Mahinawa Specialist School

Welcome to Mahinawa Specialist School and Resource Centre, located in Porirua, New Zealand. We are a state-of-the-art educational institution that caters to students between the ages of five and twenty-one who have intellectual, physical, emotional, and/or behavioral needs that prevent them from thriving in regular mainstream classrooms.

At Mahinawa, we understand the unique challenges faced by these students and provide them with a comprehensive, integrated program of education and therapy. Our dedicated team of professionals from various disciplines work together to ensure that each student receives the individualized support they require to reach their full potential.

Situated in a vibrant and multicultural community, Mahinawa Specialist School and Resource Centre is proud to be a part of the diverse fabric of Porirua. Our school is located on Takapuwahia Drive, offering convenient access for students and their families from a wide catchment area, spanning from Te Horo to Wellington and Hutt Valley.

As a Decile Five school, we are committed to providing a high-quality education to all students, regardless of their socio-economic background. We believe in creating an inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to learn.

Currently, our school is spread across nine sites, each offering a unique and tailored learning environment. However, we are excited to announce that we will be expanding in 2022, with the addition of two new sites. This expansion will allow us to further enhance our facilities and offer an even greater range of resources to our students.

One of the key strengths of Mahinawa Specialist School and Resource Centre is our high staff to pupil ratios. This ensures that each student receives the attention and support they need to succeed academically and manage their behaviors effectively. Our teaching focus revolves around developing individualized learning programs that cater to the specific needs of each student, fostering their growth and development.

We work closely with numerous community and government agencies, who refer students to our institution. This collaborative approach enables us to provide a holistic and comprehensive support system for our students, empowering them to overcome their challenges and thrive in their educational journey.

At Mahinawa Specialist School and Resource Centre, we are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our students. We believe that every child has the right to an inclusive and empowering education, and we strive to create an environment where they can flourish. Join us on this incredible journey of learning and growth, and together, let's unlock the potential within each student.