We encourage all students to explore new activities - and to 'have a go' at those they are interested in, whether their aim is to keep fit, learn new skills, make new friends, or all three.
Employers are also interested in activities beyond the classroom, as they contribute to the development of a well-rounded character. The skills students learn in their extra-curricular activities can be developed further in their adult life as they make constructive use of their leisure time.
Mairheau High School offers a wide selection of sport and cultural activities. Teachers, parents and others in our community give their time freely to help students develop skills. Many students have competed with distinction at national regional and local levels.

Sports

Most inter-school competitions are held on Wednesday afternoons or Saturdays. Team membership requires regular attendance at practices held during lunchtimes or after school.
The school has annual inter-school fixtures with a range of other secondary schools.

Te Mairehau Kapa Haka

Parents and elders in our community help and support Mr Daniel Hapuku and the Te Mairehau Maori Culture Group, which represents our school on formal occasions. The first formal ceremony for all our Year 9 students is the powhiri, a welcome given by the school to its new family members.

Mairehau Multiculture Group

This group aims to learn and experience Pacific Island music, dance, language and culture. The group provides support for our Pacific Island students and encourages regular performances.

Student Exchanges

We encourage students to apply for student exchanges. Rotary sponsor a 'twin' scheme with Australia. French-speaking students from Tahiti often come in Term 2 and return with a New Zealander for the July holidays. AFS sponsor exchanges for a year in many countries. Other organisations offer similar schemes.

Public Speaking/Drama

Public speaking competitions are held within English classes and the finals are performed in front of family and friends with an outside judge. Groups of interested students have entered their drama performances in the Shelagh Winn Shakespeare Festival. Each year we have a major production which showcases the musical and dramatic talents of students from Years 9 to 13.