A new large, collaborative school in Christchurch's east has been opened today by the Prime Minister.

Haeata Community Campus has combined three primary schools and a high school in Aranui.

Bill English said he is positively gobsmacked by the facilities.

The school hosts students from year one to 13, and already has more than 950 students - with a focus on innovative and creative learning.

English said he hopes it's as different as it sounds and looks in the report.

Education Minister Hekia Parata said the campus will enable young people to complete their full education - as it caters for preschool, and connects with tertiary institutes.

She said a lot of innovative and creative work has gone into the facility, but all of it is anchored in what works best.

The campus was built as part of a $298 million private-public partnership for four schools, including the Haetea campus, to be built.