Dilworth School is one of the largest boarding schools in Australasia. With junior, senior, and outdoor campuses across three locations, a day school option soon to be available at Year 7 & 8, and approximately 500 students, all on fully funded scholarships, it stands alone in the New Zealand educational landscape for both its model and the ...

Dilworth School was founded in accordance with the terms of the Will of early Auckland farmer and businessman, Irish-born James Dilworth who died in 1894. The endowment was to be used to fund a boarding school for students from good families whose circumstances may prevent them from fulfilling their full potential.

The boys-only boarding school opened on 12 March 1906 in the old Dilworth homestead, with just eight boys and one teacher. Now known as Dilworth School, it has grown to be the largest boarding-only school in Australasia.

In the case of an emergency during the school holidays, please contact the Dilworth Trust Board

Dilworth School was founded in accordance with the terms of the Will of early Auckland farmer and businessman, Irish-born James Dilworth who died in 1894. The endowment was to be used to fund a boarding school for students from good families whose circumstances may prevent them from fulfilling their full potential.

Applications for Dilworth School in 2026 are now open. Each year there are places available for Year 7 and 8 students at the Junior Campus and Year 9 to Year 12 at the Senior Campus. Our admissions process covers several stages:

Boarding allows students to get involved in everything Dilworth has to offer. It also develops skills and independence, opening up a world of opportunity. A strong family and community culture is created to enhance students’ experience.

What we look for in a prospective Dilworth student. Dilworth offers young men a scholarship worth around $50,000 a year that includes everything from access to music lessons and instruments, tuition, sporting equipment, uniforms, accommodation, meals and so much more.

Our school is committed to learning and personal excellence, has a strong academic record and pass rate in NCEA, small class sizes and specialist teachers. We offer a wide range of extracurricular activities including a high-performance sports academy and music lessons.

What is involved in applying for a scholarship to Dilworth School? The admissions process involves a number of stages. This will include an interview with the head of admissions, a school visit and, for final shortlisted candidates, an interview with the Headmaster and Trustees.