What enrolment schemes and school zones are#

Enrolment schemes are a way we make sure schools don't get overcrowded and local whānau | families can always have a place.

Enrolment schemes at state schools set out a geographical area around the school called a home zone. The scheme also outlines any special programmes that a school might run. If you live within a school's home zone, your child automatically qualifies to enrol.

Enrolment scheme home zones are set by us in consultation with the school and community and managed by the school board.

Not all schools have zones. Anyone can enrol at schools that don't have an enrolment scheme. If your child is enrolled at a school without an enrolment scheme, they are entitled to remain at the school if an enrolment scheme is brought in.

Moving zones#

If you move out of a zone after your child is enrolled at a school, they are entitled to remain at the school. You can also choose to enrol your child at the new local school they are in zone for. 

You cannot temporarily move into a zone in order to get your child into a school.

Education and Training Act 2020 No 38 (as at 01 October 2024), Public Act 12 Enrolment may be annulled if based on false information or temporary residence – New Zealand Legislation

Enrolling at a school you are not in zone for#

You may still be able to apply to enrol your child at a school if you live outside its enrolment zone. Your child is not guaranteed a place at the school. This depends on how many out-of-zone applications the school gets, and how many extra places are available after all the in-zone students have enrolled.

There is a specific process and timeframe schools must follow to allocate out-of-zone places. Schools and kura have to advertise if they have any places left for out-of-zone ākonga | students. This could be in the local newspaper, their website, the school app and newsletter. Normally this happens in September, or more frequently if schools have several intakes of students per year.

Enrolment schemes

Ballot dates#

Finding a school or kura#

To find a school or kura that suits your family, check out the options near you on Education Counts. Their website includes the school zone information for schools that have one.

Find your nearest school – Education Counts

Changes to enrolment schemes#

If we are considering changes to an enrolment scheme or creating a new one, we work with the school to consult with their community. This is a legal requirement.

Once a child is enrolled at a school, they are entitled to stay at the school, even if the enrolment scheme changes.

Education and Training Act 2020, Process for establishing enrolment scheme – New Zealand Legislation