William SmithIt’s not easy to find a private school for your children these days. I know because my sister’s been stressing about enrolling her 5-year-old son.
One, you have practical considerations in mind, like tuition fees, curriculum fit, and more. Second, there is an endless list of schools to choose from, and the truth is…you don’t have much time to filter through all those.
I hear you, and I’m sharing here the list of the best private schools in Auckland, the same options my sister looked at for her child. Check out which institution matches your budget, curriculum preferences, and school culture you want for your child.
How much does a private school in Auckland cost?
A private school in Auckland costs from $27,000 to $33,000 per year. Some schools charge per term. Likewise, some charge additional fees, like an application and acceptance fee. Other additional costs include the uniform and annual levy.
1. Diocesan School for Girls
Address: Clyde Street, Epsom
Contact Details: +6495200221
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
What really stood out to us about Diocesan School for Girls is its impressive track record. 96% of its students had passed the university entrance exam in 2024, which speaks volumes about the quality of education it provides.
The school’s facilities are impressive too. They have a chapel, an arts centre, and a high-tech science room. If your child is into the arts or science, this is a good institution to foster their interests.
Probably the most surprising facility we found inside is the indoor heated pool. Turns out, they have a program called Dio Swim School, open for kids who want to learn swimming.
The best part, though, is how safe Diocesan is. A parent shared that during the 4 years of her child in school, she didn’t hear any bullying or racism. The teachers were also friendly and encouraging, she added.
They also accept international students with fees of $59,850 (Junior and Senior High School). For us, it’s a bit expensive with other fees to consider, like application and enrolment fees.
If not an international student, the enrolment fee is $1,750 from the Foundation to Year 13. Meanwhile, the tuition starts at $596 to $29,870.
Best choice
“My friend’s moving his daughter to this school from the public system. His research led him to believe it was clearly the best choice for his daughter.. He’s a smart, clear-thinking guy who makes good decisions.”
-Mr. Alan Matteucci, Google Review
Outstanding school
“My 3 daughters have gone to Dio. It’s truly an amazing school – education, arts, sport, pastoral care – it’s all outstanding.”
-Ms. Jacqueline Rowe, Google Review
2. Manukau Christian School
Address: 77 Rogers Road, Manurewa
Contact Details: +6492691050, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Manukau Christian School is a private school accepting students from Year 1 to 13. It’s also under the Cambridge International School, embracing an international curriculum beneficial for students.
If you’re a Christian, this private school might be for your kids. Many parents are satisfied with the Christ-centred values of the teachers here. They said that the school is also well supported by the local church.
We appreciate the school’s whole-school house competitions, which revolve around sports activities like thug of war. These activities promote teamwork and improve the motor skills of students. However, it is only done once a year, typically during Term 1.
Fees? They’re pretty reasonable. Local student tuition fees start from $2,250 to $2,700 per term, depending on your child’s year level. For international students, fees start at $14,000 to $18,000 per annum, which is also fair.
We’re also interested in their discount structure. If you enrolled your first child, you can get a 10% discount on your second child’s tuition. Then, your third child can get a 20% as well. They also offer scholarships to families who are in financial hardship.
However, some students report that the teachers here are very strict.
Strong academic foundation
“We’re so happy with our experience at Manukau Christian School. Our child settled into Year 1 really well, and we’ve been impressed by the caring teachers, strong academic foundation, and Christ-centred values that are woven into everything they do. The communication with parents is great, and it’s clear the school genuinely partners with families. We feel blessed to be part of such a supportive and nurturing community!”
-Mr. TJ, Google Review
High level of education
“We have been pleased with the high level of education, support and care that Manukau Christian School has offered our children. The school has a family feel about it with teachers who get to know the children well. The Christian values and teaching are the most important thing that sets MCS apart, and the school doesn’t compromise on this.”
-Ms. Anna Willis, Google Review
3. St Heliers School
Address: 126-160 Saint Heliers Bay Road, St Heliers
Contact Details: +6495758311, [email protected]
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
St Heliers School is a private institution accepting students from Year 1 to 8. Although they don’t cater to a wide age range, they still have lots to offer.
