St Paul’s is located on the whenua of Ngaati Wairere, an area historically used for maara kai and settlement.

Today, the school continues to be a place of learning, growth, and connection, where students are encouraged to develop an understanding of Te Ao Maaori, Te Reo Maaori, and tikanga Maaori as part of everyday school life.

Te Reo Maaori

All Year 9 students study Te Reo Maaori as part of the core curriculum.

Students develop:

  • foundational language skills
  • understanding of tikanga Maaori
  • confidence in whakawhanaungatanga and relationship-building
  • awareness of local history and identity

Senior students continue to strengthen their language skills through:

  • paanui (reading)
  • tuhituhi (writing)
  • whakarongo (listening)
  • koorero (speaking)

Learning also includes:

  • local Waikato history
  • Ngaati Wairere connections
  • whakatauki and kiiwaha
  • weaving and cultural practice

Ngaa Whakairo O Te Kura — Campus Carvings

The Waharoa featured in the centre of our school represents the importance of being willing to enter a space of not knowing when it comes to learning and personal growth.

Also in the heart of the school are three pou. Waka Maumahara and Tiki Wananga. The three-piece carving encapsulates the values and aspirations of St Paul’s and is a reminder of the interconnected beliefs and values of the school. They represent our learning journeys and how they are shaped by values, beliefs, and people.