seven buses transport students from across Auckland to the school gates each day, with GPS-tracked routes and a pay-as-you-ride system using student IDs. The campus is accessible to a diverse families via these transport arrangements. | Location 360 Albany Highway, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand. Based in Albany on Auckland's North Shore, the campus sits on a purpose-built 50-acre site set among native bush. A fleet of Kristin buses provides transport to multiple routes around Auckland. |
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Stages
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Stages Preschool to Year 13; Junior School Preschool - Year 6; Junior High School Years 7-10; Senior High School Years 11-13; Boarding Years 7-13. | Stages Early Learning to Senior School (Early Childhood Education 6 months–5 years; Kindergarten through Year 13) |
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School type
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School type Independent Anglican all-girls day and boarding school | School type Independent, co-educational school |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support — | Additional learning support — |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation New Zealand | Country affiliation New Zealand |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Anglican | Religious affiliation non-denominational |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure — |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details Seven buses operate daily, transporting over 300 girls from across Auckland to the school gates. Buses are GPS-tracked, reach by 8am, and depart Dio at 3:40pm. Routes include Eastern, Grey Lynn/Herne Bay, Pt Chevalier/Herne Bay, Glendowie/St Heliers, Stonefields, Mt Roskill/Mt Eden, Helensville, Devonport Shuttle and other connections. | Bus service details Dedicated Kristin buses operate for Kindergarten through Senior School with routes across Auckland. Drivers know students by name. Route information is available by selecting AM or PM tabs on the bus route page. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Registration and Enrolment Fees - Registration fee: NZD 300.00 (all applications). This fee is non‑refundable. - Enrolment (acceptance) fee: NZD 1,750.00 (all year levels). This fee is additional to tuition and is non‑refundable. Tuition fees by year group (2026 academic year amounts) - Foundation Class (Preschool): NZD 619.89 per week with ECE contribution; NZD 704.89 per week without ECE contribution. For four‑day attendance the published amounts are NZD 478.92 (with ECE) and NZD 563.92 (without ECE). - Junior School (Year 1–Year 6): NZD 26,786.00 per annum; billed as NZD 6,696.50 per term (quarter). - Junior High and Senior High (Year 7–Year 13): NZD 30,916.00 per annum; billed as NZD 7,729.00 per term (quarter). - Building levy (Foundation–Year 13): NZD 800.00 per annum; NZD 200.00 per term. This is charged in addition to tuition. Course / subject fees (per student, where applicable) - Foundation Class: NZD 125.00 per year. - Junior School (Year 1–6): NZD 330.00 per year. - Year 7: NZD 335.00 per year. - Year 8: NZD 330.00 per year (additional NZD 40 for Art Pack if required). - Year 9: NZD 265.00 per year (some subjects such as Material Design, Food Design and Visual Arts carry additional costs). - Year 10: NZD 330.00 per year (additional subject costs apply for certain practical subjects). - Senior High (Years 11–13): Course fees vary by subject and options; individual senior option/course fees apply. Boarding fees - Innes House boarding (Years 9–13): NZD 21,960.00 per annum; NZD 5,490.00 per term (quarter). Boarding is an additional charge to day tuition. Other regular or likely costs (examples and how they are billed) - Incidental and activity charges: stationery, class trips, photographs, laptop charges, sports activities, outdoor education, specialist subject materials, and Parents & Friends Association subscriptions are charged in addition to tuition and are invoiced termly as required. - Uniform and clothing: items are sold through the school shop; typical item prices (guides) include examples such as a school blazer (around NZD 240), Dio hoodie (around NZD 85), house T‑shirt (around NZD 32), swimwear (from about NZD 75–85), and other items. Uniform prices are indicative and subject to change. Uniform purchases and any returns/exchanges are handled through the school shop. - Alumnae Association one‑off fee on entry: NZD 700.00 (non‑refundable). Billing schedule and payment terms - Billing frequency options: quarterly billing (per term), annually in advance, or ten monthly instalments (automatic payments). Accounts are normally paid by direct debit/automatic payment. - Payment methods accepted: direct debit/automatic payment and internet banking (bank transfer). Credit cards and EFTPOS are not available for fee payments. The school provides bank account details for internet banking on account documentation. - Accounts are due on receipt of invoice. Parents are required to maintain current payment arrangements; unpaid accounts may incur collection costs or interest and may result in required withdrawal until fees are brought up to date. Refunds and withdrawal notice (domestic and general rules) - Registration and enrolment (acceptance) fees are non‑refundable. - Notice of withdrawal: a minimum of one term's written notice to the Principal is required to withdraw a student; if proper notice is not given, one term's fees are payable in lieu of notice. Fees remain due even if a student is unable to attend at the start of term for any reason. The Board does not undertake to remit or refund fees in lieu of notice for illness, quarantine, or other causes. - Fee Protection Scheme: on