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Taught languages English, French, Japanese, Spanish, Mandarin
Typical class size 16
Strengths Academic Enrichment, Performing Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form
Introduction
Takapuna Grammar School is a co-educational state school on Auckland's North Shore, New Zealand, serving Years 9-13. Notably, it was the first state school in New Zealand to be approved to offer the IB qualification, alongside NCEA. The school motto is "Per Angusta Ad Augusta" (Through endeavour to greatness). Extensive extracurricular opportunities include sport, music, performing arts, co-curricular clubs, and service organizations. The school maintains a Houses system and offers learning support, special education, and e-learning options.
Takapuna Grammar School has 2,069 pupils, typical class sizes of 16, instruction in English.
Location
Takapuna Grammar is located on Auckland's North Shore, New Zealand.
Stages
The school serves students in Years 9 through 13, structured into Junior and Senior levels.
Type
Co-educational state school, notably the first state school in New Zealand approved to offer the IB qualification.
Additional learning support
Special Education is available.
Country affiliation
New Zealand
Fees
Application / Administration fees
- NZD 625.00 per term is listed as an administration/additional fee for international students in published fee summaries used for 2026.
Tuition fees (by length / per term and per year)
- 1 term (approximately one school term): NZD 4,625.00. - 2 terms (one semester): NZD 9,250.00. - 3 terms: NZD 13,875.00. - 4 terms (full academic year): NZD 18,500.00. The published tuition figures for 2026 fee materials and agent summaries show the same per-term breakdown above.
- Note: Tuition is presented as a per-term charge multiplied by the number of terms attended; the full-year total above is the sum for four terms. The published tuition is stated to include student ID, NZQA examination fee (where applicable) and most routine course materials.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Applications are processed through the international office and/or a registered education agent. A placement offer is issued after approval, then an invoice is raised; payment must be made to secure the placement and a receipt is issued once payment is received. Minimum placement is two terms (six months) for long-term international students. - Notice and forfeiture rules: one term's written notice is required for withdrawal in many international enrolment conditions; if written notice is not provided within the required timeframe, the next term's tuition may be forfeited. If a visa is declined prior to arrival, tuition paid will generally be refunded (subject to any stated non-refundable administration fee). These refund and notice rules are part of the enrolment/contract conditions used for international placements.
Boarding (hosted accommodation) fees and arrangements
- Takapuna Grammar School operates as a day school (no on-site boarding hostel). International students are placed in approved homestay or private homestay accommodation rather than a school boarding house. - Homestay weekly rates reported in international fee summaries and agent materials: commonly shown as NZD 380.00 per week (examples in 2026 summaries), with separate homestay placement/co-ordination fees where applicable. Homestay arrangements typically require advance payment.
Other costs and routine additional fees
- Homestay placement / homestay co-ordination fee: commonly listed (examples show amounts such as NZD 300.00–400.00 per year or a one-off placement fee). - Government / NZQA levy and NZQA examination fees (Years 11–13 where applicable): charged in addition to tuition when students sit national assessments (NZQA fees shown in comparable school schedules; NZQA fees are usually billed separately as required). Tuition summaries indicate NZQA fees for senior years are included or listed as an additional charge depending on the schedule. - Travel and medical insurance: typically required for the entire duration of study and shown as a separate cost (examples in 2026 fee materials show a travel & medical insurance charge around NZD 597.00–698.00 for 12 months). - Uniform and stationery (first-year cost, approximate): examples show a one-off approximate cost in the range NZD 450.00–700.00 (uniform + stationery charged in the first year). - General living expenses / disbursement account: many international schedules require an advance disbursement for incidental charges (example balances of NZD 2,000.00–2,400.00 are used by comparable international fee schedules). These cover trips, extracurricular charges, pocket money and other personal expenses and may be refundable or reconciled at year end. - Subject-specific or programme costs: additional consumables or subject levies (for example arts, technology, outdoor education, IB-related delivery and exam costs) can be charged separately; IB delivery/exam fees or ManageBac/IB charges may apply for IB candidates.
