Tamaki College

From two separate campuses to a unified institution, Tamaki College has a unique history. Tamaki College opened in Glen Innes, Auckland, in 1955. The original plan was to establish separate boys’ and girls’ colleges. This led to the school operating on two sites until 1987. The ‘girls’ school, unfortunately, closed in 2003 after a devastating fire. Today, Tamaki College stands as a co-educational secondary school serving Glen Innes and Panmure. Tamaki College celebrated its Diamond Jubilee in 2017, marking 62 years of educational service. The school has undergone significant redevelopment since 1998. This includes the addition of a recreation center, a technological block, and a modern library. Tamaki College actively participates in the “Trades Academies” and “Services Academies” initiatives of the New Zealand Ministry of Education. This provides students with valuable vocational training and pathways to future careers. The school also partners with Pacific Futures Limited in the Tereora Academy. This innovative program helps guide students interested in science toward higher education in health and science fields. Tamaki College is a member of the International Students Code and welcomes students from around the globe. As of a 2017 review, the school had a roll of 631 students. This included two international students. The student body reflects the rich diversity of Auckland, with a composition of 50% boys and 50% girls. The ethnic makeup includes 33% Maori, 1% Pakeha, 32% Tongan, 15% Samoan, 10% Cook Islands Maori, 5% Niuean, and 4% other ethnicities. Tamaki College’s houses, named after native New Zealand plants – Kowhai, Puriri, Rata, and Totara – foster a sense of community and friendly competition. Each house has its own captains and deputies, encouraging student leadership. At the heart of Tamaki College lies Te Poho o Tamaki, the school’s Marae complex. All students and staff are formally welcomed into the school community through a traditional powhiri ceremony held on the marae. This reinforces the school’s commitment to its cultural heritage and creates a strong sense of belonging.