payment of the first term's fees, a Fee Protection Scheme is included which, in cases of the death or terminal illness of a fee‑paying parent or guardian (subject to conditions and age limits), provides for payment of fees for the remainder of the student's education; this scheme does not cover incidental charges and does not apply to international students. Refunds and cancellation rules for international students - International student refund entitlements and procedures differ and are governed by the school's International Student Fees Policy. Refunds for voluntary withdrawal, failure to obtain a visa, or cancellation by the school have specified timeframes and minimum tuition‑fee deductions (for example minimum ten weeks' tuition in some circumstances) and require written notice; detailed conditions and refund calculations are set out in the International Student Fees Policy. Practical notes on invoicing and account administration - Invoices are issued for fees and additional termly incidental charges; the school expects payment arrangements (direct debit/automatic payment) to be in place. Only one invoice is issued per student; if a third party is nominated to pay fees, that person remains additionally responsible unless otherwise agreed. Unpaid accounts may be subject to collection action. Summary of key headline amounts (NZD) - Registration fee: NZD 300.00 (non‑refundable). - Enrolment (acceptance) fee: NZD 1,750.00 (non‑refundable). - Junior School (Y1–Y6): NZD 26,786.00 per annum / NZD 6,696.50 per term. - Year 7–13 (day tuition): NZD 30,916.00 per annum / NZD 7,729.00 per term. - Boarding (Innes House): NZD 21,960.00 per annum / NZD 5,490.00 per term. If you require a compact extract of just the numeric fee lines (for database fields) those figures above correspond to the school's published 2026 fee schedule and the international fee policy for international‑student refund rules. | Fee details Application and Entrance Fees - Application fee (payable on submission; non-refundable): NZD 300 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Entrance fee (required to confirm acceptance; non-refundable): NZD 900 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Kristin Education Bond (non-interest bearing; payable on acceptance and repaid when the student leaves provided correct notice and accounts are clear): NZD 3,000 for Junior/Middle/Senior and International applicants. - Kindergarten-specific charges: Entrance Fee NZD 200 (non-refundable) and Kristin Education Bond NZD 500. Tuition fees — Early Learning Centre and Kindergarten (consolidated) - With 20 hours ECE funding (Full day 8:00am–4:00pm): Tuition Fee per term NZD 5,518; per month NZD 2,207. Activity fee per term NZD 90 (Total per term NZD 5,608; per month NZD 2,243). - Without 20 hours ECE funding (Full day 8:00am–4:00pm): Tuition Fee per term NZD 7,174; per month NZD 2,870. Activity fee per term NZD 90 (Total per term NZD 7,264; per month NZD 2,906). Tuition fees — Domestic students (2026) — annual and instalments - Junior School (Years 0–6): Annual tuition NZD 24,021. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 6,005.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 2,402.10 per month. - Middle School (Years 7–10): Annual tuition NZD 29,669. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 7,417.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 2,966.90 per month. - Senior School (Years 11–13): Annual tuition NZD 30,291. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 7,572.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 3,029.10 per month. Tuition fees — International students (2026) — annual and instalments - Junior School (Years 0–6): Annual tuition NZD 42,195. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 10,548.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 4,219.50 per month. - Middle School (Years 7–10): Annual tuition NZD 52,053. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 13,013.25 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 5,205.30 per month. - Senior School (Years 11–13): Annual tuition NZD 53,135. Term instalment (four equal instalments) = NZD 13,283.75 per term. Monthly amount if paid by 10-month direct debit = NZD 5,313.50 per month. Billing schedule and payment terms - Direct Debit over 10 months: due on the 20th of each month from February to November. Monthly amounts equal the annual tuition divided by 10. - Direct Debit termly instalments: four equal instalments due on 20 February, 20 April, 20 July and 20 October (term instalments equal the annual tuition divided by 4). - Single payment discount: a 1% discount on the annual tuition fee when the full year tuition is paid by 15 December of the prior year; to arrange payment via accountsreceivable@kristin.school.nz. - Credit card, Alipay or WeChat payments incur a bank surcharge of 1.4%. - Fees billed for incidental items (co‑curricular activities, camps, IB exam fees, etc.) are charged to the school account as they arise and are communicated to families in advance. Additional recurring and one‑off costs - Development Contribution (annual, per child): NZD 1,150. - Activity Fee (covers field trips and curriculum-related activities): up to NZD 699 (varies by year level). - Kristin Alumni Association Fee (one‑off on entry; lifetime membership; non-refundable): NZD 500. - Uniform (new students can expect approximate initial cost): NZD 1,100 for a full uniform; second‑hand options available through school sales. - Digital learning: Year 4–6 iPad lease (managed and owned by the school until student finishes Junior School, then transferred to family) estimated NZD 1,600. Years 7–13 bring-your-own-laptop. - Bus fares: dependent on route and distance; concession cards available for casual users. - International-specific extras: homestay