Principals Welcome

Welcome to Karangahake School, where we invite you and your children to join us to work together to provide your children with a positive and productive learning experience.

At Karangahake Primary School, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive learning environment to grow and inspire for all of our students. Our dedicated teachers and staff work hard to ensure that each student is supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

We encourage you to become an active member of our school community by participating in events and volunteering your time and talents. We believe that a strong partnership between the school, families, and community is essential for student success.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. We have clear commitments to you as a parent / caregiver, or as one of our students, available on our website. Please take time to read our Charter and Strategic Goals along with other policies and information. 

We are here to support you and your child in any way we can.

Thank you for taking the time to visit our website and get to know our great school.


Sincerely,

Terry Watton

Principal, Karangahake Primary School.


Introducing Terry Watton...

I was born and bred in Paeroa, I am married and have two adult children. In my early career I worked as a golf course greenkeeper, and still enjoy playing regularly. I was also a small business owner/operator of a garden centre, and continue to use my green fingers in the garden at school. I completed my teaching degree as an adult and entered the education sector in 2010. I have been the principal of Karangahake School for the past 5 or so years, and like to bike to school when I can.

Karangahake School was established in 1889. Our school has a heritage feel to the buildings, and in 2021, the classrooms and toilets had a renovation and refit. The school pool is also a recent addition and overlooks the magnificent Karangahake Gorge. We have a bottom field with a beautiful vista of Mt Karangahake, a smaller top field and plenty of bush for bush skill development and hut building. The administration and hall buildings were added in 2012 and includes a library and kitchen.

We are situated right across the road from Ohinemuri and Waitawheta Rivers, Mt Karangahake and the many walkways and cycleways that weave through this landscape. We are able to utlise this area for bush discovery, duathlon events and biking fundraisers. The Karangahake Hall is also used for fundraisers, prizegiving and our annual market day.