Question 1

How do school zones work in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

School zones (also called enrolment schemes) are geographic areas that determine which students have guaranteed enrollment at a school. If you live within a school's zone, your child has the right to enroll. Students outside the zone may be accepted through a ballot if spaces are available.

Question 2

What is the Equity Index (EQI)?

Accepted Answer

The Equity Index (EQI) replaced New Zealand's decile rating system in January 2023. Unlike deciles, which were based on census data from surrounding areas, the EQI looks at the actual circumstances of enrolled students using 37 socioeconomic indicators. Each school receives an EQI number from 344 to 569—lower numbers indicate fewer socioeconomic barriers, while higher numbers indicate more barriers and therefore more funding. Importantly, the EQI is not a measure of school quality—it's about how schools are resourced to support their students.

Question 3

What's the difference between state, integrated, and private schools?

Accepted Answer

State schools are fully funded by the government and free to attend. State-integrated schools have a special character (usually religious) and may charge attendance dues. Private schools are independently funded and charge tuition fees.

Question 4

How can I check if my address is in a school zone?

Accepted Answer

Use BoundFor's zone checker tool by entering your address. We'll show you which school zones you're in and provide information about those schools.

Question 5

What does the school roll size mean?

Accepted Answer

Roll size refers to the total number of students enrolled at a school. It can indicate the size of the school community and may affect class sizes, resources, and extracurricular opportunities.

Question 6

How do I compare schools effectively?

Accepted Answer

Look at factors that matter most to your family: location, school type, performance data, special programs, values alignment, and zone status. BoundFor's comparison tools help you evaluate multiple schools side by side.

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