Who are we?

Our vision

To be globally recognised as a centre of education excellence, and New Zealand’s leading private school of creativity, innovation, and research.

Our offering

Creativity is curious, innovation is brave, and both are needed to create meaningful change.

Everyone has a vision that is uniquely theirs, a lens through which they see the world, interpret the world, and in turn, help shape the world. At Whitecliffe, we nurture that vision, and we equip you with the skills, techniques and methods to make your vision a reality. Studying at Whitecliffe will help you become a stand-out thinker, innovator, and collaborator.

Turn your talents into a lifelong career and truly explore what you’re capable of. Learn to think creatively, critically, take risks, and develop advanced skills. Through these skills you’ll make valuable contributions and connections in the industries and communities you choose to work and live in.

At Whitecliffe, we encourage you to be brave and think deeply, so you can join the next generation of thinkers, doers, creatives, artists, design innovators, technologists, therapists, and leaders.

Cultivate your talents, build new skills, and create meaningful change — study at Whitecliffe.

Our history

The new Whitecliffe College was formed when three Colleges with over one hundred and thirty years of quality teaching experience combined forces.

Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design was founded by artist Greg Whitecliffe and his wife Michele, with a vision of a professional, career-orientated, research-driven independent art school.

NZ Fashion Tech was founded by Kevin Smith and Val Marshall-Smith after a successful career in fashion, to ensure that students were prepared for successful employment in the fashion industry by being provided the skills that industry requires.

Respected New Zealand educator Feroz Ali has merged these institutions to form a new vision to become globally recognised for developing students as critical and creative thinkers.