Tangaroa College is a state co-educational secondary school catering for students from years 9 to 13. The school is located in the Otara suburb of Manukau City some 25 kilometres from downtown Auckland.

The College opened in 1976. It grew rapidly from a roll of 450 students in 2002 to a roll of 1050 students in 2011. The roll of this multi-ethnic college has: 80% Pacific Islands students (Samoan 45%, Cook Island Maori 21%, Tongan 14%), 12% Maori, 2% Indian, and 6% Other.

The school roll remains around 1050 which is near our desired upper limit as this size enables us to provide a wide range of curricula options as well as maintain a strong one-onone focus on assisting students to plan and achieve their learning goals.

The college is nestled in 12 hectares of attractively developed grounds which feature mature trees and spacious playing fields. The rapid roll growth has necessitated major development
of school facilities, teaching and support capacity. It has four main teaching blocks, a technology block, a number of independent classrooms including a whare wananga, a well resourced library and a new gymnasium which is available for the community to use.

The student population is a reflection of the local community. It contains very vibrant communities, strong in Maori and Pasifika values, proud of their cultural heritage and expecting quality learning outcomes for their children. The college reinforces these values and reflects the community’s wishes that all cultures be positively affirmed in the school and all students receive a well rounded education.

The school is an exciting, innovative organisation; it prides itself on the opportunities and support it gives the students. The curriculum programmes are based on the needs of the students and the quality staff has high expectations for student success. The curriculum programmes are supported by a wide range of cultural and sporting activities.

Tangaroa College is committed to meeting the educational aspirations and needs of all students. There are strong links to the community’s other educational establishments. The school continues to forge partnerships with tertiary and industry organisations (eg, the Health Science Academy partnership with Counties Manukau District Health Board) so that students can be supported in their pathway to continued education and employment.