accommodation NZD 410 per week; English acquisition lessons (if required) NZD 1,850 per term; medical insurance approximately NZD 650 per year. - Other incidental charges: co‑curricular activities, outdoor education (camp) charges and IB Diploma exam fees are billed to the school account when applicable. Sibling discounts - A sibling discount applies to tuition only: 10% off tuition for the third sibling attending Kristin Junior–Senior School (excludes Little Doves ELC and Kindergarten). The discount increases to 15% for the fourth and subsequent siblings. Refunds, transfers and fee protection - Entrance fees and the alumni fee are non‑refundable. Kristin Education Bonds are repaid when the student leaves provided the required notice has been given and all accounts are paid. - International students: prepaid tuition and certain annual fees must be paid in full by set deadlines for visa processing; fees are not refundable within the first 12 months if an international student gains permanent residence or a work permit and seeks to transfer to domestic fees. In later years, a full term's notice and evidence of change of status are required before a fee change will be applied. - Tuition Fee Protection: prepaid tuition fees are held in a reserve; at the beginning of each term a quarter of pre‑paid tuition fees are transferred from the reserve to the school's income account to ensure the pre‑paid portion can be identified at any time. Accepted payment methods and surcharges - Direct debit (termly instalments or over 10 months) and single upfront payments are accepted. Credit card, Alipay and WeChat are accepted but incur a 1.4% bank surcharge. Single upfront payments eligible for a 1% discount if paid by the specified deadline. Bank transfer and direct debit arrangements are used for regular instalments. Notes on incidental timing obligations - Certain categories of fees (for example, full-year tuition, homestay, alumni fee in the entry year, activity and development contribution, and medical insurance) are required to be paid in full by the deadlines set for international enrolment to permit timely visa issuance and renewal. |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Boarding at Dio accommodates up to 57 Year 9–13 students, including international students. Boarders live in four houses; Middle School residents stay in 4–6 dorm rooms and Senior students in twin shared rooms. A daily routine includes wake times of 6:45–7:20am, departure for school at 8:20am, hot lunch at 1:00pm and dinner at 5:30pm; middle-school study is supervised 6:30–7:30pm, while seniors study in their rooms. Bedtimes start from 9:30pm. Each wing has a bathroom and toilet for 6–7 girls, and wifi is available until 11pm. Boarding scholarships are available through Doris Innes House Trust, contributing up to 50% of boarding fees for up to five years. | Boarding arrangements Homestay accommodation: Kiwi host families; international students usually live with a host family arranged by Kristin's International Services. Host families are carefully selected and police checked to ensure safety and welfare. The homestay provides a fully furnished bedroom with study facilities, three meals a day plus snacks, and transport to school and activities as needed. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement The uniform is blue, red and white and is worn across Foundation School, Junior School, Junior High School and Senior School. The summer uniform is worn in Terms 1 and 4 and the winter uniform in Terms 2 and 3. The Diocesan Shop is the exclusive stockist of the uniform, with second-hand options available and online ordering available. A new Junior High School uniform was introduced for 2025 and will be phased in over two years, fully in place by 2027. | Uniform requirement Kristin has a formal uniform. An on-site uniform shop sells items with fittings by appointment; some items can be purchased direct from Argyle Online; secondhand uniform sales are held regularly. House colours are used in PE and in house T-shirts as part of the school's house system. |
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Food options
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Food options Boarding meals include a hot lunch at 1:00pm and dinner at 5:30pm; meals are prepared in well-equipped kitchens and eaten in the dining facilities, with middle school meals taken in the main dining hall and senior students eating in their houses; wifi is available in the boarding houses until 11pm. | Food options For international students in homestay, food is provided by the host family: three meals a day plus snacks; breakfast typically includes cereal and toast, lunch is usually a sandwich, and dinner is typically meat with vegetables. |
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House system
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House system Boarders live in four houses; rosters include setting tables for dinners and supporting staff with small tasks around the houses; middle school boarders reside in 4–6 dorm rooms while senior boarders occupy twin shared rooms. | House system The school uses a house system; house colours feature on PE shirts and House T-Shirts; House Deans oversee house matters in the Senior School. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Diocesan School for Girls is an independent Anglican school governed by the Diocesan School Board of Governors. The governance board oversees the school to deliver the vision of being more than you imagined and supports a dual pathway through IB and NCEA, while maintaining the school's Anglican character through chaplaincy, service learning and religious studies. | Governance and ownership Kristin School is owned by a charitable trust and governed by a Board of Governors comprising four Trustees and six Parent Governors. