Welcome to our International Students

It is important to us at Maraetai Beach School to recognise and learn about different cultures and countries. Our interactions with students who visit us are supported by our own adventures.

Maraetai Beach School is a full primary (Years 1 - 8) situated in a coastal community on the south east coast of Auckland. The Pohutukawa Coast encompasses beautiful beaches and coastal walkways and cycle paths, Omana Regional Park, showcasing a working farm and an array of coastal flora and fauna.

Close by are the International Formosa Golf Course and the Pine Harbour Marina complex that offers daily ferry services to Auckland City and Waiheke Island, Beachlands shops, cafes and restaurants, and the Whitford Forest. A 15 minute drive takes you to Botany Shopping Centre and Howick, with a selection of shopping, movies, swimming pools, etc.

We are a learning community that provides an exciting and challenging curriculum designed to extend all children’s horizons in a secure, safe and learner focused environment. We have very strong parent and community involvement and highly value these partnerships.

Our students are a very special group: friendly, confident and strongly motivated to learn. We welcome the rich contribution international students bring to our school community and ensure they receive the support required to participate in a rewarding experience.

We foster strong relationships with agents, parents and students to ensure robust pastoral care is undertaken, including students academic progress through the support of our ELL programme. It is important to us at Maraetai Beach School to recognise and learn about different cultures and countries. Our interactions with students who visit us are supported by our own adventures.

Ms Tristan Gilchrist - International Student Director

Tristan has been involved with Maraetai Beach School for over 16 years as both a parent and an employee. Following up on the potential to welcome International Students to our school, she has been integral in developing our programme since it’s instigation in 2016.

Having lived overseas herself with children attending an International School, she is aware of some of the needs visiting students may encounter. With a background in Human Resources, alongside over 10 years in the Education sector, she enjoys being a part of providing an exciting, challenging experience for our students.

Mrs Rebekah Gundesen - ELL Teacher

Rebekah has had the privilege over the last 6 years to work with and plan for our English Language Learners and our International Students who visit from around the world. As both a teacher and a parent, she has enjoyed seeing out students value the opportunity to build new friendships, learn about other cultures and take on leadership opportunities.

She has an integrated approach to ensure our International Students have a well rounded experience and a true insight of education in New Zealand. Students thrive in our classroom environments where they are able to excel in the curriculum, where mathematices, science and literacy sit alongside our unique NZ culture. Our versatile International Programme includes swimming, visiting local farms, bush and beach walks, sport competitions, visual art, experiments, Maori cultural activities, baking and so much more! Rebekah looks forward to working with new students who wish to join our school while they’re studying abroad.

Our Vision and Programme

The school’s vision, Our Way - People, Potential, Planet sets the strategic direction for our school. This vision is underpinned by the four values of To Tatou Ara: Manawaroa (Resilience), Whakaute (Respect), Rawe (Excellence), and Ngakau Tapatahi (Integrity).

Maraetai Beach School warmly welcomes enrolments and visits of International students. Our student overview is a great place to find out what is involved.

For further information please contact Tristan Gilchrist. Or if you’re ready to come and see us, please just complete an enrolement and send it through!