Ao Tawhiti athletics day 2023
Ao Tawhiti Dance club 2022
Ao Tawhiti Jazz band 2016

Ao Tawhiti is a special character area school in central Christchurch for Years 1-13.

We offer opportunities for learning beyond the traditional mainstream schooling system. Our students value the choice and flexibility that our style of education provides.

Discover our special character.

Apply to enrol.

Read our FAQ.

Find out about learning at our school.

  • Caleb

    Starting my journey at Ao Tawhiti in 2021, I have been able to achieve many goals and fully utilise the special character that the school represents. Having the ability to choose how I learn and how I manage my time during school ensured I was meeting academic goals as well as having support in my…

  • Adele

    I started at Ao Tawhiti in 2019 when I was in year 7. 2024 is my last year as I have completed NCEA level 3 as a year 12. I chose to come to this school for a level of freedom to choose my own pathway and subjects. I have been able to work across…

  • Whatuariki

    Over time I have developed independence and see the importance of having motivation. In the real world no one is going to necessarily chase you around and you have to be able to do your own thing. This school prepares you for that. This school is what you make of it.

The Ao Tawhiti building at dusk