Nga Tawa Diocesan School

Founded in 1891, the school is committed to empowering girls to achieve extraordinary outcomes by fostering their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth. It operates on a model of servant leadership and emphasizes a nurturing, inclusive environment where students can embrace their individuality and grow at their own pace. The school's special character is overseen by the Nga Tawa Diocesan Trust Board.

The school follows the NCEA curriculum, offering a comprehensive academic programme across various subjects including Humanities, Sciences, Mathematics, English, Languages, and Creative Industries. It also provides a specialized Equestrian Academy programme and opportunities for Performing Arts and spiritual development. The curriculum is designed to cater to the distinct educational and developmental needs of girls.

Nga Tawa has a strong history of academic achievement, consistently ranking in the top tier of NCEA results. In 2023, the school achieved a 100% pass rate at NCEA Levels 1, 2, and 3, with all Year 13 students achieving University Entrance. The school aims to produce confident, articulate, and resilient young women prepared for tertiary study and meaningful lives.

The school employs a dedicated Director of Wellbeing, a school counsellor, and a school nurse to support student health and emotional needs. Small class sizes are a core feature, allowing teachers to be responsive to individual learning needs and to develop strong relationships with students.

Nga Tawa offers various enrolment options, including day girl, two-day boarder, weekly boarder, and full boarder status, depending on the family's proximity to the school. The application process involves submitting a form, followed by a school tour and an interview with the Principal. The school also provides shuttle services to and from Feilding, Palmerston North, Whanganui, and Wellington.

The school hosts an annual Open Day, typically held in August, for prospective families to visit the campus.

Located on 90 acres of farmland, the campus features the Event Centre, which houses an indoor basketball/netball court, rowing and cycling facilities, a gym, weights room, and an indoor rock climbing wall. Outdoor facilities include a 2km multipurpose track, a 25-metre swimming pool, three netball courts, four tennis courts, and a main field with an artificial cricket wicket and practice area. The school also maintains boarding facilities for its residential students.

The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities, including a dedicated Equestrian Academy with resident and visiting coaches. Students can participate in sports such as basketball, netball, rowing, cycling, rock climbing, athletics, cricket, softball, football, swimming, and tennis. Additionally, students have opportunities for leadership and service through roles such as Student Council members, School Prefects, Board of Trustees representatives, and peer supporters.