1970s

The 1970s saw continued growth in both the number and demographic of students, and expanding facilities to accommodate them. More family flats, staff flats, a two-storey accommodation block (East Wing), and a new library were built. Additional faculty were added to the teaching team, all with theological training. The Institute’s name was changed to the Bible College of New Zealand in 1972 to convey more clearly the full picture of the College’s work.

To meet the needs of local churches more effectively, a branch college was established in Christchurch in 1975. Another branch opened in Dunedin in 1978. By the late seventies, 1-3 year Diplomas in mission, ministry and Christian education were being offered.

Jubilee year of the college
JO Sanders wrote "Expanding Horizons"
Eight more Family Flats built
First Student Deans appointed (Helena Stretton & Rod Edwards)

1972

1973

Name change to “The Bible College of New Zealand”.

BCNZ Logo

John Deane Memorial Library

John Deane Memorial Library built above the dining room.
East Wing two-storey accommodation block constructed.
Final 6 family flats built
First branch college established: Christchurch in a building at Middleton Grange School. Hudson Deane appointed the Dean.

1975

BCNZ in the 1970s

1977

BCNZ was recognised as an approved College of the Australian College of Theology (ACT).
BCNZ students have been able to undertake the ACT Diplomas of Ministry or Missiology or a primary degree in Theology – the BTh.

1978

Dunedin branch college established.