Taumarunui High School

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About Us

Taumarunui High School has a proud tradition of welcoming international students from across the globe to our school, and supports every student to feel like they belong in our wonderful part of the world. Our town is centrally positioned between Auckland and Wellington in the Heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Taumarunui is located near the foot of Mount Ruapehu and at the convergence of the Whanganui and Ongarue rivers. Our school is steeped in tradition and opportunity, and we offer a high quality education in a caring, friendly.

As a school we believe that grasping the opportunities and the facing the challenges that the future brings will suit those who are creative, optimistic and collaborative. Our students will be the leaders, pioneers and determiners of their own destiny!

Learning transcends the boundaries of subjects as much at school as it does in life. We focus on students as learners, not just learners of subjects.

Cross curricular , Integrated, experiential learning puts our learners in the best position to grasp the opportunities and face the challenges that the future will provide.

We have fantastic school grounds, facilities and open areas where our students can relax and socialise. Our classrooms and buildings are regularly upgraded and have high quality equipment to aid learning and teaching and our teachers are passionate and committed.

We believe the people who will be successful in the future are those who are adaptable, who thrive on challenge, who have a strong sense of personal values, and who continue to improve themselves throughout their lives.

Our teaching and learning programmes focus on a range of learning opportunities that meet the needs of our students. We aim to produce young adults who are confident, who are connected to their communities, who strive for excellence and develop the skills to become lifelong learners.

You are invited you to become part of a school community that will support you to face the 21st Century with confidence and assurance.

Our Courses

Senior School

Our senior school has pathways to cater for the needs of a wide range of students. In Year 11 to 13 students can choose any of the following pathways based on their interests and aspirations;

Academic Pathway – Full Academic programme with 6 subjects.
Trades Academy – Building & Construction, Tourism & Hospitality or Farming
Dual Pathway – This allows students to combine either an Academic or a Trades Academy Programme with Outdoor Education or Performing Arts.

All courses lead to a formal NCEA Qualification.

Outdoor Education Programme

Being in the heart of the North Island, means we have the mountains, rivers and lakes on our doorstep and our outdoor programme takes full advantage of the local environment. Activites include;

Kayaking
Skiing
Snowboarding
Tramping
Mountain Biking
Canoeing
Climbing
Camping
Bouldering
Bush-craft
Orienteering
Hunting

Junior School

In year 9 and 10 all students are involved in an integrated learning programme based on their choice of Academy. The integrated learning approach includes a balanced curriculum of the eight learning areas of the NZC with a particular student interest (Academy) flavor.

The Academies are;

Academic
Bush-craft & Conservation
Performing Arts
Sports
Te Kakeno
Trades & Life-skills

School Specific Fees

Tuition

General Tuition Fees apply as shown in the Costs & Dates page.

See also the Costs & Dates page for other information on fees etc.

Homestay Fees

2025: NZD 300 per week.

2026: NZD 300 per week.

Students can arrive for all terms and at any arrival date that suits the student.

Airport Meet and Greet pickup

Airport Transport: NZD 250 each way (from Auckland)

Outdoor Education Course Fees (optional)

Term 1 NZD 200
Term 2 NZD 200
Semester (Term 1 & 2) NZD 300
Term 3 NZD 800
Term 4 NZD 200
Semester (Term 3 & 4) NZD 900
Full Year NZD 1,100

PADI Qualifications in Scuba Diving (optional)

Trips are conducted in terms 1,2 and 4 (Term 3 is too cold).
Trip fee: NZD 1000

Insurance

Total cost of insurance depending on length of stay. We can arrange insurance through UniCare. We will provide a quote based on your exact travel dates. Students can arrange their own insurance but will need to provide details to the school in English.

Our area

International students will find living in our town is more economical when compared to the cities. There are many wonderful outdoor activities to participate in right on our doorstep such as skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, bushwalking and kayaking.

** All fees will be subject to confirmation at the time of applying. Students studying for more than one year should request a quotation.