Kristin School and St Cuthbert's College are both in Auckland, about 18 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and St Cuthbert's College also offers Bespoke. Published annual fees are NZ$500 - 29,056 at Kristin School and NZ$27,500 - 63,088 at St Cuthbert's College, which puts St Cuthbert's College roughly 206% higher. Kristin School takes pupils from 0 to 18, and St Cuthbert's College from 5 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 1,800 and 1,633 pupils.
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.
Location
Located in Epsom, Auckland, New Zealand. The campus address is 122 Market Road, Epsom, Auckland 1051.
Stages
Stages
Early Learning to Senior School (Early Childhood Education 6 months–5 years; Kindergarten through Year 13)
Stages
Junior School Years 0–6; Senior School Years 7–10; Senior School Years 11–13.
School type
School type
Independent, co-educational school
School type
The school is an all-girls day and boarding school.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
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Additional learning support
ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) classes are available to support students whose first language is not English.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
New Zealand
Country affiliation
New Zealand
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
non-denominational
Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
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.
Bus service details
Transport options include dedicated school bus routes organized by Auckland Transport; Outer Link bus; private and public NZ Bus routes; Remuera train station within walking distance.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
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.
Fee details
Application and Acceptance Fees
- Application fee: NZD 320 (GST inclusive). This fee is waived if the applicant's mother is an Old Girl. - Acceptance (enrolment) fee: NZD 2,480 (GST inclusive). This acceptance fee is non‑refundable and includes lifetime membership to the Old Girls' Association and membership of the Parents & Friends' Association.
Tuition and Boarding Fees (annual and per term/quarter)
- New Zealand resident tuition (2026): - Years 0–6: NZD 27,500 per year / NZD 6,875 per quarter. - Years 7–13: NZD 31,544 per year / NZD 7,886 per quarter. - Kahunui (Year 10 residential experience): NZD 3,500 (annual one‑off fee). - Boarding (for boarders): NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter. Boarding is available for Years 9–13.
- International student tuition (student visa) (2026): - Years 0–6: NZD 55,000 per year / NZD 13,750 per quarter. - Years 7–13: NZD 63,088 per year / NZD 15,772 per quarter. - Kahunui (Year 10): NZD 3,500 (annual one‑off fee). - Boarding: NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter.
- Building maintenance levy (per family): NZD 1,000 for one student; NZD 1,500 for two or more students. - Sibling discount: A 30% tuition discount applies to the third and subsequent daughters once they start at the College (conditions apply).
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Invoicing and due dates: - Tax invoices/statements are issued monthly; annual fees are invoiced quarterly. - Quarterly invoice / direct debit processing schedule (2026): - Quarter 1 invoice date: 13 January 2026 — due (direct debit) 31 January 2026. - Quarter 2 invoice date: 1 April 2026 — due (direct debit) 30 April 2026. - Quarter 3 invoice date: 1 July 2026 — due (direct debit) 31 July 2026. - Quarter 4 invoice date: 1 September 2026 — due (direct debit) 30 September 2026. - Payment frequencies available via Direct Debit by the College (no fee for the direct debit service): 40 weekly payments, 20 fortnightly payments, 10 monthly payments, or quarterly payments (quarterly amounts include disbursements and fees billed to date). Weekly/fortnightly/monthly direct debits commence on 22 January 2026; a year‑end wash‑up payment may be processed in December. Weekly/fortnightly/monthly direct debit instalment amounts (including an estimate for disbursements) are published by year group. Example direct debit instalments (including an estimate of NZD 2,000 for disbursements): - Year 0–6: Weekly NZD 740 / Fortnightly NZD 1,480 / Monthly NZD 2,960. - Year 7–13 (not Year 10): Weekly NZD 840 / Fortnightly NZD 1,680 / Monthly NZD 3,360. - Year 10: Weekly NZD 930 / Fortnightly NZD 1,860 / Monthly NZD 3,720. - Boarders Year 7–13: Weekly NZD 1,380 / Fortnightly NZD 2,760 / Monthly NZD 5,520. - Full‑year in‑advance option: One lump sum payment of the full year plus an estimate of NZD 2,000 for disbursements is due by 31 January (cash or credit card accepted for the lump sum). A direct debit is still required for the year‑end wash‑up. - Disbursements (extras) are invoiced monthly and the published estimate for budgeting is NZD 2,000 (this excludes overseas trips, overnight camps, technology equipment or leases, and donations). - Interest and penalties: Interest of 1% per month is charged on overdue accounts; dishonoured direct debit payments incur a NZD 20 charge in addition to any bank charges. Non‑payment within the time specified by the Trust Board may result in parents being asked to withdraw the student.
Payment methods and options
- Payment methods accepted for lump‑sum payments: cash or credit card (Visa, Mastercard and American Express accepted). A direct debit arrangement with the College is available for instalment payments (no fee). - Direct debit (managed by St Cuthbert's) is the instalment mechanism; families can choose weekly, fortnightly, monthly or quarterly frequencies. A wash‑up payment at year end may apply.
Boarding details and charges
- Boarding availability and fees: - Boarding is offered for Senior School students (Years 9–13). - Boarding fee: NZD 21,608 per year / NZD 5,402 per quarter (same boarding fee applies to New Zealand residents and international students). - Change of status/withdrawal for boarders: One full quarter's boarding fee will be charged where a change in status occurs but notice requirements are not fulfilled. One full term's written notice to the Principal is required prior to withdrawal from the College as a boarder or day girl, otherwise one quarter's fees in lieu will be charged.
