Remember Three Kings. This Wesley Training College Memorial Plaque marks a significant piece of history. It commemorates the site of the Three Kings Wesleyan Native Institution. Governor Sir George Grey laid the foundation stone on April 6, 1848. The institution later moved to Wesley College Paerata on August 28, 1922.
Wesley College has a rich history. The Wesleyan Missionary Society established it in 1844. Auckland was then a small waterfront settlement. The school sought to educate young Maori and needy European children. It aimed to provide a sound Christian education.
Originally called the Wesleyan Native Institution, it started with only 10 students. Soon, it attracted others from afar. Many were young men showing leadership promise. The school moved to an 80-hectare farm in Three Kings. This allowed it to be self-sufficient.
In 1876, the school officially became Wesley College. As Auckland grew, Three Kings became less suitable. The city’s expansion and industry were factors. In 1911, the Wesley Training College Trust Board formed. It purchased land in Paerata, about 70km from the city.
World War One delayed the new school’s opening. It finally opened in August 1922. Special provisions were made for Maori and Pacific Island students. During World War Two, the Defence authorities took over the buildings. Students were dispersed. The school eventually reopened in February 1944. Its roll increased significantly over the next two decades.
Wesley College holds a distinguished place in New Zealand’s educational landscape. It is the country’s oldest secondary school. The school has produced many All Blacks and rugby internationals. Many Maori and Pacific Island students have achieved success. They excelled in academia, arts, business, and politics.
Wesley College became the first private school to integrate. It joined the New Zealand State School System in 1976. This provided government funding. It also maintained its special character.
Wesley College has a long list of notable alumni. Temuera Morrison starred in Once Were Warriors and Star Wars. Sir Richard Taylor won six Academy Awards for his work on King Kong and Lord of the Rings. Savage achieved commercial success in the United States. He became a well-known hip hop artist.
Consider this Wesley Training College Memorial Plaque. It symbolizes the enduring legacy of Wesley College. It recognizes its contributions to education, culture, and sport in New Zealand. It also honors the institution’s commitment to Maori and Pacific Island students.