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"Happy, Confident Learners"

 

About Us

Wakari School is a Contributing Primary School located in the hill suburbs of Dunedin. We cater for children from ages 5 – 11 (Years 1 – 6). The School has a Roll of around 300 pupils which increases as new entrants join us throughout the year. 

 

 

 

 

Our Values

At Wakari School we promote our values of 

Honesty, Manners, Respect, Cooperation & Kindness.

As a Family orientated school we promote and encourage parental involvement. This assistance is vital for the children’s education during their time with us. School Camps, trips, swimming and School Fairs would simply not be possible without the assistance that Whanau offer. Our school has a proud tradition of community involvement stretching back to 1858! 

Our Vision and Aims

Wakari prides itself on developing its Vision with our pupils; “Happy, Confident Learners”. We look to achieve this through a Co-operative Approach to Teaching and Learning. We have Three Syndicates across the School which operate in Learning Hubs. We aim to provide our pupils with the means to achieve their best in a caring, safe and secure environment. Wakari School benefits from a true team approach. 

What We Offer
  • Experienced and well qualified teachers 
  • Dedicated support staff 
  • Forward-looking and innovative school 
  • Positive, respectful environment 
  • Flexible learning environment 
  • Effective learning support programmes 
  • Large grass areas 
  • Great playgrounds 
  • Swimming pool 
  • Community support 

 

What's happening at Wakari School?

Latest Notices

Community Fun Day
25 Aug 2026

The Home and School Group is helping to host our Community Fun Day on November 1st, and we’re looking for local businesses, workplaces and organisations who would like to get involved.
We’re seeking donations of raffle prizes, activities, or sponsorship to help make the day a fantastic event for our community.

If you know of a business, workplace or organisation that may be interested in supporting us, please get in touch with us (ruthk.crombie@gmail.com or acobsal@live.com) for more information. See letter attached.

We’d love to hear from you and really appreciate any support! 🎉

Wakari-School-Family-Fun-Day-request-of-support-letter-2026.pdf

Important Information: Playground
20 Jul 2026

Kia ora Wakari School whānau,

I’m writing on behalf of the Board of Trustees to provide an initial advisory regarding the playground upgrade currently underway.

During the early stages of the work, a small amount of asbestos-containing material was identified. We want to reassure you that we have already sought guidance from qualified contractors, WorkSafe, and the Ministry of Education. Based on the advice received so far, it is safe and we have cordoned off the area to avoid the asbestos being disrupted whilst plans are confirmed for its removal. 

Clear signage and barriers will be in place, and staff will ensure students remain well away from these zones.

We will update you as more information becomes available and once a confirmed removal plan is in place. The safety of our tamariki and community remains our highest priority.

Ngā mihi nui,
Jason Sargeant 
Presiding Member
Wakari School Board of Trustees

Reporting in 2026 and 2027
26 May 2026

The Ministry has provided new reporting guidelines to align with the revised New
Zealand Curriculum.

Please see the attached document.

New-Reporting-Statement-for-Schools-May-2026.pdf

Board of Trustees Announcement
19 May 2026

Kia ora koutou,

The Wakari School Board would like to share an important announcement with our school community regarding our Principal, Stacey Gribben.

After an extraordinary 34 years of dedicated service to Wakari School, Stacey has made the decision to retire from her role at the end of the 2026 school year.

Stacey has been an integral part of Wakari School for over three decades, initially as Deputy Principal, prior to becoming Principal 4 years ago. Throughout this time, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and the wider community. Her leadership has been characterised by deep care for every learner, a strong sense of community, and a passion for educational excellence. Under her guidance, Wakari School has continued to grow as a place of happy, confident learners.

The Board, on behalf of the entire school community, wishes to express our deep gratitude and appreciation for Stacey’s outstanding contribution. Her knowledge, dedication, and genuine love for the school have left a lasting legacy that will be felt for many years to come.

We know that many past and present families, staff, and students will join us in thanking Stacey for her remarkable service and wishing her all the very best for a well-earned and fulfilling retirement.

Jason Sargeant

Presiding Member, Wakari Primary Board of Trustees

School ski trips 2026
4 May 2026

Please email expressions of interest for the trips that you are interested in attending. The dates are as follows 

August 8/9 please email Liz Bellerby on lbellerby88@gmail.com

September 12/13 please email Ingrid Roberts on ingrid.roberts@hotmail.co.nz

September 27-29 and 1/2 October please email Liz Bellerby on lbellerby88@gmail.com

More information will follow via email 

Supporters and Sponsors

Parents, please support our local businesses

Subway – Dunedin Highmark Homes Dunedin Thai Opal Dunedin Vets on Balmac Alana Carroll - Ray White Sheds Direct OfficeMax KIDOGO
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