Tūhuratia te Wāhi Ngaro –
Explore the Sacred
Hoani Tapu (St Johns Theological College) has been providing innovative and transformative theological education and formation since 1843. Join us as we acknowledge, uphold, maintain and restore Te Tapu a Te Atua (the sacredness of God), a Te Tangata (of humanity), a te whenua (of the land/environment), a te Hāhi (of the Church).
Take your place in our sacred story
At Hoani Tapu/St John’s Theological College, we truly value our deep connection to the land and the people we serve. Our college is dedicated to honoring the rich and sacred cultural and theological context of Aotearoa and the Pacific.
Built on the covenantal principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, we embrace a Three-Tikanga Church model—Māori, Pākehā, and Pasefika—to ensure our teachings are inclusive and deeply rooted in the unique tapestry of our communities.
We invite you to join us in this journey of faith and learning, where every voice is valued and every perspective enriches our shared mission.
Hei puna wai e pupū ake ana, ā te ora tonu rā anō.
A spring of water gushing up to eternal life.
– John 4:14
“St John’s is a a great taonga of the Anglican church, and in fact the wider church, a place of both holiness and historical significance. It is significantly helping to shape the future by forming amazing clergy and leaders.”
At Hoani Tapu/St Johns Theological College, spiritual formation is central to our community. Rooted in Scripture and early church traditions, spiritual practices help us draw closer to the God who loves us unconditionally. These practices nurture growth, shape identity, and equip us to live out the Gospel in today’s world.
Our diverse Anglican heritage encompasses Evangelical, High Church, and Māori and Pacific expressions of faith. This richness is reflected in spiritual practices such as daily services, Ignatian contemplation, Māori and Pacific spirituality, intercessory prayer, lectio and visio divina, and contemporary worship. We make space for, invite, and at times engage in a variety of spiritual practices that reflect our diverse heritage and cultural backgrounds. These practices connect timeless truths with contemporary challenges, grounding us in God’s love and enabling meaningful engagement with the world.
As a three tikanga college, we celebrate both unity and diversity, fostering an inclusive and authentic space for spiritual growth. Students are equipped to explore their faith, deepen self-awareness, and embody the Gospel in their unique contexts. Through these practices, our community experiences the transformative power of faith, shaping lives that reflect God’s grace and truth with integrity, joy, and purpose.

Cultural Focus
Our three-tikanga theological approach honours Pākehā, Māori and Pasefika communities, bringing diverse wisdom and experience to learning

Research Excellence
Fostering a vibrant community of theological scholarship and research that responds to the needs and challenges of Aotearoa

Flexible Learning
Live on site, distance learning and co-learning partnerships with fellow institutions enable you to study at your chosen place and your own pace
Here your voice isn’t just heard—it’s transformative. Your insights play a vital role in shaping every aspect of college life, from learning and ministry to the broader community. By sharing your perspectives, you help the College grow and evolve, ensuring it remains responsive to your educational journey and vocational path.
We’re committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and empowerment where your ideas and experiences enrich our shared community. Through open dialogue, you can actively engage in your theological education, contribute to governance, and shape the life and mission of the College.
“Theological education adds depth and integrity to our faith, our understanding of God and the Bible, and our understanding of each other.”