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.

Student, Waiheke High School

School Hours

MON – FRI: 8.30am – 3:10pm
except WED: 9am – 3:10pm
Office: 8am-4pm

Address

Email

Phone

(09) 371 9000

Waiheke Hogh School x

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.

Piringakau, Waiheke High School

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).

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.

Drama at Waiheke High School
Music and Drama at Waiheke High School

School News

Principal’s Pānui: Reporting to Parents

Principal’s Pānui: Reporting to Parents

Reporting to parents at least twice a year is an important requirement for all schools in Aotearoa, and our first formal reporting cycle for the year is approaching at the end of this term. Over the past 18 months, we have been diligently working on significant enhancements within our junior school ...
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Matariki Celebration, Thursday, 19th June,  A Call for Support

Matariki Celebration, Thursday, 19th June, A Call for Support

This magical day, a highlight for everyone involved, culminates in a hangi feast that traditionally feeds 500 people. It's a testament to the dedication and hard work (mahi) of our four school houses, who spend the term practicing waiata and kapa haka. Their performances are a vibrant display of pri...
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Waka Ama Nationals, 2025

Waka Ama Nationals, 2025

What a truly amazing week away our 19 students experienced at the NZ Waka Ama Nationals at the Blue Lake (Lake Tikitapu) in Rotorua. Our kids showed amazing dedication, courage, resilience, camaraderie and passion, and learnt so much about their teammates, fellow paddlers and the sport.
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