Since 1989, Rimbrook has been home to hundreds of students of Waikato University and Wintec. Over this time, many people have also come through its doors for social, service, study and spiritual activities. 

Rimbrook provides an environment conducive to character and personal growth. Individuals can study and learn while at the same time have a good time and form lasting friendships. Each of Rimbrook’s programmes tries to achieve this goal by fostering good work habits and a spirit of service.

MISSION

To help all women fulfill their potential.

VALUES

Character, Leadership & Service

Rimbrook is a project of Education Sponsorship Trust (EST), a registered charitable trust which aims to promote education and the development of character in accordance with the ideals of Christianity.

More information regarding EST and its Guidelines for Safeguarding Young People are available at est.org.nz

A BRIEF HISTORY

Rimbrook Study Centre was established on 14 February 1989 with the aim of creating a 'Home away from home' for students of Waikato University and Wintec.

The live-in residence would provide a positive study and family environment; something different to what was offered in the flatting scene.

Pooling together their resources, Rimbrook’s founders secured a little house in the middle of a paddock at 64 Hillcrest Road. After much debate, that little house was christened 'Rimbrook'. The now familiar name is a combination of ‘Rim-' from the great Rimu tree that still stands in the backyard and '-brook’- describing the Waikato River.

Since Rimbrook first opened its doors in 1989, Rimbrook has been both a home, and a site of substantial growth and activity.

In 1992, major renovations took place adding a new kitchen, dining room, and bedrooms.

In 2013, Rimbrook purchased 64A Hillcrest Road to further increase its capacity for residents. Now, an estimated 200 individuals attend Rimbrook’s activities each year.

Theresa helbano

MANAGING
DIRECTOR

Theresa (aka Tessa) ventured up from the capital to study and start her career in chemistry. Although she has now been around the world, she has found herself back in the Waikato.

As well as overseeing the residence, Theresa coordinates character development activities for women from 8 to 98 years old.

Theresa is nearing 10 years experience working with youth through mentoring and coordinating activities.  

SALLY COLMAN

Head of HOUSEHOLD Administration

Since moving to Rimbrook in 2015, Sally has used her eye for detail to help Rimbrook residents feel at home away from home.

Sally’s a true artist both in the kitchen and in her art studio. She’s responsible for most of the interior decoration as well as the paintings on the wall. 

LYNDA O’FARRELL

HOUSEHOLD SERVICE COORDINATOR

Lynda grew up in Newcastle, Australia, but we won’t hold that against her. She’s been working in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years so has Rimbrook running in ship-shape.

Once you get past her Aussie drawl, you’ll discover she can speak fluent Spanish. Her travels around the globe have given her a refined taste for international cuisine, but for her, nothing beats a good ol’ barbie.

OPUS DEI

Founded by St Josemaria Escriva in 1928, Opus Dei spreads the message that everyone can find God in their ordinary activities of daily life. Opus Dei seeks to help all people live a life consistent with their faith. Opus Dei is a Personal Prelature of the Catholic Church which has members in all parts of the world.

The spiritual activities that Rimbrook provides are entrusted to Opus Dei.