Other compulsory or common family costs
- Building maintenance levy per family: NZD 1,000 (one student) or NZD 1,500 (two or more students). - Uniform: All uniform items are supplied via the on‑campus Black Watch House uniform shop (new students are required to have a fitting and new families must purchase uniform in person for sizing). Compulsory uniform items are listed by year group (examples include blazer, tunic, shirts, ties, PE kit, shoes and selected sportswear). Families should budget separately for full uniform packs. - Devices and stationery: Students have device requirements by year level (Years 5–9 require an iPad with keyboard and Apple Pencil; Years 10–13 require an Apple MacBook). Stationery for Years 7–13 is purchased via OfficeMax; families should budget for a device and stationery in addition to tuition and uniform. - Additional common costs not included in tuition: overseas trips, sports tours, subject‑specific materials, optional academy or activity levies, overnight camps, external examination fees, medical expenses, personal items, and donations. Disbursements billed monthly may include many of these items.
Refunds, notice and penalties
- Acceptance fee: non‑refundable. - Absence from school (illness, quarantine, parents' overseas transfer or other causes) does not entitle families to cancellation or refund of fees. Suspension or expulsion of a student does not result in a refund of fees. - Withdrawal notice: One full term's written notice to the Principal is required prior to withdrawal for either boarders or day students. Failure to provide the required notice will result in one quarter's fees charged in lieu. A change from boarding to day status without the required notice will attract one full quarter's boarding fee.
Administrative and contact details for fees
- Accounts contact: fees@stcuthberts.school.nz. Phone numbers for general enquiries and the uniform shop are published for families who need assistance with purchases or payment arrangements.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
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House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
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.
Curriculum details
The curriculum from Years 0-13 combines academic rigor with forward-thinking innovation, preparing young women for a rapidly changing world. Subject offerings cover sciences, English, humanities, languages, mathematics, technology, and the arts, with tailored choices aligned to university entrance requirements and future career aspirations. Guidance on subject selection is provided by Careers advisors, tutors, Deans, and teachers. Extension for High Achievers includes acceleration in Mathematics, NZQA Scholarship programmes, and mentoring. Junior School (Years 0-6) features a Structured Literacy Approach, a strong numeracy programme, smaller class sizes, and specialist teaching in Music, French, and Physical Education. Senior School (Years 7-10) offers a core programme with language tasters in Year 7 and pathways in Year 8, plus a Year 10 Kahunui outdoor learning experience. Year 11-13 provide a bespoke Year 11 Diploma and two qualification pathways: NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
Small class sizes; senior school classes have an average of 15 students.
Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
The school has a 100% pass rate in the IB Diploma and 97% of students achieving University Entrance (UE) in 2024.
Exam results
2024 results: 99% of students achieved University Entrance across IB and NCEA; NCEA pass rate for Levels 2 and 3 was 100%; IB pass rate was 100% with 22% achieving 40+/45. NZQA Scholarships were awarded: 139 total, with 25 outstanding. 2023 results: 97% of Year 13 gained University Entrance; six Top NZ Subject Awards; three NZQA Outstanding Scholar Awards; two Premier Scholars. 2025 results: 99% University Entrance; 121 NZQA Scholarships awarded with 16 outstanding.
Higher education progression
Higher education progression
97% of students achieved University Entrance (UE) in 2024.
Higher education progression
University Entrance is a key pathway, with two qualification routes in Years 12-13: NCEA Levels 2 and 3 or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The school provides University and Career Guidance to support local and offshore university applications, and offers a broad range of subjects to prepare students for tertiary study across multiple regions.
Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
Extension for High Achievers includes acceleration in Mathematics, enrichment opportunities, NZQA Scholarship programmes, and mentoring.
Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
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English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
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Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
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Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
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History
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Community
Community
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Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
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.
Admissions
The school has an Admissions Team that guides families through the application process from inquiry to place, with an online application form available when ready. The school welcomes girls at every year level in both the Junior and Senior Schools, and offers Boarding from Year 9. International students from Year 1–13 are welcomed into a diverse community. From the initial enquiry, the admissions team supports families to navigate the application process and get to know their daughter and family.
Scholarships
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.
Scholarships
St Cuthbert's offers General Scholarships (General Excellence, Boarding and Performing Arts) and Endeavour Scholarships. For 2027, applications are invited for entry in 2027; applications for all available scholarships are open; applicants may apply for only one scholarship; NZ citizens or NZ residents who are prospective students may apply; examinations and interviews determine outcomes; results are emailed; the principal's decision is final. The Endeavour Scholarships award up to four places each year for Māori and/or Pasifika descent joining in Year 7 and/or Year 9, and provide support through school years. The value of each Endeavour Scholarship starts at 25% of tuition fees per year, rising to 100% with demonstrated financial need; criteria include cultural participation, academic ability and leadership; candidates sit English and Mathematics exams and may be shortlisted for interview. The general scholarships include General Excellence, Boarding, and Performing Arts; a Performing Arts Scholarship has a maximum of 50% tuition; a Kathleen Goulding Old Girls' Association Scholarship has a maximum of 75% tuition; a Margaret Beale Scholarship has a maximum of 100% tuition; Macdonald Junior Academic Scholarship and Macdonald Senior Academic Scholarship are not available for 2027. Boarding Scholarships for 2027 cover Year 9 up to 100% of boarding fees and Year 11 up to 50% of boarding fees (tuition not included). Applications require completion of the checklist and submission by the closing date; 2027 timeline includes closing date 27 March 2026, scholarship exams 22 April 2026, and interviews in late May 2026. For questions contact Brenda Crean at scholarships@stcuthberts.school.nz or call 09 940 9157.
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.
