Akaroa Area School prides itself on the support available for students with special needs. These children are referred by classroom teachers and receive support either in the classroom or in the specially resourced Learning Support Centre; individually or in small groups.

Extra assistance for assessing the needs of these students and in the planning of appropriate programmes, is provided by specialist services when necessary. The school also recognises the learning needs of highly able students and these needs are catered for in various ways.