International Students
Why choose Villa Maria College?
A warm Kiwi welcome awaits you at Villa Maria College in Christchurch, New Zealand. We are a Catholic girls’ school (Years 7–13) set on beautiful 4.5‑hectare landscaped grounds, offering a safe, supportive, and vibrant learning environment.
Rooted in our Catholic faith and Mercy values, we strive to provide an exceptional education. Learning is flexible and personalised, shaped by students’ interests, strengths, and passions. Our mission is to help every student live Gospel values, grow as a lifelong learner, and be inspired to make a positive difference to their communities as a Mercy woman.
We offer a personalised and supportive experience from application to graduation:
- The chance to create life-long memories and friendships
- Central location in Christchurch – just minutes from shops, cafes, and recreational activities
- A safe, friendly, and inclusive environment
- Carefully selected homestay families
- Timetables tailored to suit individual needs, strengths, and future goals
- Exceptional support from our dedicated international team – from arrival to graduation
- A wide range of subjects and learning opportunities delivered by passionate, highly qualified teachers
- A strong reputation in music, the arts, and sports
- Our guidance system places well-being, friendship, and whānau (family) at the heart of school life
- An abundance of clubs, activities, and leadership opportunities
- Excellent university and tertiary education pathways in New Zealand and around the world
Additional Information
Pastoral Care
At Villa Maria College, your daughter has access to 24/7 support and care from the College’s International Team. We also have a dedicated Student Support Team that includes a school nurse, Guidance Counsellors, and a Careers Advisor.
Villa Maria College has agreed to observe and be bound by the Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students. This Code is important because it sets clear expectations for how schools must support students’ wellbeing, safety, and success.
Copies of the Code are available from the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) website.
New Zealand Qualification Authority website.
Student Stories
You can view student stories here.
Immigration
Full details of visa and permit requirements, advice on rights to employment in New Zealand while studying, and reporting requirements are available through the New Zealand Immigration Service, and can be viewed on their website. You can see a video on how this process works here.
Complaints and Refunds Process
Complaints
There is a formal process in place for you or your parents to follow if you have a complaint about Villa Maria College’s compliance with the Code.
If you or your parents have a complaint about Villa breaching the Code, you can make a complaint in writing to the Director of the International Office. The Director will take all steps necessary to ensure that the grievance is settled. Please email cet@villa.school.nz
If your complaint is not resolved you can contact the New Zealand Education Authority: https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/about-us/contact-us/complaint/
Refunds
International Department
International Director