Refund information (key points)
- If a student's visa application is declined prior to the start date and appropriate evidence is provided, tuition fees already paid are generally refundable subject to any stated non-refundable administration fee and the school's enrolment contract conditions. - Withdrawal after arrival: the current term's fees are commonly forfeited; tuition paid for future terms may be refunded pro rata subject to the enrolment conditions and any administrative deductions. Refund requests must be submitted in writing with supporting documentation and bank details for payment. - Termination for misconduct or breach of enrolment conditions typically carries no refund for the current term and may forfeit further fees as set out in the enrolment conditions.
Fee payment options and practical payment details
- Invoices for accepted international placements are issued to the student/agent; payment is required to confirm placement. A receipt is issued once payment is received. International payments are handled by the school via the invoicing process and through the student's registered agent where applicable. - Payment is normally made into the school's bank account (telegraphic/bank transfer) as shown on invoices and on enrolment/contract paperwork; school and comparable New Zealand international programmes also accept or arrange payment via agents and may provide other options for card payment or electronic transfer on request. The enrolment/contract materials reference bank account details for refunds and invoicing.
Summary of typical 2026 international student cost components (examples shown)
- Tuition (full year, 4 terms): NZD 18,500.00 (NZD 4,625.00 per term). - Administration / application fee: NZD 625.00 per term (examples in published fee summaries). - Homestay: NZD 380.00 per week (homestay placement/co-ordination fee charged separately). - Travel & medical insurance (12 months): commonly shown around NZD 597.00–698.00. - Uniform & stationery (first year estimate): NZD 450.00–700.00. - NZQA / examination fees for Years 11–13 where applicable (charged as required).
If you are preparing a database entry, use the tuition-per-term and tuition-per-year figures above (NZD 4,625.00 per term; NZD 18,500.00 per year) and list the recurring additional items: administration/application fee (example NZD 625.00 per term), homestay weekly rate (example NZD 380.00/week), travel & medical insurance (approx. NZD 597.00–698.00 per year), uniform & stationery (first-year estimate NZD 450.00–700.00), and potential NZQA/IB exam or subject levies.
Academics
Takapuna Grammar School teaches IB (DP) for students aged 13 to 18.
Curriculum
The school offers both NCEA and the IB Diploma Programme. It was the first state school in New Zealand approved to offer the IB Diploma.
Higher Education Progression
Two qualification pathways support higher education: NCEA and the IB Diploma. The IB Diploma Programme provides University Entrance (UE). Takapuna Grammar School was the first public NZ school accredited to offer the Diploma Programme in 2013. NCEA is the official NZ secondary school qualification, recognised by employers and used for university and polytechnic selection.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school uses a wraparound approach to well-being and supports a wide range of social and emotional needs, including social pressures, mental and emotional stresses, barriers to learning, health issues, conflict resolution and family crisis. A dedicated team of pastoral care professionals works with students to navigate adolescence. The Student Services team includes the Deputy Principal, two Deans per year, a Student Services Manager, specialised counsellors, Hauora Co-ordinator, a registered nurse, a physiotherapist and an Attendance Officer. The Guidance Department provides private and confidential counselling with qualified counsellors who are members of the NZAC. The Student Wellbeing Team raises awareness of well-being issues and leads health-promoting activities such as Mental Health Awareness Week. Peer-led groups such as Resilience and Protection Team (RAPT) and the Student Wellbeing Team support anti-bullying and resilience.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Special Education support services and Learning Support programmes are available for students requiring additional assistance.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
English as a Second Language is designed as an additional English course for students with English as a second language. The small class size and differentiated curriculum enable students to reach their academic potential. Students are identified and placed in ESL where appropriate. Most students in ESL go on to study NCEA English through EAP.
