Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the new campus?

Our new campus is at 3 Smythe Road, between Henderson Park (and the Corban Arts Estate), and the Henderson train station and WestCity mall. The new campus is just a few minutes drive from our current campus.

How big is the new campus? What has Laidlaw bought?

We have bought more than two hectares of well-zoned land in the heart of Henderson, comprising the former Council administration offices, the Central One building, and the developable land to the north and south. Auckland Council retain ownership of the Council Chamber and rail overbridge.

When will Laidlaw be moving its Henderson campus?

The new campus will formally open at the start of 2024, in time for the launch of S1 classes there. There will be some operational aspects of the move going on throughout 2023, though these will not unduly affect student life on campus. Operational planning for the move is already well underway (you may see stickers and tags on furniture throughout our existing campus - please don't remove these!).

Will this affect any programmes or courses?

All our current programmes will move across to the new campus, and we will be announcing new programmes (made possible by the new site) in the coming months and years. 

Is Laidlaw College closing down?

No! This move is part of our plans to grow and develop - ensuring that we are serving our community and mission for many generations to come.

What does this mean for Laidlaw's other learning sites?

Laidlaw's Christchurch campus and Manukau hub will continue as normal, as will our distance learning suite and partner colleges. 

What will the new campus look like?

We are very excited about the new design, and will be revealing what the classrooms, chapel and worship spaces, community spaces, student lounges, and overall design looks like over the coming months. Our design tells the story of Scripture throughout, in a visual language that reflects the creation and culture of Aotearoa, and the story of te Rongopai in these islands. Watch this space!

What is happening with the current Henderson campus on 80 Central Park Drive?

Half of Laidlaw's existing site in West Auckland has been leased on a very long term to Ryman Healthcare who are building a retirement home. The current operating campus has been sold to the Elim Churches of New Zealand, who will occupy the site when Laidlaw moves down the road.

Will there be parking on the new site? What about public transportation?

Yes! There is a dedicated parking area on the new location that will provide plenty of parking for all our students, staff and visitors. Our new campus is directly beside Henderson train and bus station, so is easily accessible to public transport links. We will also be beside the Twin Streams walkway and cycleway, making it easy to get to College. 

What is happening with Olive Shoots ECE?
Olive Shoots, Laidlaw’s early childhood education centre at 80 Central Park Drive, will remain in its current location for at least a few more years, enabling continuity for children and whānau. A new childcare centre is being planned for our new campus - watch this space!

Can we visit the new campus?
We plan to organise site visits closer to our move date. While the building is a closed construction zone, some of the campus site is open to the public so you can walk around, explore, pray over the land, or visit the Japanese gardens. Please do not enter construction zones. 

What else can we expect?
We’re planning our move to the best of our abilities, but as with any large project some elements will be outside our control and we need to be prepared to ‘expect the unexpected’. We will let you know if any of our plans need to change. When we arrive at the new campus there will be a period of settling in as we make our new space feel like home over the subsequent months.