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Junior High School follows the New Zealand Curriculum; Senior High School offers two senior qualification pathways: the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB). In 2025 Year 11 draws on Level 1 NCEA content and the NZ Curriculum to prepare for NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the IB Diploma, providing a coherent pathway to either qualification. | Curriculum details The school offers an International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum World School with dual curriculums: IB and NCEA; senior students choose between the IB Diploma Programme and NCEA. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio Junior High School has small class sizes with low teacher-to-student ratios. | Student teacher ratio Small class sizes; senior school classes have an average of 15 students. |
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Exam results
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Exam results In 2024, 98.3% of leavers attained NCEA Level 3 and 97.2% attained University Entrance. | Exam results The school has a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma and 97% of students achieving University Entrance (UE) in 2024. |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression 100% university entrance in 2025; IB Diploma graduates continue their studies in New Zealand and overseas. | Higher education progression 97% of students achieved University Entrance (UE) in 2024. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Gifted students have mentoring opportunities, including performance and composition programmes with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, and dance and choreography workshops with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. | Gifted and talented — |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning Circles of Care extend pastoral support beyond classmates to include housemates, buddies, tutors, Deans, Chaplains and family. The school offers counselling, health and chaplaincy services, careers advice and personalised tutoring, with someone always available for care and guidance. Deans and year-based tutor groups meet daily to discuss wellbeing and individual goals. Circle Leaders and Orientation Leaders provide peer support for Year 7 students and new Year 9 students, while Buddies help newcomers settle in. Chaplains support faith and personal growth as an everyday part of school life, and the on-site Health Centre provides nursing care. Waiora provides additional learning and wellbeing pathways for all learners. | Social & emotional learning The school emphasises intellectual and personal development through academics, experiential learning, service and leadership. It aims to develop students who are curious, caring and responsible global citizens within an environment that supports wellbeing. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) Waiora is the learning area that supports neurodiverse learners and those needing recovery or extension, offering individualised plans developed with whānau and staff. Support options include high and complex needs support, learning support classes, targeted short-term interventions and access to Special Assessment Conditions. Gifted and Talented programmes provide extension and acceleration opportunities, with Waiora staff mentoring students on accelerated pathways to balance challenge, wellbeing and success. The service partners with families and teachers to develop independence and confidence in learning. | Special educational needs (SEN) — |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language The English Language (EL) Department helps international students feel welcome and safe and supports language acquisition alongside whole-school learning. English Language Learners (ELLs) are supported, with lunchtime tutorials and mentoring sessions available. EL teachers work closely with students daily to monitor progress and wellbeing. | English as an additional language — |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing Three counsellors are available to support staff and students. Chaplains nurture faith and personal growth and provide confidential care as part of everyday school life. The Buddy and Circle Leader systems offer peer support, and the Health Centre provides on-site nursing care for student health needs. The pastoral framework, including tutors and Deans, supports wellbeing and goal setting for every student. | Mental wellbeing — |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding The Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice provides schools with a framework for the care and support of students. The Pastoral Care Team, the Director of International Students and the International Student Support Coordinator provide comprehensive care for international students, ensuring a smooth transition. Regular international student meetings and one-on-one interviews throughout the year help assist students with settling into the school and receiving ongoing support. | Safeguarding — |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The Dio campus includes state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings and exceptional spaces for learning. It features a historic Chapel, a purpose-built Arts Centre, a high-tech science and innovation block, and a multi-purpose indoor heated pool. The campus sits on landscaped grounds in Epsom, about 15 minutes from Auckland's CBD and close to Newmarket. It offers purpose-built performance spaces for the arts and a MakerSpace that supports hands-on, STEAM learning. The campus demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and high-quality learning environments. | Facilities overview The Kristin campus spans 50 acres of park-like grounds with modern facilities. It provides well-resourced classrooms and laboratories, complemented by an extensive library, auditoriums, a media studio, and sports facilities. The grounds include gardens, age-specific playgrounds and expansive natural spaces for exploration. The campus supports intellectual, physical and emotional development. It enables a wide range of learning experiences across the sciences, technology, arts and physical education. