We’re thrilled to introduce you to Tōtara Point School – a new, state-funded charter school with a strong Catholic ethos, opening in central Auckland in January 2026.
Rooted in faith and excellence, our school will offer a distinctive education focused on:
Since receiving approval from the Charter School Agency, our team has been hard at work bringing our vision to life. Launching a new school is no small task, but with the right people and a deep sense of purpose, we are confidently on track for a successful opening in January
Our recent launch event was a wonderful success, with a fantastic turnout and strong interest from the wider community. [Link to photos/posts]
We’ve already received an encouraging number of expressions of interest – and we’re still welcoming more families to join our founding community.
Here’s a quick update on our progress:
We’ve secured our school site at 303 Manukau Road, Epsom, and remodelling is well underway. One classroom is already fully fitted out and ready to go, with the remaining five due for completion in the coming weeks. Our playground specialists are working hard to configure the best possible options and we look forward to sharing plans with you soon. The design of the heart of the school, the chapel, is also progressing!
We’re delighted to welcome Blas Ortiz as our foundation Principal. He has a Master of Education from Monash University in Melbourne and also worked in Victoria during his time there. With over 20 years’ experience in education, a background in law, and a track record of founding and leading schools rooted in virtue, character, and community, Blas brings passion, expertise, and deep faith to Tōtara Point. Blas is relocating from Paraguay to lead our mission – a testament to his dedication and belief in our vision. We are delighted to announce that he will arrive in New Zealand by mid October.
After reviewing hundreds of applications, we’ve now signed contracts with five outstanding teachers. Each of them brings unique strengths, strong values, and a deep commitment to our Catholic ethos. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be sharing their stories – so stay tuned!
We’re excited to be the first school in New Zealand to offer the Cambridge Primary Curriculum with a Catholic ethos. This world-class programme, paired with our low-tech, high-engagement approach, offers a strong foundation for educational success – helping your child grow in knowledge, wisdom, and virtue.
If you’re looking for a school community that fosters intellectual growth, moral integrity, and a spirit of service – we’d love to hear from you.
[Submit an expression of interest here]
(You’ll receive updates on enrolment, upcoming events, and key milestones.)
We also encourage you to visit our FAQs page or get in touch with any questions – we’re here to help.
Thank you for your prayer, support and interest!
The Tōtara Point School Team
Living in Auckland, where busy city life meets moments of calm, education can feel like more than just schoolwork. It is a chance to help your child grow in meaningful ways. At Tōtara Point School, opening in late January 2026 as a co-educational primary for children aged 5 to 11, we bring a Catholic ethos that blends learning, character, health, and a sense of purpose.
Picture your child, bright-eyed yet quietly weighed down by the routine of the standard school grind, stepping into a classroom where the day unfolds like a personalised story. No more one-size-fits-all lessons, but an environment where curiosity is at the centre of learning. Suddenly “I have to” becomes “I get to.”
As a parent balancing work, family, and the hope of giving your child the best possible start, you are looking for a school that does more than teach facts. You want a place that grounds your child in values, cultivates character, and builds a sense of purpose in the ordinary moments of life. At Tōtara Point School, our very name reflects this vision. It connects us with a decisive moment in New Zealand’s Catholic history and reminds us that great things often begin in humble settings when families act with courage and faith.
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