Hall Applications for 2027 are fast approaching, and we are looking forward to meeting you.

From August 1st, 2026, students can start the enrolment process!

This is an exciting journey, but often one that comes with some uncertainty and questions.

Our Principal, Jo Morrow, is committed to attending Hall Tours (including Open Day), and together with our Assistant Principal (Nathan Jaquiery), residential tutors and current students we look forward to meeting those who attend the Friday campus and hall tours.

We are working with the University of Canterbury to accommodate the tour schedule and ensure you have an opportunity to visit our campus. Due to the privacy of our current residents we will not be hosting tours outside of the official dates offered. You may know someone in the Hall (from your region or school) who is happy to host a one-on-one tour, and we encourage you to connect with them to learn more about the Hall.

Our website is a good source of information for those who cannot travel within this period of time.

As you prepare and complete your application think about sharing your story, your whanāu, interests and experiences. Our Principal takes the time to read every application we receive, and has given some tips below (around our core values) for you to consider when writing your application:

  • Brief run down on you and your family (Community)

  • Someone who has inspired you to be who you are today (Respect)

  • What you enjoy doing with your downtime (Balance)

  • What do you enjoy with learning and extra-curricular (Opportunities)

  • Community service and other contributions outside of learning (Support)

Rochester & Rutherford Hall Tours 2026

2027 Applicants

Fergus Morunga

Hall President 2025

Looking back, it is hard not to smile, remembering all the experiences and memories that we shared together. The formal dinners, Mr Whippy, the “study” room, the ball, Chief Raj, tutors and staff and of course, the mighty Rec room. These places and people will stay etched in our minds for years to come, and it is with immense gratitude that we thank them, for all they have done for us. It has been the greatest pleasure to lead us through this year as President, working with a dedicated student executive to bring events and themes to our weekly calendar.

Thank you to all those who served alongside me in this team, giving back to all those in the hall. I believe the greatest gift RnR has given us has been each other. We have had the opportunity to create meaningful and memorable connections that will last lifetimes, and they will only grow stronger.

Some further considerations for your application are the following:

  • Put Us First: Consider listing Rochester and Rutherford Hall as your top choice for a thorough application review.

  • Tap into Past Residents' Experiences: Reach out to former residents for valuable insights into hall life.

  • Make the Most of Open Days and Tours: Attend events and tours to immerse yourself in the hall's environment and atmosphere.

Please watch the video below and have a click through our website to learn more about Rochester and Rutherford Hall and our values. This will help you decide if we are the right fit for you. We are not the only ones making decisions - you are too!

Rā Tōmene / Open Day will be taking place on the Friday 28th of August. Registrations are open now. This is a great opportunity for you to familiarise yourself with life at the University of Canterbury. All Halls will be open for viewing. For all the information you need on Open Day and Tours please click here. Remember all tours are booked through the University, not directly through the Hall. 

For information on all of the Halls of Residence and the application process please click here. Applications are all processed through the University of Canterbury, not directly through the Hall. 

We so look forward to reading your application and learning more about you.