[Joanna]

Does anyone know the Tauriko area of Tauranga? Would like any info on this area or surrounding ones in Tauranga. Are they family areas and what are the schools like? Thanks for any help.

[kowhai]

Tauriko is a rural area undergoing quite a bit of development - namely the new " Lakes " residential property development. It is being developed to a very high standard. A new primary school will eventually be built here and the smaller current Tauriko primary will be closed. The current school has a very good reputation.


Pyes Pa is close by. Again a rural area which is being developed. This is an affluent area with beautiful homes on 3000m2 sections. Namely Freeburn Park. Aquinas Catholic College in Pyes Pa caters for years 7 on. and has an excellent reputation. They do take in a small % of non Catholic students each year.

Happy to answer any further questions.

[LesleyS]

I live close to 'The Lakes' in Pyes Pa, and my child attends the school - feel free to ask any questions

[Joanna]

Thanks very much for your replies. Is the Lakes development going to cause alot of disruption in the local area? And does anybody know the reputation of Tauranga Boys' College? We live in Wellington at the moment but will be in Tauranga by Christmas. So just trying to get some feedback from people actually living in the area now. Thanks.

[kowhai]

Tauranga Boys School ... generally, it does have a good reputation. Their sports programme is outstanding with very good facilities and many opportunities for gifted young sportsmen.
The boys are streamed according to their academic abilities. There appears to be a very comprehensive range of subjects.
The popular principal retired a few weeks ago after 20 odd years at the School. Not sure what effect his leaving will have.

I have friends who are more than happy to send their sons to the Boys School. I will have to be honest and admit we will not be sending our own sons there. To be blunt we have heard that bullying is a problem. I know that can occur anywhere, but feel its only fair to mention it.

I trust I haven't put you off. As mentioned before I have friends who consider the opportunities available to their children at Tauranga Boys far outweigh any negatives.

[Joanna]

Thanks Kowhai, do you mind me asking which school you are sending your sons to? Thanks.

[kowhai]

Hi Joanna

You may have already seen this link to the Lakes

http://www.thelakestauranga.co.nz/

I haven't heard of any problems caused by the development. Im sure the dust flies around a fair bit on windy days.
Are you aware that a a major highway is also being constructed ? This will pass through Tauriko and the Lakes . Good news for Pyes Pa residents - as traffic will bypass this area. Possibly not so good for Tauriko .

I would take a closer look at either Bethlehem or Aquinas Colleges.

NB: If you wish, I can PM you with more details.

[LesleyS]

I can help with any questions about Aquinas......

[Joanna]

Thank you for your replies. Could you give me a little info on Aquinas Lesley ie. how many pupils? Class sizes? etc. Thanks.