our school

Founded in 1856, we have the distinction of being New Zealand's first ever state school which is why we have harboured the notion of being trail blazers ever since!

Located in beautiful Nelson City (sunshine capital of New Zealand), with its mountains, rivers and beaches close to Abel Tasman and other National Parks, a regional centre that boosts and supports a vibrant arts community, Nelson is an important airline hub, and is the fourth busiest airport in New Zealand. It is close to international airports in Wellington (25 minutes) and Christchurch (45 minutes).

Nelson College is situated in a picturesque setting, with magnificent facilities for learning, sport, leisure and performing arts. Twenty two hectares of park-like grounds include playing fields, a pool, two gymnasiums, tennis and fives courts as well as a traditional hall and modern performing arts suite.

New Zealand’s first secondary school founded in 1856, Nelson College celebrated its 150th Jubilee in April 2006.

Accommodation for boarders is provided for by three boarding houses located on the College grounds, each with their own Housemasters, Matrons and support staff. Houses also have tutors who assist students with personal study, assignments and examination preparation

A full range of subjects and options are available for students from Year 9 to Year 13. Students participate in the NCEA assessment programme and many go on to sit for and obtain scholarships.

Several subjects at a senior level provided in conjunction with Nelson College for Girls. Through this close association, combined drama and musical performances and dances are provided at many times throughout the school year.

Nelson College Preparatory School provides educational opportunities for boys in Years 7 and 8.

Student support services include an on-site medical facility, counsellors, careers advisors and mentors from both the College and the local community. Year 13 Leaders give the younger students strong support through the mentoring programme.

A unique outdoor education programme is provided at Mataki Lodge, a College-owned property on the border of Nelson Lakes National Park, near Murchison, 120km south of Nelson.

Former students have gone on to be Prime Minister, win the Nobel Prize, be leaders in education, business, academia, science, the church, performing arts and the military service, represent New Zealand in sport and other pursuits, and in several cases, to represent other countries in their chosen fields.

“The Board of Trustees and headmaster work in partnership with, and are well supported by, senior managers and staff. They are strongly committed to the well-being and achievement of students, maintaining the heritage of the college and planning for its continuous improvement. The charter, strategic and annual plans are firmly focussed on student learning and achievement across the wide range of academic, industry-related, cultural, sporting, leadership and social opportunities offered. Many students achieve considerable success in a number of these areas.”

Report by Education Review Office 2006