Kōwhai Intermediate School

Tēnā Koutou katoa. Welcome and warm greetings to all considering enrolment at Kōwhai Intermediate, New Zealand's first Intermediate School. We are one of the most diverse schools in the country, we are leaders in times of transition, innovation and change, however our success it built and enhanced by those who have come before us and their contributions to education and this community over the last 100 years. Our founding motto, FIAT LUX, means to shine light, like the Kōwhai flowers and aligns with the concept of Te Ao Mārama. Like the Kōwhai tree which is unique in the Aotearoa forests and in our cities, so are we. The Kōwhai tree is the only native tree that flowers before it grows leaves. It blossoms in early spring, standing out in a time of change. Tūī and other native birds track down the Kōwhai and swoop through its branches finding nectar. Its bark is used as rongoa (medicine). Like the Kōwhai tree our school offers a place of sustenance, a place to belong, a place of exploration. We stand out brilliantly and differently from others. We grow and we thrive through change as part of a cycle of life. Like the Kōwhai flower we are bright in our curiosity to learn and explore. We shine in the way we apply ourselves to challenges, change and to our communities. Our vision is to "fly further together", encouraging and leading our students to excel, pushing new boundaries, taking on new challenges together and growing further awareness of their place, as a part of the community and also as a global citizen. We look forward to answering any of your queries and encourage you to visit us, attend one of our open days and our parent information evening.