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The Dio sports program emphasizes participation, competition and high performance, with more than 85% of students taking part. Junior High offers a wide range of sports codes including athletics, badminton, basketball, cricket, cycling, hockey, netball, swimming, tennis, water polo and more; From Year 9 onward, additional options include snowboarding, lacrosse, rowing and table tennis. The sports department is led by experienced professionals, including the Director of Sport Angie Winstanley-Smith, with coaching and mentorship. The school maintains strong connections with local clubs and regional sporting organisations to support trips, competitions and events. The Dio Swim School provides two indoor heated pools for swimming, health and fitness. | Sports facilities Kristin offers a wide range of sporting facilities. The campus includes a competition-sized hockey turf with stadium lighting, rugby and football pitches, and multiple cricket pitches and football fields. There is a multi-purpose indoor facility named Tūrama for netball, basketball or tennis. The hockey turf is located at the rear of the Junior School and is equipped with stadium lighting. Kristin has two gymnasiums—the Roy Munn Gym in the Junior School and the Old Gym near Gate 1—and a rock climbing wall used in Outdoor Education. The Institute of Golf is nearby and provides a driving range with 10 undercover bays. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities The campus houses a purpose-built Arts Centre and a high-tech science and innovation block to support STEM learning. It uses state-of-the-art, sustainable buildings to facilitate teaching and learning. A Junior School MakerSpace provides zones for construction, digital learning, soft and hard materials, a green screen, cooking and hard materials, with LEGO, robots and a 3D printer. The Arts Centre and science block are complemented by dedicated spaces for performance and experimentation. The Chapel is a central part of school life, reflecting the longstanding spiritual and cultural heart of the Dio community. | Academic facilities The Science and Technology Centre provides 16 teaching spaces and laboratories, arranged around a central atrium with social spaces, ample natural lighting, and energy-efficient heating and cooling. The Library and Information Centre (LIC) houses the library, Information Services, a Senior Study Centre, Senior School Administration, a public gallery and conference facilities. The Senior Study Centre includes a study room and a senior common room with an external courtyard. The Canon Creative Studio is the hub of media production, featuring a blackout studio, a nine-metre-wide green screen with ARRI lighting, Apple M2 Macbooks for editing and Canon cameras and lenses. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities Performing Arts offers specialist teaching in Music, Singing, Dance and Drama, orchestras and choirs, annual productions and opportunities to work with major arts organisations such as the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and NBR New Zealand Opera. The Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award provides Bronze, Silver and Gold levels with four award sections: Skills, Physical Recreation, Voluntary Service and Adventurous Journey. The Dio Swim School operates two indoor heated pools for swimming, health and fitness. The After School Activity Programme provides additional activities beyond the core curriculum. Outdoor Education (EOTC) includes field trips and outdoor experiences as part of activities beyond the classroom. | Extra curricular facilities Arts and performing arts facilities include the Dove Theatre (approximately 200 seats) and the Auditorium (over 1,000 seats), with the Arts Centre connecting to music suites, drama and dance studios. The Canon Creative Studio supports media production for student projects. The LIC provides a public gallery and conference facilities for exhibitions and events. Kristin offers co-curricular opportunities in Performing Arts, Sports, Volunteer and Leadership, and Experiential Learning. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Early in 1903, Bishop Moore Richard Neligan arrived in Auckland to begin his ministry as the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Auckland. He decided to establish an Anglican girls' school modelled on the British high schools to bring education and Anglican life together. His vision was to offer the best scholarship available across the colony within a Diocesan School for Girls, on sound Anglican lines. Today, Neligan's vision informs the school's holistic educational, spiritual and ethical approach from Foundation Class to Year 13. | History The school was founded in 1973 by a group of parents seeking quality, holistic education. It began with 42 students. The school is owned by a charitable trust and governed by a Board of Governors with four Trustees and six Parent Governors. Founding patrons remain active and valued members of the Kristin community, providing a direct connection to the school's origins. |
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Community