Mental Wellbeing
The Guidance Department offers private and confidential counselling for all students. Students may self-refer or be referred by teachers, deans, senior management, or parents, and the choice to engage lies with the student. The qualified counsellors are members of the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) and provide a safe and confidential environment to discuss difficulties. The Student Wellbeing Team raises awareness of wellbeing issues that affect teenagers, including Mental Health Awareness Week. The Health Centre provides medical support and works with counsellors and other services to support student health and well-being.
Safeguarding
The Guidance Department offers private and confidential counselling for all students. Counsellors may refer students to outside agencies such as Marinoto Adolescent Mental Health services or CADS Youth Altered High. Parents are welcome to contact the counsellors for information about these or other agencies. The Health Centre provides health support and works with other Student Services staff to promote a safe environment. The Student Wellbeing Team raises awareness of wellbeing issues and engages in anti-bullying activities. Peer-led teams such as the Resilience and Protection Team (RAPT) address anti-bullying and mental health awareness.
Admissions
Admissions
Online enrolment is available. International students are welcomed.
Scholarships
Takapuna Grammar School encourages eligible Year 12 and 13 students to sit New Zealand Scholarship examinations. Subjects offering Scholarship provide a challenging programme with workshops; most assessments are a three-hour written examination at year's end, with some subjects using portfolios or recorded performances assessed by external examiners. Awards include: Premier Award of $10,000 per year for up to three years (top 7–12 candidates who achieve three Scholarships at Outstanding level in the same year); Outstanding Scholar Award of $5,000 per year for up to three years (top 40–60 candidates with three Scholarships including at least two Outstanding or more than three Scholarships with at least one Outstanding); Scholarship Award of $2,000 per year for up to three years (three or more Scholarships or two Scholarships at Outstanding level in the same year); Top Subject Scholar Award of $2,000 per year for up to three years (top candidate in each Scholarship subject); Single Subject Awards of $500 per subject (up to two subjects, maximum $1,000). Eligibility requires New Zealand citizenship or permanent residency, enrollment in tertiary study, maintaining a B average, and meeting criteria within one year. Nationally, NZQA data indicate about 3% of Year 13 candidates achieve Scholarship in a subject, with roughly 0.3% achieving Outstanding Scholarships.
Waitlist
Out-of-zone enrolments are determined through an annual selective ballot for students living outside the school zone. The Board confirms whether a 2026 Year 9 out-of-zone ballot will take place in June; applications open 1 July, close 27 August, and the ballot is held on 3 September for attendance in the following year. Priority under Ministry of Education guidelines goes to siblings of currently enrolled students, siblings of former students, children of former students, and children of board employees; all other applicants are considered after those with priority. Ballot results are communicated by email within a couple of days. In-zone enrolments proceed automatically once criteria are met and the student begins attendance.
FAQs
Where is Takapuna Grammar School located and what area does it serve?
Takapuna Grammar School is at 210 Lake Road, Takapuna, Auckland 0622 on Auckland's North Shore. It's a co-educational state secondary school catering to juniors and seniors (Year 9–13) with two curricula: NCEA and the IB Diploma. The campus sits on 12 hectares with views of Rangitoto Island and the Waitemata Harbour and is close to Devonport and local amenities.
What curricula does Takapuna Grammar School offer and what makes the IB Diploma pathway notable?
The school offers two world-class curricula: New Zealand's NCEA and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. It was the first state school in New Zealand to be approved to offer the IB Diploma. The IB pathway provides University Entrance and a broad range of subjects with Higher Level options.
Who is the head of Takapuna Grammar School?
The Head of School is Mary Nixon, who leads the school's executive team and oversees the educational program and student wellbeing.
What are the international student tuition fees at Takapuna Grammar School?
International tuition is NZD 4,625 per term, or NZD 18,500 for a full 4-term academic year. The fee summaries note that the tuition includes the NZQA examination fee where applicable and most routine course materials.
What other costs should international families budget for?
In addition to tuition, expect an administration/application fee of NZD 625 per term; homestay around NZD 380 per week plus placement/coordination fees; travel and medical insurance about NZD 597–698 per year; first-year uniform and stationery roughly NZD 450–700; and potential NZQA/IB exam or subject levies.
