Applications Open on 1 August 2026

Starting your enrolment journey is an exciting step, and we understand it can come with questions. We’re here to support you as you explore life at Rochester and Rutherford Hall.

VISITING US: Tours

Our Principal, Jo Morrow, along with Assistant Principal Nathan Jaquiery, residential tutors, and current students, look forward to meeting you during our Friday campus and Hall tours, including Open Day.

We work in partnership with the University of Canterbury to align with official tour dates, ensuring all prospective students and their whānau have the opportunity to experience our campus and experience our culture and people.

If you already know a current resident—perhaps from your school or region—you may wish to connect with them for a one-on-one visit and a personal perspective on Hall life.

PRIVACY: Schedules

To respect the privacy of our current residents, tours are only available during official UC tour dates. These scheduled dates also allow families to spend the weekend in Christchurch and experience what the city has to offer. If you’re unable to visit in person, our website provides a comprehensive overview of life at the Hall.

APPLICATION: Preparation

We encourage you to share your story and include reflections on your whānau, interests, and experiences. What stands out to our team isn’t perfect wording — it’s authenticity. Be specific about your experiences, reflect on what you’ve learned, and show your values through small, real examples share our core values. A short, honest story is far more memorable than something generic. Every year we select students who willingly contribute, and this creates a dynamic community.

You may like the tips below to help you craft your application to reflect your experiences and our core values.

  • Community
    Tell us about yourself and your family.

  • Respect
    Share someone who has inspired you and why.

  • Balance
    What do you enjoy doing in your downtime?

  • Opportunities
    What excites you about learning and extracurricular activities?

  • Support
    Describe your community involvement and contributions beyond academics.

2027 Applications

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.