First, we like that they offer extended programs such as second language learning, sporting events, and science specialisation. This is beneficial for students who want to take a particular path in the future.
Speaking of events, they have plenty of these! They have walking Wednesdays, SHS School Country, and more. For us, these events are important to have that academic and extracurricular balance.
Another thing we love is their seasonal uniforms. They look comfortable and cool at the same time. Since this is a private school, expect that the uniforms are compulsory.
We also heard that the principal and teachers are all welcoming. A parent mentioned Miss Emma for not just teaching academics, but also soft skills that students need to develop.
They accept international students with fees starting at $16,700 plus an acceptance fee. For us, it’s reasonable.
The only downside is that they don’t offer secondary education here.
Great school and teachers
“Great school with great teachers. The pupils are all polite and achieve high standards. No complaints at all. Well run from the top down”
-Warwick Church, Google Review
Great school
“Enjoyed my time there, and the teachers were all nice. Overall, great school.”
Mr. Luke Rose, Google Review
4. Saint Kentigern College
Address: 130 Pakuranga Road, Pakuranga
Contact Details: +6495770749
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Saint Kentigern College is a reputable school with two campuses in Auckland. What stood out about this school is that they have boys’ and girls’ schools. They also accept preschool to college, which tells us that they cater to a wide age range.
We also like their Shore Road campus, where preschool, boys’, and girls’ schools are located. It’s spacious, well-ventilated, and conducive to learning. We particularly love the big windows in the Junior High School room that give natural lighting.
We also talked to some parents, and they shared that the school has arts, music, and sports clubs to join. This is perfect for students who want to learn and develop their talents.
Also, their modern facilities are awesome. They have science laboratories and sports facilities, which can contribute to a well-rounded student experience.
Many also highlighted that the teachers are helpful and supportive. They handle a small class size, which is beneficial in giving individualised attention.
However, one thing to prepare is their fees. We found their full uniform expensive at $1,600. They also have a few more fees, like a software licence fee for their curriculum and EOTC for Year 7 and Year 8.
Very good school
“Overall, it’s a very good school with great teachers and resources for students. Strong academic results and lots of clubs for arts, music, sports, so students can learn, enjoy and develop their talents.”
-Ms. Emily Wu, Google Review
Excellent school with good people
“An excellent school with very good people behind it and great, extensive grounds that allow the kids to enjoy a wide range of sports and activities that allow their minds to stay active for learning.”
-Ms. Lorraine Smith, Google Review
5. Michael Park School
Address: 55 Amy Street, Ellerslie
Contact Details: +6495793083
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Michael Park School is the only Steiner school in central Auckland. We like that they use the Steiner philosophy, which combines academics and artistic activities.
We asked about their learning experiences, and we’re surprised that they have lots of opportunities for their students. They have outdoor classrooms, earth building, and handwork, to name a few.
We also love that they don’t just focus on the artsy side because they also have sports and earth building. We think that they really have a balanced education for the head, heart, and hands.
Parents share that the teachers are supportive and even do one-on-one learning. However, some are a bit disappointed with the school’s principal, saying that he can treat the teachers and students better.
The school also accepts exchange student, which is a big plus for us, showing their inclusivity. One student shared that he was able to attend the school as an exchange student, which gave him great impressions and experiences.
However, make sure to prepare for the fees that can get expensive. They have school annual attendance dues ($1,437.50) and special character annual donation($2,835.00). This is aside from their enrolment fee and application fee.
Holistic learning environment
“If you are looking for a holistic learning environment for your children amongst an amazing community of parents and teachers, look no further than Michael Park School. I have seen such an amazing transformation in my child just after 2 months of attending the kindy.”
-Ms. Jessie Holtschke, Google Review
Balanced education
“A true sanctuary for children, a balanced education for the head, the heart and the hands. The teachers are nurturing, experienced, and kind, and they go above and beyond for the children under their care. Our children love going to this school, and we love the school community.”
-Mr. Anis Tang, Google Review
