From its humble beginnings as a small private girls’ school in 1928 Marist College stands proudly today. This is Marist College. Founded by the Marist Sisters a Roman Catholic order of women the college initially bore a different name. It was known as Marist Convent High School. Later it became Marist Sisters’ College. The name Marist College that we know today arrived only in 1996.
Marist College’s story is one of growth and evolution. In its early years it was even a boarding school. This was between 1928 and 1936. It housed both primary and secondary students. The two pioneering figures were Mother Bernard an Irish woman and Sister Austin from Australia. The school greatly expanded after the construction of Colin House in 1945. This building is named after Jean-Claude Colin one of the founders of the Marist family. By 1955 the school had 93 students. Integration into the state system in 1981 led to significant expansion. The student body grew to 411. By 2010 the number had swelled to 750. In 2019 the student roll sat at 760.
The boarding facility closed in 1978 due to staff shortages. In 2001 the Marist Sisters of New Zealand gifted the college to the Roman Catholic Bishop of Auckland. Marist College is a significant part of the community. In 2020 the school faced a significant challenge. There was a large COVID-19 outbreak. The school also found itself at the heart of a controversy. Students protested against what they perceived as systemic racism within the school.
Marist College holds a special place in Auckland’s history. It is more than just a school. It is an institution which has shaped the lives of countless young women. Many notable alumnae have graced its halls. These include Lucy Lawless Agnes Loheni and Sonja Yelich. The college boasts an impressive academic record. In 2021 Metro Magazine ranked it as Auckland’s top-performing school in Level 1 Mathematics. Its science department received recognition for its innovative junior programme. It was declared a best practice school by Te Ihuwaka. Marist College is an active and thriving institution. It is a place where faith academics and community spirit combine.
This is Marist College a place of history learning and community. A legacy continues to grow and evolve. This is Marist College a beacon of education and faith in Auckland.