1. (noun) relationship, kinship, sense of family connection - a relationship through shared experiences and working together which provides people with a sense of belonging. It develops as a result of kinship rights and obligations, which also serve to strengthen each member of the kin group. It also extends to others to whom one develops a close familial, friendship or reciprocal relationship.

At Tauranga Girls’ College we are committed to building the spirit of whanaungatanga. We prioritise this in all that we do. We believe whanaungatanga is shown through valuing and affirming our sense of belonging and the relationships between learners, whānau, staff and community. We encourage the development of strong relationships built on respect and care.

Two of our Head students explain it best when they talk about what whanaungatanga feels like to them. 

Teia Kahura, our Head Girl says:

 “Tauranga Girls’ College provides students with an outstanding sense of Turangawaewae, a sense of belonging. Our inclusive community provides every student with the opportunity to grow.” 

Our Deputy Head Girl of Cultural Diversity, Kahurangi Ngatai explains that

 “At Tauranga Girls College we are a whānau, a sisterhood. We strive to create a comfortable and accepting environment for all tauira in our kura to express who they are” 

and it’s this feeling, these experiences that we strive to give all learners, their whānau, staff and our wider community.

We are keen to build your understanding and experience of whanaungatanga as members of our community.