How does the admissions process work for in-zone vs out-of-zone applicants?
In-zone students enrol automatically if criteria are met. Out-of-zone applicants may enter an annual selective ballot for Year 9 (2026). Ballot dates typically include applications opening July 1, closing August 27, and the ballot on September 3, with priority given to siblings and staff children; successful applicants are notified by email within a few days.
Does Takapuna Grammar School offer scholarships, and who can apply?
The school encourages eligible Year 12 and 13 students to sit New Zealand Scholarship examinations. Awards include Premier, Outstanding Scholar, Scholarship, Top Subject Scholar, and Subject awards, with criteria such as NZ citizenship or permanent residency, project requirements, and maintaining a B average.
What curricula does Takapuna Grammar School offer, and how do they support higher education?
The school provides both NCEA and the IB Diploma, giving students two strong pathways to higher education. The IB Diploma offers University Entrance, while NCEA is the official NZ secondary qualification recognized by universities and polytechnics.
What languages are available through the IB Diploma Programme at Takapuna Grammar School?
In the IB Diploma Programme, languages include English (HL/SL), Chinese (SL), Spanish (SL), French (SL), and Japanese (SL), with Spanish Ab Initio available if a student has little prior study. Te Reo Māori is offered at Level 1 in the school's language provision.
Are there any published figures for exam results or class sizes?
The data provided lists “Exam results” and “Student-teacher ratio” as not available (null), so specific results or class-size figures aren't published here.
What is the campus like at Takapuna Grammar School?
The school sits on a 12-hectare site atop Takapuna cliffs with groomed grounds, playing fields, heritage buildings, and modern learning spaces. It offers panoramic views of Rangitoto Island and the Waitemata Harbour and is near Devonport, with an easy ferry ride to Auckland's CBD.
What facilities support sports and arts at the school?
Sports facilities include on-campus playing fields coordinated by a dedicated Sports Department. The Performing Arts program features two auditioned Dance Companies (Cactus Dance and Tempus Dance), bands and choirs, theatre, and itinerant music lessons.
What kind of facilities support clubs and student activities?
The library hosts the Chess Club, and the campus supports a wide range of clubs across languages, arts, technology, and culture, including Esports, Debate, Drama, Jazz, and more, along with regular music ensembles and theatre productions.
What kinds of clubs and activities exist beyond academics?
Takapuna Grammar offers a broad range of clubs such as Chess, Spanish, Esports, Craft, Debate, Book Club, and Photography, plus performing arts ensembles. The Duke of Edinburgh program also runs, along with Enviro Club and language/culture groups.
What leadership opportunities are available for students?
Students can participate in Tū Tangata, a leadership development program, and several formal leadership structures including a Leadership Team, Deans, and Heads of Faculty. There are also House Leaders and Whanau Form Class Leaders to support pastoral care.
What wellbeing and support services are available to students?
The school follows a wraparound wellbeing approach with a dedicated Student Services team, including deputes, deans, counsellors (NZAC members), a Health Centre with a registered nurse, and specialized staff like a Hauora coordinator and a physiotherapist. The Student Wellbeing Team leads anti-bullying and mental-health awareness activities.
How does Takapuna Grammar School support students with English as an additional language?
ESOL support is available with small class sizes and a differentiated curriculum. ESOL students are typically guided toward English through EAP, progressing into NCEA English as appropriate.
How is safeguarding and mental health addressed at the school?
Private and confidential counselling is available through the Guidance Department, with referrals to outside agencies if needed. The Health Centre works with counsellors and the Student Wellbeing Team to promote a safe environment and address mental health and safeguarding concerns.
Is there on-site boarding at Takapuna Grammar School?
No, Takapuna Grammar is a day school. International students are accommodated through approved homestay or private homestay arrangements with host families.
What should families know about the school uniform?
There is a formal school uniform, which can be purchased from the uniform shop. A uniform pass can be issued if a student cannot wear the correct uniform, and non-compliance without a valid pass can result in uniform detention.
