[Glo & Gil]

Hi all

We are considering propositions in both regions, Napier & Manukau.

I would like your opinion , taking into account that we are moving with a boy of 16. So following issues are important : college (art & design ), environment , sports = rugby , swimming etc ,

thks for your help

glo

[westies]

Manaukau is located in South Auckland, which has some pretty rough areas, however there are also some up and coming areas too, so my answer would be check out the schools if you can find a good one then you will be fine. I would definately check out both areas first, havent been to Napier but heard its lovely, don't know about the schools though. You can probably guess from this my main concern would be the schools.
Good luck

[kanatakiwi]

I think Napier wins hands down on the environment. It is a lovely town in a beautiful area with lots of amenities. As for sports, both areas have excellent sporting opportunities. Swimming and surfing are a huge part of life in the Hawkes Bay area.

Of course there are good opportunities in Auckland too (Manukau being a suburb of auckland) but the city is huge compared to Napier and I think the quality of life in Napier would be excellent. More choices in auckland but as noted by Westies, Manukau is not the greatest area, unless you can afford to live in the "good" areas which are expensive.

I'm not sure about the school situation in Napier in terms of art and design. I have friends in Auckland who send their 14 year old girl to boarding school in Napier because they say its an excellent school.

Have a look at this website for possible schools in both Napier and Auckland.
http://www.artfind.co.nz/html/artschools.php I think these are all tertiary level schools, but lots of choose from. Napier has two boys colleges at the high school level, and one co-ed school which is Tamatea High School
http://www.tamatea.school.nz/