Ara welcomes visit from Fijian school senior students

Ara Institute of Canterbury was pleased to host an enthusiastic group of students from Kingdom Ambassadors International Fellowship (KAIF) School on Monday, offering them a glimpse into the learning opportunities available across its campuses.

A 30-strong cohort was warmly invited into the whare at Te Puna Wānaka , and in turn acknowledged the welcome by filling the space with their own beautiful singing.

A short tour of the architecture and engineering facilities in Kahukura followed, with many students pausing to admire and photograph the innovative learning spaces and student projects on display.

The group also heard from Fijian student Sunia Saumi, who shared his personal journey studying the New Zealand Diploma in Construction (Level 6) with a strand in Quantity Surveying. His story offered valuable insight into student life at Ara and the pathways available.

The visit continued with students splitting into two groups to explore the trades campus in Woolston and the Manawa campus in the Christchurch health precinct, further showcasing the breadth of study options.

KAIF School Director Sunia Marayawa said this was the school’s second visit to New Zealand, but their first time venturing to the South Island. “After last year, we made a commitment to return and explore more opportunities. We want our students to see what’s possible beyond Fiji and to broaden their horizons,” he said.

One student, inspired by the visit and particularly impressed by the hands-on workshops and resources, expressed excitement about the possibility of studying architecture at Ara. .

Mr Marayawa noted that learning about cross-crediting options and seeing the facilities firsthand had been especially valuable. “The student-teacher ratio at Ara is something that really stands out. It makes the transition from Fiji more realistic and supportive for our students,” he said.

Several students left the visit with a clear interest in pursuing study at Ara, encouraged by what they had seen and heard throughout the day.

Ara Director of Pacific Achievement Sua Tauti said it had been a privilege to host the KAIF group.

“Their energy, curiosity and cultural richness brought a special spirit to our campuses. Visits like these are more than just tours - they’re about building connections, inspiring future pathways and affirming the value of Pacific learners in tertiary education. We look forward to welcoming them back and supporting their aspirations.”