Open Day 2026
City campus
Come along and explore more than 150 career-enhancing study options, join a ‘walk and talk’ tour with tutors, and learn about our comprehensive student support services and the Ara student experience.
What to expect
- Free parking is available in the Barbadoes Street car park
- Signs will guide you to the main Open Day space (in the Whareora Sports Hall, W Block)
- In the main Open Day space, you can explore study options, join a ‘walk and talk’ session and attend an info session about what to expect when you study at Ara
Timaru campus
Ara’s campus is within walking distance of the city’s main shopping street, supermarkets, cafes, a movie theatre and public library.
What to expect
- The Timaru campus is located on Arthur Street, Timaru
- Signs will guide you to the main Open Day space (Starz Restaurant, TA Block)
- In the main Open Day space you can explore study options, join a ‘walk and talk’ session and find out about student services
Woolston Trades campus
The Woolston campus is dedicated to trades training. It has extensive facilities for construction, automotive and engineering-related trades, including industry-standard equipment and real-world learning spaces.
What to expect
- The Woolston campus is where Trades programmes are delivered
- Free parking is available off Sullivan Avenue
- Signs will guide you to the main Open Day space (Ōpāwaho, VF Block)
- In the main Open Day space you can explore Trades study options, join a ‘walk and talk’ session and find out about student services
Schedules coming soon!
Join us on 6 August 3-6pm
Why attend Open Day?
150+ study options
Explore every pathway from trades to hospitality in one event
Expert guidance
Talk 1-on-1 with tutors and industry professionals
Experience Ara student life
Learn about our comprehensive student support services and the Ara student experience
Frequently asked questions
Bring your ID (birth certificate or passport) and we can help you get it all sorted.
Come say hi, check out where you’ll be studying and get a feel for campus life.
Disclaimer: Ara photographers and videographers will be out and about during Open Day. These images may be used in Ara publications and promotional materials (digital and print), and on Ara social media channels. If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed, just let the person behind the camera know.
Your Pathway to study at Ara
Here's a timeline of our upcoming events that can help you be prepared to study in 2027
Open Day 2026
Explore study options, join tours, and learn all about Ara student life
Get Set for 27
Whether you've applied or in the process of applying, we'll help you get sorted.
Get Set for 27
If you missed our Get Set event in December, there's another chance to get sorted in January.
Semester 1 2027
*Some programmes have different key dates - check your timetable on MyAra for details.
Have any questions? Contact our team