Ngāti Toa Charter School Announcement
E te iwi, we’re excited to announce the confirmation of Charter School status for Kura Toa, marking a significant milestone in the development of our iwi-led educational ecosystem Te Ākau Roa.
This decision enables us to scale a model that we have been piloting since 2023.
Kura Toa forms the long-term education vision, Te Ākau Roa - enabling choice and creating enduring pathways for Ngāti Toa rangatahi.
With charter status confirmed:
Kura Toa will operate as an independent charter school for Years 7–13.
Enrolment will scale through a phased approach over three years. Priority will be given to Ngāti Toa uri.
Maximum enrolment capacity will grow to up to 200 students.
A formal governance structure is established in accordance with Charter School requirements.
The kura will continue refining its curriculum framework and delivery model.
More information about enrolments will be shared in upcoming pānui, for any queries please contact: patakatoa@ngatitoa.iwi.nz
How does Kura Toa differ from Kura Taiao (announced last year)?
Kura Taiao is a separate initiative approved under special character status in 2021.
It is a proposed Māori medium Kura ā Iwi (Years 0–13) designed as a purpose-built environmental learning and research centre, where land and water serve as primary teaching sites.
The school is currently progressing through Ministry of Education development phases, including land acquisition and facility planning. The projected opening remains 2029–2030, subject to government processes.
We’re excited to bring you along on this journey as we progress through the next phases of Kura Toa.
Kura Toa FAQ’s and overview, click here for more details.
Mā te huruhuru, ka rere te manu