ABOUT US

Mākoura College is a vibrant, state co-educational school proudly serving Year 9–13 learners right here in the Wairarapa. We also welcome Year 7–8 students from local schools into our dynamic Technology Hub, giving them hands-on learning experiences that build confidence, curiosity, and creativity.

At Mākoura, diversity is celebrated, individuality is embraced, and every learner genuinely matters. We don’t just talk about belonging – we live it. Our inclusive philosophy means every student, every whānau, and every personality has a home here. We’re a small school with a big heart, where relationships come first and every student is known by name, valued for who they are, and supported to shine in their own way.

We’re big believers in innovation, fresh thinking, and bold learning pathways. Our curriculum is meaningful, responsive, and designed around our students – their strengths, their stories, their futures. Instead of focusing on weaknesses, we grow potential. Instead of fitting students into boxes, we open doors. That’s the Mākoura way.

As our roll grows, so does our energy, momentum, and opportunity. 2026 is shaping up to be something special – and we want you to be part of it. Whether you’re a student looking for a school where you’re more than a number, or a whānau wanting an environment that feels warm, human, supportive, and genuinely aspirational — Mākoura College is the place to be in 2026.

FROM MAKORA TO MĀKOURA ...

Mākoura College opened its doors to about 140 third form/year nine students on February 6th 1968. The original name muted for Mākoura was Holdsworth College, however in the end a name from a public competition was chosen.   

Local historian, Ben Irons won with a suggestion of Makora College.  Irons was inspised by the makorā (black-billed gull) that were regularly seen soaring into the sky. He thought the soaring gulls were a great anology of what a school could do for young people's education - taking them to high places.  The college was built on Makora Road, so Makora College seemed fitting.   

However, the naming choice was challenged in the 1980s, with the more significant name of Makoura being adopted.  The name Mākoura represented the local stream of that name and the freshwater crayfish found there. It was argued that the historically Mākoura was a culturally and customary more signifincant so that's how Makora College became Makoura College. The school adopted a macron in Mākoura College in 2019, yet the road continued to be called Makora Road until 2020, when it officially renamed Mākoura Road.

Over the years, Mākoura College has changed from the original site layout, to what we have today.   We offer our students and community a range of facilities which includes: excellent fields, a gymnasium, playing turf, netball courts, a hall and a large library space.​​​​​​​

In 2018, Mākoura College celebrated 50 years of teaching and learning.