Waiheke High School
Whāia te pae tawhiti
Pursue the furthest horizon
Our Vision
Inspired Learners
Proud Learners
We are the waka that guides our rangatahi on their individual journey to success.
Whakataukī
Whāia te pae tawhiti.
Pursue your goals to the furthest horizon.
WISE Values
Whanaungatanga
Independence
School Culture
Excellence
The Waiheke Way
The Waiheke Way is centred around the three aspirations of being ready, respectful and safe and was developed in consultation with staff and students at WHS.
Piringākau
Meaning “close to the heart”, Piringākau is the name of our Maori department. We apply Piringākau to our kapa haka group, to our junior and senior classes and our whanau support.
Island Based
Our character reflects that of our island; a unique place with a strong identity. We are proud of our connection with our environment and our diverse community.
About Waiheke High
Established in 1986, Waiheke High School is the only island based high school in New Zealand and caters for students from years 7-13.
In a relatively short time, we have accomplished an enviable academic record, recognising the top overall scholar and top Maori student of New Zealand as just some of our students’ outstanding successes.
School Hours
MON – FRI: 8.30am – 3:10pm
except WED: 9am – 3:10pm
Office: 8am-4pm
Address
Phone
(09) 371 9000
Our Values
At WHS we operate under four core WISE values:
Whanaungatanga (caring for all)
Independence
School Culture
Excellence
These values underpin all of the actions that staff and students take and should be at the forefront of all of our interactions.
Piringākau
Piringākau, meaning “close to the heart”, is the name of the Māori department at Waiheke High School. The name was initiated by Michelle Lee in consultation with Piritahi marae and kaumatua, Kato Kauwhata in 1997.
Today we apply Piringākau to our kapa haka group, to our junior and senior classes and our whanau support (parent group).
Quick Links
Te Tiriti o Waitangi
The school gives effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, including by:
- Working to ensure its plans, policies and local curriculum reflect local tikanga Māori, mātauranga Māori and te ao Māori.
- Taking all reasonable steps to make instruction available in tikanga Māori and te reo Māori.
- Achieving equitable outcomes for Māori students.
Our Curriculum
Waiheke High School is committed to providing a comprehensive and engaging curriculum that empowers our ākonga to become confident, resilient, and informed citizens. By incorporating local context into a diverse range of subjects, we foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Our curriculum is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Incorporating principles of Te Ao Māori, our curriculum fosters a deep respect for culture, language, and environment. We aim to create a learning environment that respects and values diversity, and prepares our students to be active and engaged citizens in a bicultural New Zealand.
National Standards and NCEA
Tracking student achievement against national benchmarks such as PATs and eAsTTle.
Formative and summative assessment
Providing ongoing feedback to inform teaching and learning.
Portfolio assessment
Showcasing student growth and development over time.
Student self-assessment
Encouraging students to reflect on their learning and set goals.
Extracurricular involvement
Recognizing student contributions to school and community life.
WHS Alumni
Celebrating 40 Years:
Waiheke High School Reunion 2026
Next year, Waiheke High School reaches a significant milestone – our 40th Anniversary! To celebrate this incredible journey and the successes of our kura and alumni, we’re planning a special reunion event for all past students and staff.
Mark your calendars for Friday, April 10th and Saturday, April 11th, 2026. We’re planning an engaging weekend, including:
- Friday Evening: Casual drinks at a local Waiheke venue.
- Saturday Daytime: A relaxed reunion picnic and a tour of Waiheke High School.
- Saturday Evening: A celebratory reunion dinner at Goldie Estate.
School News
