Our Whānau groups are named after 5 native trees: Rimu, Matai, Totara, Kahikatea and Kauri.

These trees were planted in 2011 by the students - the fifth tree was  added more recently in our native garden in the quiet area.

Whanau – family - is one of the culture defining features of Papanui School reflecting our goals and values.

Whanau groups are a method for:

• Building a family atmosphere within the school,
• Developing and maintaining a buddy system
• Providing support for new children/ younger children,
• Provide leadership opportunities for year 4 - 6 children,
• Creating opportunities to build connections and relationships
• Providing support for teaching staff, by creating a ‘trusted colleague’.
• Promote school values and goals
• Having fun and developing social skills