Rāpaki School stands proudly as a rare surviving example of a 19th-century building within a Ngāi Tahu settlement. Built in the 1870s, it was part of a network of village primary schools established by the Native School Department to provide education for children in Ngāi Tahu communities.

For 70 years, Rāpaki School served as a vital educational centre for children growing up at Rāpaki. However, it was more than just a school, it fostered cultural connection and provided a foundation for future generations.

Even after its closure following WW2 due to falling rolls, the building remained a hub for hapū meetings, a preschool for local children and a base for Tangata Tiaki (guardians of local marine environment).

Very few former Native School buildings around the country remain. Rāpaki School provides a tangible connection to this architecturally, socially, culturally, and historically significant site.

We look forward to welcoming you to the restored and renewed Rāpaki School.

This restoration aim was to

• Secure the building’s structural integrity for future generations.
• Enhance accessibility to cater to the diverse needs of the community.
• Modernise the space while preserving its historical and architectural significance.

This required significant repairs, maintenance, seismic strengthening, an ablutions block and moving the building to a more stable, less erosion-prone site on the same section. 

Support from community funders, whānau and local community members helped with the following

• Preserving Heritage: Few buildings like Rāpaki School remain. Your contributions ensured this cultural and historical taonga (treasure) is protected for future generations.
• Investing in the Community: The restored school will serve as a vibrant, safe, and fit-for purpose space for local schools, community groups and the people of Rāpaki.
• Supporting Sustainability: This project prioritised restoration and adaptive reuse, promoting sustainable practices in heritage conservation.
• Connecting to the Past: Rāpaki School serves as a tangible link to the rich history of the Ngāi Tahu people and Whakaraupō Lyttelton Harbour region.