NCG International

Nelson College for Girls has proudly provided high-quality education for over 140 years, empowering and nurturing students to succeed with confidence in their world.

With a roll of 950 students, including 40 international students, we welcome applications for Years 9–13, for students aged 13 to 19 years.

Why Choose NCG?

A personalised and supportive application process

  • Central location in Nelson – just minutes from shops, cafes, and recreational activities

  • A safe, friendly, and inclusive environment

  • On-site boarding house or carefully selected homestay options

  • 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 sport – supported by our outstanding Health and Fitness Centre

  • Our ārahi (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

  • Great value for money

  • The chance to create life-long memories and friendships

Our simple online application process, supported by our experienced international team, ensures your journey with us is tailored to your personal needs and goals.

NCG is where girls grow in confidence, achieve their goals, and truly belong.


We are proud to offer you:

  • A safe and friendly environment for our students

  • On-site boarding house or homestay accommodation

  • Fabulous international staff support, during the length of your stay

  • Varied educational curriculum and subject options

  • Numerous co-curricular sporting, musical and cultural opportunities

  • PRIDE values of Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Empathy embraced

  • The assurance that many of our students move onto university or tertiary education not only in New Zealand but worldwide

  • Excellent value for money

  • The opportunity to create life-long memories and friendships

Nelson College for Girls offers an extensive range of subjects for students. 

These subjects are in the following essential learning areas:

  • Languages

  • English

  • Science

  • Social Sciences

  • Mathematics

  • Health and Physical Education

  • Technology

  • Arts

For more information on academic subjects, entry criteria and future pathways for students is available on our Curriculum information page.

ENGLISH for speakers of other Languages (ESOL)

A course in ESOL / English for Academic Purposes is offered to students who require further help with their English language learning.

Years 9 and 10 ESOL is offered to students who require extra support with their English language skills. The course focuses on reading, writing, speaking and listening.

In Years 11 to 13, English for Academic Purposes helps the students to further their English language ability and also achieve credits towards their NCEA qualifications.

Assessment of students English language skills is made on arrival to determine the level of assistance required. This is based on reading and writing skills.

Support can be arranged for extra help and private tuition for the Independent English Language Testing System (IELTS) in consultation with the International Director.

OUTSIDE SCHOOL HOURS CONTACT TELEPHONE NO:
Strictly emergencies only +64 (0)21 264 6691