Hataitai School

Standing at the top of the Eastern Peninsula in Wellington, Hataitai School is a landmark, a beacon of learning and the embodiment of the resilience of the local community. Founded in 1921 as the Roseneath Side School, it has been a part of the Hataitai landscape for over a century. The school’s motto, “Kia Kaha – Kia Toa; Be Strong, Be Brave”, is a guiding principle for the students and staff. It reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to building confidence and independence in its students. The school’s history goes deeper than its founding in 1921. Its name and spirit are linked to the powerful creatures of Maori legend, Ngake and Whataitai. Ngake, a taniwha or water monster, yearned for freedom and explored the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Whataitai, however, longed to follow, but got stuck in the shallow lake after Ngake left. He gave his body to Mother Earth. His spirit took the form of the bird Te Keo and flew to the top of Mount Victoria, known as Tangi te Keo, the weeping of Te Keo. These tales are embodied in the school’s impressive Pou, a carved totem that stands as a symbol of the school’s history and its commitment to learning and achievement. Today, Hataitai School provides a high-quality education to around 250 students from Years 0 to 8. They are guided by a vision of creating confident, independent, and highly achieving students who enjoy learning. The school fosters a caring and supportive environment for students to reach their full potential through a rich curriculum that includes cultural and sporting opportunities. Hataitai School is not just a place of learning, but a place where students are nurtured and challenged to grow into strong and brave individuals, just like the mythical taniwha who gave the school its name.