Our History

Wairau Intermediate School opened in 1980 as the first variable space intermediate school on the North Shore. Situated between the suburbs of Forrest Hill and Sunnynook, it seemed that one of these would be taken as the school name. The original Principal, Dave Kerr, was keen to involve the school community in the naming of the school and after much input and discussion, it was decided that the school would be called Wairau Intermediate. Wairau was the original name for the whole area and with an English meaning of "abundant water", it seemed very appropriate with water being the basis of all growth – in our case physical, emotional and academic growth.

Artist Toi Maihi, wife of the Deputy Principal Berry Maihi, designed the school logo to illustrate this theme of abundant water and life.

The principle the school was founded on was to build an atmosphere of caring, respect and collegial support whereby children’s growth could be nurtured in an environment that allowed staff to easily cater for individual needs. Subsequent administrations have built on this principle and the school takes great pride in the fact that it continues to be a very supportive and successful learning institution in the key areas of the academic, physical and emotional development of the emerging adolescent.

Originally built to accommodate 10 classes, the school quickly grew and was added to over the years to reach its present capacity of 16 classes.