Pinehurst School
Founded 1991
Updated July 2026
Cambridge PrimaryAccreditations
Languages
EnglishPinehurst School is a leading independent school in Albany, New Zealand, providing a holistic education for students from Year 1 to Year 13. It is known for its academic rigour, supportive community, and commitment to developing well-rounded individuals.
Term structure
Teaching approach
Pinehurst School is built on the 'Pinehurst Triangle' of students, parents, and staff working in partnership. Its core values are Respect for Self, Respect for Others, and Excellence. The school aims to nurture character, creativity, and resilience, empowering students to become confident, compassionate global citizens who are prepared for a rapidly changing world.
Programmes
The school follows the Cambridge Pathway, providing a consistent academic framework from Primary (Year 1–6) through to College (Year 7–13). The curriculum blends academic rigour with critical thinking and real-world skills, contextualized to reflect New Zealand's heritage and the school's diverse community. Students are prepared for internationally recognized qualifications through this structured, globally respected programme.
Student support
Learning support
The school emphasizes a holistic approach to student care, ensuring every child is known and valued as an individual. Pastoral care is integrated into the school culture, with dedicated leadership roles focused on student wellbeing and leadership development. Staff are committed to providing a nurturing environment that supports students' personal and academic growth.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Pinehurst School offer?
- Pinehurst School offers Cambridge Primary, Cambridge Lower Secondary, IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Pinehurst School?
- Annual tuition at Pinehurst School is NZ$19.3K–NZ$42.6K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Pinehurst School hold?
- Pinehurst School holds accreditations including Cambridge International.
- Is Pinehurst School co-educational?
- Pinehurst School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Pinehurst School located?
- Pinehurst School is an international school in Auckland, New Zealand.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Years 1 - 6 (NZ Residents) | — | NZ$19.3K |
| Years 1 - 6 (International Students) | — | NZ$32K |
| Years 7 - 8 (NZ Residents) | — | NZ$21.8K |
| Years 7 - 8 (International Students) | — | NZ$37.9K |
| Years 9 - 13 (NZ Residents) | — | NZ$24K |
| Years 9 - 13 (International Students) | — | NZ$42.6K |
Other fees(7)
| Application fee· Non-refundable registration fee paid upon application. | NZ$255 |
|---|---|
| Enrolment fee· Non-refundable entrance fee. | NZ$695 |
| Registration fee· Non-refundable alumni fee. | NZ$150 |
| Deposit· Fully refundable when your child leaves the school, provided one term’s notice is given and all fees are settled. | NZ$2.5K |
| Registration feeper year, per student· Capital Contribution Levy per year, per student. | NZ$750 |
| Materialsper year, per student· Activity Fee per year, per student. | NZ$350 |
| Bus / transport· Zone 1 (within 15km): Term Pass $40/week, AM/PM Pass $20/week, Concession $8/ride. Zone 2 (within 30km): Term Pass $55/week, AM/PM Pass $27.50/week, Concession $10/ride. Zone 3 (31+km): Term Pass $77.50/week, AM/PM Pass $38.75/week, Concession $14/ride. Discounts available for 2nd child (50%) and 3rd child (100%). | — |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 5% - 20%
Admissions
The school encourages families to begin the admissions process early due to high demand. Prospective families can attend open days, and the school provides specific guidance for international students, scholarship applicants, and general enrolment. All applications require a non-refundable $255 registration fee, and successful enrolments involve an entrance fee and a refundable bond.
Calendar
The school operates on a four-term academic year. Terms typically run from late January through early December, with breaks between terms and observance of New Zealand public holidays such as Waitangi Day, ANZAC Day, and the King's Birthday. Teacher-only days are scheduled throughout the year for staff development.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus features specialized learning and recreational spaces, including an arena, a gymnasium, and a dance studio. It also houses a library, a theatre, and sports turf for athletic activities. The school has expanded over time to include dedicated facilities such as the 'College 4' building to support its growing student body.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of activities beyond the classroom, including sports teams, arts programmes, and school camps. The school offers the Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award and maintains various student-led groups, such as the Arts, Sports, Citizenship, and Enviro Councils. Additionally, there are opportunities for student leadership through roles like House Captains and peer support initiatives.
- Mike WallerExecutive Principal
Mike Waller joined Pinehurst as Executive Principal in February 2023, bringing over a decade of international leadership experience, including as Head of Secondary at JESS in Dubai. He holds a BCom and Dip Teaching, and is passionate about Business Studies and Economics. His vision is for Pinehurst to be a school where every student is known, supported, and empowered to flourish.
- Sian CoxonPrincipal of Primary
Sian Coxon has been a key part of Pinehurst School since 2000 and brings decades of experience in teaching and educational leadership across New Zealand, the United States, and the United Kingdom. As New Zealand’s Cambridge Primary Programme Lead Teacher, she is passionate about developing confident, curious students and creating a nurturing environment. She holds a BEd and Hons in English & Education.
- Dawn SullivanPrincipal of College
Dawn Sullivan rejoined Pinehurst School in 2022, having previously served as Deputy Principal at Whangaparāoa College and Head of Science at Kristin School. She is committed to fostering positive relationships and educational excellence, with a focus on individualised learning experiences. She holds a BSc Hons, PGCE, and MEd.
- Jon HorneBusiness Manager
Jon Horne has been part of the Pinehurst community since 2014, bringing over two decades of executive experience in finance, general management, and operations. He has overseen major school projects including College 4, the Library, and the Theatre, and plays a central role in the school's long-term success and financial stability. He holds an NZICA - AT qualification.
- Catherine Jones-HillDeputy Principal of Primary
Catherine has been part of the Pinehurst journey since the very beginning as a foundation teacher. She has deep experience across all levels of Primary and has led and taught in specialist areas including Science, PE, Music, and Special Needs. She is a strong advocate for the Cambridge curriculum and holds a BEd and Dip Teacher.
- Joe JohansenDeputy Principal of College - Student Wellbeing and Leadership Development
Joe Johansen brings experience from state and private schools in New Zealand and the United Kingdom to his role, with a focus on student wellbeing and leadership. Before rejoining Pinehurst, he served as the Senior Dean for Years 7–8 at Saint Kentigern Boys’ School. He holds an MEdL (High Distinction), BEd, and Dip Teaching.
- Tony BerghuisDeputy Principal of College - Teaching and Learning
Tony Berghuis has over two decades of experience in primary and secondary education, including 16 years at Bangkok Patana School where he was part of the Secondary Senior Leadership Team. He is passionate about curriculum design, pedagogy, and teacher development, and holds a BEd.