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Community Diocesan has enjoyed a strong sense of community for more than 100 years. Fundraising priorities include the Ko Tātou Scholarship Fund, the Chapel restoration, and the redevelopment of the Shrewsbury Building, with opportunities to support other areas of school life such as sport and the arts. Support helps ensure the Dio girls continue to be more than they imagined. For further information about directed support or bequests, contact the Director of Development, Angela Coe. | Community Service and the community have always been a vital part of Kristin. Getting involved with the school community connects families with daily life at Kristin. The Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) facilitates activities and events and serves as the parent body. Founding patrons remain active and valued members of the community, and former students frequently return to Kristin with their own children. The community includes international and cultural groups, with ethnic parent committees for Chinese, Korean, German, Russian, Japanese, Salaam and Hispanic communities. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association Dio Parents and Friends is an incorporated society that fosters a strong sense of community among Dio families, supports the school in its endeavours and enhances the Dio experience. Getting involved means joining social events and fundraising activities organized by a dedicated committee. Membership is automatic for all Dio School families, with an annual subscription of $35 payable through the school account. Volunteer opportunities include helping in the School Cafeteria, with volunteers rostered one day per term. Throughout the year, Parents & Friends hosts events such as New Student Welcome Morning Tea, New Student Welcome Picnic, New Parents' Cocktail Party, Father & Daughter Breakfast, and an End of Year Cocktail Party. Initiatives include Dio Charms, the Dio House Tour: Houses for Causes, the Dio School Cafeteria, and the Herb and Vegetable Garden. | Parent teacher association Kristin Family and Friends (KFF) is the parent body and facilitates activities and events on behalf of the school, providing opportunities for families to participate. Examples of events include the Summer Carnival, International Peace Night Concert, Wednesday Walks, and Second-Hand Uniform Sales. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual MakerSpace provides a digitally capable learning environment where students explore STEAM through hands-on projects. It features LEGO, robotics, sewing machines, a 3D printer and dedicated zones for construction, digital learning, soft materials and hard materials. Maker education plans integrate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics to encourage inquiry, collaboration and creative problem-solving. Students are supported to pursue their interests and develop practical, real-world applications. | Academic & intellectual The school participates in mathematics competitions, including the European Girls' Maths Olympiad, Inter School Maths Olympiad, Auckland Maths Olympiad, Mathex, Calcex and the New Zealand Maths Olympiad. The co-curricular programme includes enrichment opportunities, workshops, futures evening and futures camp, and university visits to extend learning beyond the classroom. The school is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and offers IB Diploma pathways and international placements in line with its international curriculum. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Dio offers specialist teaching in Music, Singing, Dance and Drama. A Performing Arts Director coordinates co-curricular opportunities and mentoring with professional ensembles; Gifted students have performance and composition programmes with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra, plus dance workshops with the Royal New Zealand Ballet. Students regularly compete, perform and excel at regional and national levels; Shakespeare Festival, Sheilah Winn Festival of Shakespeare in Schools and Stage Challenge are among the productions and festivals available. Regular opportunities allow beginners to progress to high-level performers. | Arts & creative The Performing Arts program encompasses music, art, dance and drama for students in Junior through Senior School. The program includes award-winning productions and practical theatre experiences in a fully functioning theatre environment. Our musical productions include Disney's Lion King KIDS, Frozen JR, the Addams Family and Disney's The Little Mermaid JR, among others. There are choirs, orchestras, chamber music, contemporary ensembles and itinerant music tuition across more than 20 instruments. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language English Language (EL) support helps international students study alongside domestic students, with ESL provision and targeted tutorials. Lunchtime tutorials and mentoring assist with language development and academic progress. The school offers language activities through the After School Activity Programme, including French and Chinese. The Lunar New Year Festival provides a cultural celebration and learning opportunity for Dio's diverse community. | Cultural & language As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Kristin offers long-term placements through its International Programme and short-term placements by arrangement. Language, cultural and service trips enrich language learning and provide immersive experiences, with the Dovetail Exchange Programme enabling Middle and Senior School students to live and study in other cultures. Kristin participates in the Global Alliance for Innovative Learning (GAIL), linking with partner schools and offering annual GAIL conventions. The International brochure is available in English, Korean, Japanese, Spanish and Italian. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies More than 30 co-curricular sports codes provide broad participation, with 85% of students taking part. The sport program emphasizes participation, competition and high performance and includes opportunities to compete at regional, national and international levels. The After School Activity Programme in the Junior School offers cookery, art, chess, French, Chinese and performing arts, alongside sports and other activities to broaden hobbies and social engagement. These programmes extend learning beyond the classroom. | Social & hobbies Co-curricular opportunities include Performing Arts and Sports, with more than 20 sporting codes and top-quality facilities on-site. Performing Arts spans choir, orchestras, chamber music, jazz and other ensembles, and includes major productions such as Disney's The Lion King KIDS, Frozen JR, The Addams Family and The Little Mermaid JR. Dance programmes, theatre activities and theatre productions provide broad opportunities for creative and collaborative work, including Dance in the Dove and Theatre/Drama activities. Toastmasters and other clubs operate as part of Kristin's co-curricular life. |
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Community & service
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Community & service The Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award challenges students to dream big and discover their potential. The programme spans Bronze, Silver and Gold and includes four sections: Skills, Physical recreation, Voluntary Service and Adventurous Journey. It emphasizes service to the community, personal development and wellbeing, and is recognized by employers and universities worldwide. The Gold Award fosters self-confidence, resilience and lifelong leadership skills. | Community & service Leadership and service go hand in hand at Kristin; as an IB World School, leadership and service are integrated to benefit the school and wider community. Through leadership roles and active community-minded groups, students learn to support peers and engage in service activities; programmes align with the PYP Exhibition, MYP Community Project and IB Diploma CAS. Kristin has ongoing partnerships with community organisations such as Ronald McDonald House, Restoring Rosedale Park and Wairau Special Valley School. Experiential Learning also includes service learning opportunities and overseas experiences. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership development is provided through the Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award and through Dio's formal leadership pathways, including School Leadership and Building Leadership programs. The Duke of Edinburgh award cultivates self-motivation, teamwork and project management, building applicable life skills. Dio also maintains a structured leadership framework within its governance and leadership teams. | Leadership & professional Leadership and service roles are structured to provide learning and growth that complement the curriculum. Through ongoing partnerships with community organisations, students engage in meaningful service projects. The Senior School offers mentoring, enrichment opportunities, workshops, futures evening, futures camp and university visits to support career development and future planning. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport is a major wellbeing pillar with more than 85% participation and the school offers over 30 sport codes, emphasizing participation, competition and personal bests. The Sports Department supports athletes with coaching and leadership opportunities, and Girls' wellbeing is supported by the school's Pastoral Care team. Lunchtime tutorials, EL support and international student pastoral care further bolster student wellbeing and safe adaptation. Counselling services are available to support mental health and overall wellbeing. | Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports are a core focus, with more than 20 sporting codes and top-quality fields, a high-performance gym, climbing wall, an all-weather hockey turf and covered tennis and netball courts. The school aims to develop lifelong physical activity through quality coaching across codes. Camp Week is a major outdoor learning experience for Years 7–13, designed to build teamwork, independence, resilience and personal development. Physical Education/Health/Learning for Life is a compulsory part of the Senior School, reinforcing wellbeing as part of Kristin's approach. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision The school teaches Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Latin, Spanish and Te Reo Māori. These languages are offered as part of the Junior High School language options (Year 7–10) and continue into the Senior School, with language study aligned to both the NCEA and IB pathways. French Ab Initio and Latin are included among the IB/NCEA language offerings. English and ESOL support is provided for learners of English. | Language provision Mandarin Chinese and Maori are taught throughout the Kindergarten and Junior School. Language classes for Middle and Senior School include Chinese, Spanish, French and Japanese. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs — | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Intake years and availability. Main intake years are Preschool, Year 0/1, Year 4, Year 7, Year 9 and Year 11. Availability to admit new students exists throughout the year if vacancies arise. Diocesan can accept students at other year levels when places are available. 