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.
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
Going back just over 25 years
Going back just over 25 years
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.
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.