Our Story

Established in 1875 by the Williams family, Hukarere Girls’ College began as Hukarere Native School for Girls, located on Mataruahou (Bluff Hill) in Napier. In 2003, the College relocated to Herepoho in Eskdale, just outside Napier. In 2023, the school faced significant damage from Cyclone Gabrielle and was subsequently relocated to its current home in Havelock North.

Our school motto, “Kia Ū Ki Te Pai” – “Cleave to that which is good” – comes from Romans 12:9 and embodies the values at the heart of our kura. Hukarere is founded on the principles of the Anglican faith (Te Hāhi Mihinare) and strongly upholds Māori identity and culture. This unique blend shapes an environment where kōhine can grow into confident, grounded young women, prepared for life in an ever-changing world.

Every kōhine who walks through our gates contributes to the living legacy of Hukarere — her story becomes a cherished feather woven into the collective korowai of our school.

Our school community is intentionally small, with a roll of under 100 students, including around 60 boarders. Whether living in our hostel or attending as a day student, each kōhine receives individual attention and is embraced within a nurturing, whānau-like environment.

Through the integration of Oranga Ake, our approach to education is holistic — nurturing the spiritual, academic, emotional, and cultural wellbeing of every student. We are committed to developing future leaders who embody the values of Te Hāhi Mihinare, are grounded in te reo Māori me ōna tikanga, and are ready to serve their whānau, hapū, and iwi.

Our Houses

Hukarere is made up of three houses, each representing an essential part of our kura’s identity:

  • Awhina – Awhina Waaka

  • Reremoana – Reremoana Hakiwai

  • Merehana – Merehana Hall 

Our Core Values

Our values are drawn from the teachings of Te Hāhi Mihinare and enriched by the principles of Oranga Ake. These values shape the character of every Hukarere kōhine:

  • Aroha – Love

  • Kotahitanga – Unity

  • Manaakitanga – Generosity and care

  • Tautoko – Support

  • Whakapono – Faith and trust

  • Whanaungatanga – Connection and belonging