2. Apply online and deadlines. Complete the online application form. The closing date for applications is approximately 18 months prior to the entry year; for 2028 intake, it closes on Friday 29 May 2026. The application requires a non-refundable NZ$300 fee and your daughter's NZ birth certificate or NZ passport, or current passport and visa, along with a recent photo and her latest school report. If there are educational assessments, upload these with the application. 3. Documentation and review. Around 18 months ahead of entry, the Admissions Team will request additional supporting documentation. When all requested documentation has been received it will be reviewed by the Senior Academic Team. Timelines depend on the closing date and the volume of applications. 4. Interview. Following the review of your daughter's application and supporting documentation you will be advised if your daughter has been selected for an interview. 5. Offer and enrolment. Students are offered a place formally in writing. You will have a week to accept. When you accept you will be asked to pay a non-refundable enrolment fee of NZ$1,750. This represents your commitment to accepting the place offered to you. 6. Start of process. If you haven't yet applied but are interested, contact Admissions to find out availability. Please read the Selection Criteria for Enrolment and the Terms & Conditions. | Admissions 1. Apply online: Applications take about 15 minutes to complete and require documents such as the photo page of the applicant's passport or NZ birth certificate; for non-New Zealand passport holders, a visa copy; a recent head-and-shoulders photo; two most recent school reports; and copies of any educational assessments if applicable. 2. Little Doves ELC and Kristin Kindergarten: Applications are open year-round; after submission, the child is placed in an Applicant Pool and will be contacted for an interview if a place becomes available; tours are invitation-only. 3. Junior School (Year 0 and Year 1): Applications are open year-round; selected candidates are notified for an entrance interview closer to when the child turns five; tours are offered by invitation. 4. Middle School (Years 7 and 9, 2026 entries): Applications for 2026 have closed; 2027 and beyond are open; due to high demand not all applicants will be selected for an entrance interview; those not selected will be placed in the Applicant Pool and may be contacted if opportunities arise. 5. Senior School (Years 11–13, 2026 entries): Applications for 2026 have closed; 2027 and beyond are open; due to high demand and limited places not all applicants will be shortlisted; shortlisted candidates and their parent(s) or guardian(s) must attend an entrance interview with the Senior School Principal or delegate. 6. International students: Kristin generally does not accept international students under 14 unless they live in Auckland with a parent permanently present; a copy of the birth certificate and passport must be provided with the International Student application. 7. What we look for: Kristin seeks students with real potential to be intellectual and independent learners and to contribute across the co-curriculum; selection considers academics, character, interests and personality. 8. Community connections: connections to the Kristin community (such as being siblings of current students or children of alumni) are considered as part of the process, but do not guarantee a place. 9. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Diocesan offers an internal scholarship programme that invests in current students by recognising high achievers. Consideration for a scholarship or bursary will also be given to a limited number of students who are new to Diocesan. Sports and Music scholarships are offered from Years 11-13 and will only be made available if there are places in these year levels. Diocesan Alumnae Association bursaries and Buchanan Foundation scholarship are available from Year 7. One Ko Tātou scholarship is offered to a Year 9 student, covering Years 9-13. Applications for 2027 scholarships and bursaries are now closed. Applications for 2028 scholarships and bursaries will open in January 2027. Scholarships at a glance: Sports and Music scholarships have a maximum value of 50% of the tuition fees. The Diocesan Alumnae Association Bursary was established for girls whose Mother or Grandmother is a Diocesan Alumna, with selection criteria including financial circumstances and the Dio Alumna's past involvement in the school, for up to 50% of tuition fees. The Ko Tātou Scholarship was established in 2022 to open the doorway for students to attend Diocesan who would not otherwise be able to. One scholarship is offered each year to a Year 9 student, covering Years 9-13. Scholarships for Boarding: 2028 will be available, with applications opening in 2027. | Scholarships Dove Scholarships are Kristin's main scholarship program for Years 9–13 and include four categories: Dove Sports Scholarships, Dove Performing Arts Scholarships, Dove Foundation Scholarships (for Alumni/Foundation families), and Dove Emerging Leaders Scholarships. Each category offers up to 50% of tuition fees and is renewed each year if scholarship requirements are met. Dove Scholarships open for 2027 entry; applications close 31 March 2026; applicants complete an online form and are notified by email about shortlisting. Eligibility requires New Zealand Citizenship or Permanent Residency; scholarships are for new students entering Years 9–13. Shortlisted applicants and their parents attend an interview; a financial disclosure may be requested; decisions are final; if no applicants meet criteria, Kristin may not award any scholarships that year. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist — | Waitlist Applicants not selected for an entrance interview are placed in the Applicant Pool and may be contacted if an opportunity for an entrance interview arises at a later date. |
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