1990s
The appointment of National Principal, Dr John Hitchen, in 1990 heralded a period of significant developments within the College. BCNZ became the first Private Training Establishment to register with the new NZ Qualifications Authority, allowing the offering of our own degrees and access to student loans and allowances. A Māori board, Te Rūnanga, was established, and Hoani Komene appointed the first Kaumatua, Kaiwhakahaere of a Māori department. A Missions Studies Department was formed. Five more branch Colleges opened, and the Manawatu branch began offering Certificate and Diploma courses in Christian Counselling. Eighteen houses were built on the Henderson campus to cater for an increasing demand for family accommodation. By 1997 BCNZ was offering a range of studies from certificate to Masters level.
In 1998 Dr John Hitchen stepped down as National Principal, and prominent NZ church leader Mr Brian Hathaway was appointed to that role.
Classroom in the 1990s
1990
Graduate of the College, Dr John M. Hitchen appointed as National Principal.
1991
College registers with the new NZQA as a Private Training Establishment, becoming the first PTE in NZ to offer degree programmes. A BMin and BD introduced from 1991, followed later by Masters level programmes.
1991
Māori advisory council, Te Rūnanga o te Paipera Aotearoa established on 12 July 1991. John Komene appointed as Kaumatua, Kaiwhakahaere and Tumuaki of the Māori Studies Department.
A licensed BCNZ Childcare Centre opens in Family Flats area.
In accepting the call to that church, his cabled reply was characteristic; "yes, Romans fifteen twenty-nine, sailing July" - "And I am sure that when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ."
Expanding Horizons - Pg 8-9
1992
Bay of Plenty and Southland branch colleges established.
1993
Wellington branch opens
1994
Diploma in Counselling programme starts in Palmerston North.
1996
Peter McKenzie, QC - CNZM, LLM, BD, appointed as President of the College.
1998
Brian Hathaway appointed as Principal.
Brian brought a wealth of experience which included teaching, training educators, writing, pastoral leadership of a large church, wide networking with church leaders and congregations throughout New Zealand and overseas, and leadership in the wider New Zealand Church scene.
1999
10 Regional Learning Centres served 1,879 students
BCNZ The Musical
Various scenes from the BCNZ Musical
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