Our school

“The best all-round secondary education in the Wairarapa — where every student is supported, and given pathways to succeed.”

About Wairarapa College

For over 100 years, Wairarapa College has been at the heart of its community, providing generations of students with a high-quality education grounded in opportunity, belonging, and achievement. Our proud history shapes who we are today, while our focus remains firmly on preparing students for the future.

At Wairarapa College, we are defined by a strong culture of care and high expectations. Grounded in our LEAD values; Learn with purpose, Engage with pride, Act with respect, Dare to succeed, we support every student to grow academically, socially, physically, and personally.

Set on expansive grounds with the Tararua Ranges as our backdrop, our College reflects the very best of urban and rural New Zealand. It is a place where students feel a strong sense of belonging and are encouraged to make the most of every opportunity.

We are committed to academic excellence, with students achieving success across NCEA Levels 1, 2 and 3, as well as Scholarship, at rates above national averages. Beyond the classroom, students are challenged and extended through opportunities such as the National Mathematics Competition, ICAS English, Writing, Mathematics and Science, and a wide range of subject-specific pursuits that promote curiosity and ambition.

Learning at Wairarapa College is both broad and purposeful. Alongside strong academic pathways, students can engage in innovative Sports, Performing Arts and Te Iti Kahurangi academies, as well as our Aviation Programme. Our on-site school farm and specialist facilities further enrich hands-on, real-world learning experiences.

Our senior students consistently gain entry into their preferred university courses and hostels, supported by strong guidance and clear pathways for future success.

A defining feature of the College is the commitment of our staff to extracurricular life. This dedication creates high levels of student participation and achievement across a wide range of cultural, sporting and service activities building confident, connected young people ready to contribute to their communities.

At Wairarapa College, students don’t just attend school, they connect, engage, and LEAD.

Special features of the College include:

  • A strong culture of care and high expectations, underpinned by our LEAD values—Learn with purpose, Engage with pride, Act with respect, Dare to succeed
  • A genuinely broad curriculum, with rich academic, cultural, sporting, and service pathways so every student can discover and grow their strengths
  • Innovative Sports, Performing Arts, and Te Iti Kahurangi academies, alongside our Aviation Programme, providing specialised pathways that inspire passion and open future opportunities
  • Authentic, hands-on learning through purpose-built technology spaces and our on-site school farm, bringing Agriculture and Horticulture to life
  • Deep connections to the Wairarapa community, creating meaningful opportunities, partnerships, and real-world pathways beyond the classroom
  • A highly responsive and inclusive Student Support network, including Counsellors, Learning Support Coordinators, Youth Workers, Health Practitioners, and our Language Resource Department
  • A commitment to inclusion through Whare Āwhina (Supported Learning Centre), ensuring students with additional needs are supported to learn, belong, and succeed

School Expectations – LEAD Values 

Wairarapa College expects high standards to encourage and develop character, positive participation and contribution within and beyond the school.  The Wairarapa College values are demonstrated by our LEAD acronym.  Learn with purpose - Kia tapatahi te ako  Engage with pride - Kia whakahī te mahi tahi  Act with respect - Kia nui te whakaute  Dare to succeed - Kia eke ki te angitū