Connect with Kiwis and share in their lifestyle

Nelson is the sunniest city in New Zealand. New Zealanders (kiwis) rate Nelson as a top city for lifestyle, education and seaside activities. It is a community with heart and a sense of arts, music and fun. Walking, tramping, mountain biking and Tahuna Beach are easy to reach from the city centre. People are friendly and talk to you. You will quickly feel comfortable here and make friends with like-minded students. 

We welcome you to join us. Find out what makes Nelson great.

Your Nelson English Centre Experience

Student life at NEC is different to other schools. The student zone is specially designed so that you cross paths with teachers, staff and students from other countries. Ninety percent of our weekly school activities are taken by NEC staff. This frequent social interaction between staff and students gives the school a community feeling. Our student and agent feedback frequently ranks NEC number #1 for speaking English only in the student room. This means you can learn English faster while you have great conversations.

 We have worked for over twenty years to develop the best experiences for our students.  

Our students love NEC’s community feeling. You can easily chat with students of all nationalities, teachers and staff. You will make life-long connections. Join us. 

Who are we?

Nelson English Centre students and teachers:

• Enjoy learning and teaching English

• Are open to new experiences and ideas

• Believe everyone is welcome

• Love Nelson's nature and attractions

Be Here. Not There.

 Clear blue sea, snow capped mountains, golden beaches, natural bush. Only one hour's trip from Nelson are three stunning National Parks including the world-famous Abel Tasman. Every weekend our students explore the beautiful nature in these parks. As locals we have detailed knowledge of the Nelson Region and provide the best places, itineraries and prices for our students. 

You will take away lifetime memories of your experiences.

Learn with the Assurance of Strong International Accreditations

Nelson English Centre is one of only two IALC* schools in New Zealand. This means we have highly qualified teachers, a top academic management system and high standards of student care. We have very high percentage of permanent staff with the DELTA teaching compared to other schools. This means you will have a professional, well-organised and enjoyable classroom experience. Of the provincial schools in New Zealand NEC has the most candidates passing FCE and CAE Cambridge exams each year.

Study at NEC. Learn English. Achieve your goals

Q. Who owns Nelson English Centre ?

A. Miles Fitton

Q. Why should I study English in Nelson, New Zealand?

A. Nelson offers a safe, affordable, and welcoming environment for international students. With more sunshine than most New Zealand cities, beautiful beaches, national parks, and a friendly local community, students can improve their English while enjoying an authentic Kiwi lifestyle. Nelson is also less crowded than larger cities, giving students more opportunities to practice English with local people every day.

Q. Can I work while studying English in New Zealand?

A. Depending on your visa type and study programme, international students may be able to work while studying in New Zealand at Nelson English Centre. Working Holiday Visa holders can work, while some student visa holders may have work rights - currently 25 hours work rights per week if you study at Nelson English Centre for 14 weeks or more.

Q. How much does it cost to study English in New Zealand?

A. The total cost depends on your course length, accommodation choice, and lifestyle. Students should budget for tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. Compared with many major English-speaking destinations, New Zealand offers excellent value for money and a high quality of life. For a student visa, you must prove you have at least NZ$1,667 per month of study available for living expenses if your program is shorter than 12 months. Please see our prices pages for current prices.

Q. What accommodation options are available for international students?

A. Students can choose from homestay accommodation with a local New Zealand family, shared housing, private rentals, or other accommodation options. Homestay is especially popular because it provides daily opportunities to practice English, experience Kiwi culture, and build confidence in real-life communication situations. We have a notice board at school where members of the community come and put rooms or houses available to rent.

Q. What English level do I need to study at Nelson English Centre?

A. Students of all English levels are welcome, from complete beginners to advanced learners. On arrival, students complete a placement test to determine their current level. This ensures they join the class that best matches their English ability and learning goals, whether they are preparing for work, travel, university, or an English proficiency test such as IELTS.

Q. What year was the school established ?

A. 1995

Q. Total number of classrooms?

A. 12

Q. Total number of students? 

A. Please click on this link to our nationality mix as the number varies

Q. Capacity of students in peak season?

A. 130, but we often get 80 on average

Q. What is the minimum age limit?

A. 14 years for our AEP Programme, 18 years for our adult school.

Q. When is your high season?

A. September to March

Q. What is the special focus of courses?

A. In the morning the focus is on grammar – using communicative methodology. In the afternoon the focus is on skills – speaking, reading, listening and writing.

Q. What is the education of teachers?

A. Minimum Cambridge RSA CELTA

Q. The ratio of teachers / students?

A. Student / teacher ratio = 7.5

Q. Maximum number students in class? 

A. 14 (12 in our Cambridge classes)

Q. What day can I start my General English Course? 

A. Any Monday

Q. How do I enrol? 

A. Click here

More Questions?