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Ko au ko Ngongotahā, ko Ngongotahā ko au.

Established in 1911 on the outskirts of Rotorua, Ngongotahā School began its journey in a village setting as a single-classroom school with just 33 students. Today, we have grown to include 21 teaching spaces, comprising a blend of traditional and modern flexible learning environments.

Our community is well-served by three local marae, with an additional two situated on the outskirts of the village. Ngongotahā School enjoys a positive, enduring partnership with our local community and iwi. We deeply value the importance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ensuring all students learn about their local area, history, traditions, and language, embracing all aspects of Te Ao Māori.

In addition to English Medium, we are proud to offer students the opportunity to learn within a Māori Medium environment. We provide an environment for all students, staff, and whānau where an understanding, appreciation, and respect for Māori and all other cultures is nurtured.

Our Environment and Facilities

Sited across three levels, the school features well-established grounds designed to encourage physical activity, fitness, and sportsmanship. Our facilities include:

• Open social areas.

• A dedicated Whare Wānanga and a well-resourced library.

• A heated swimming pool and turfed play areas.

• A nature walk, extensive playgrounds, and large field spaces.

The Board is committed to sun safety, providing extensive shade across classrooms and play areas through both shade sails and mature, established trees. Our school is meticulously maintained, providing an attractive and stimulating environment for our learners.

Our Community and Support

The school community reflects a diverse socio-economic base, blending both rural and urban lifestyles. The Ngongotahā business area is vibrant and provides all essential services, complemented by excellent pre-school facilities including daycare centres, kindergartens, and Kōhanga Reo.

We welcome and embrace all students, endeavouring to provide an environment tailored to each child’s individual needs. We are grateful for the support of the Ngāti Whakaue Education Endowment Trust Board; this funding allows us to provide specific literacy and numeracy programmes for students at risk of not achieving. These programmes are facilitated by trained teacher aides and supported by our Learning Support Co-ordinator.

Our Philosophy

We believe students learn best when positive relationships are developed and whanaungatanga is fostered. All classes are well-resourced, and the Board employs teacher assistants to deliver specialised support.

Our staff empower students to achieve personal excellence through shared, authentic experiences both inside and outside the classroom. We encourage our tamariki to develop leadership skills and take ownership of their learning. Our programmes recognise the multicultural society in which we live, fostering mutual respect for all cultural beliefs and helping children develop a lifelong appreciation for their environment.

“Iti rearea Kahikatea ka taea – Aim High Stand Proud”

~ Mission Statement ~

Aim High, Stand Proud

Iti rearea teitei kahikatea ka taea