Otumoetai College is a state co-educational secondary school situated in the beautiful city of Tauranga, New Zealand. The school was established in February 1965 to cater to the educational needs of the western suburbs of Tauranga. It initially enrolled 206 students, ranging from years 9 to 13 (ages 12 to 18). The name Otumoetai is said to represent the tranquilly of its surroundings, with peaceful waters and an estuary that adds to its serene ambiance. Otumoetai College adheres to the New Zealand Curriculum, enabling students to pursue the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA), which is the primary secondary school qualification in New Zealand. The curriculum is thoughtfully crafted to meet the unique learning needs and interests of every student, guaranteeing their success and unlocking their full potential. By April 2023, Otumoetai College boasted an impressive enrollment of 1928 students, solidifying its position as the leading educational institution in the Bay of Plenty Region. The establishment of Otumoetai College took place in February 1965. Similar to other secondary schools in New Zealand during that time, it was built according to the Nelson Two-Storey standard plan. The design stands out with its two-storey H-shaped classroom blocks, featuring stairwells at each end and a spacious ground floor toilet and cloak area on one side. The school possesses three blocks, namely D, F, and G blocks. G block (originally D block) was fully prepared for the school’s grand opening in 1965. F block was constructed in two phases, with completion in 1967 and 1968. Similarly, D block (originally G block) underwent construction in two stages, finishing in 1969 and 1973. In the early 2000s, the school made some modifications to their original design. They cleverly converted the toilet and cloak areas into additional classrooms, and relocated the stairs outside the buildings while repurposing the original stairwells for storage. Since then, Otumoetai College has experienced numerous transformations in its physical appearance. One notable change was the establishment of the swimming pool complex in 1968, which was a collaborative effort with the Tauranga City Council. Additionally, the long-awaited library block was finally finished in September of the same year. Today, Otumoetai College has experienced significant growth and is now recognised as one of the top schools in New Zealand. Otumoetai College takes great pride in fostering a community that is both diverse and inclusive. The school embraces a diverse student body, with a substantial representation of students from different cultural backgrounds, including a considerable number of international students. This diverse setting enriches the educational journey, fostering a deep appreciation for different cultures and a global perspective among students. Otumoetai College provides an extensive selection of extracurricular activities, encompassing sports, music, arts, and cultural groups. These activities are essential for student development, offering valuable chances to cultivate leadership skills, foster teamwork, and promote personal growth. Otumoetai College boasts a rich sporting heritage, with students actively engaging in a wide range of regional and national competitions.