Local iwi, dignitaries and invited guests gathered in Papamoa on Friday to celebrate the official opening of the Western Bay's newest college.
The official opening of Papamoa College was celebrated with speeches from Education Minister Anne Tolley and a student representative.
It was a special day for year 7 student Shay Ridley, who
cut the ribbon with Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby, Mrs Tolley and Bay of Plenty MP Tony Ryall. Shay was the first student to enrol and principal Steve Lindsey said this was a nice way to recognise that.
Mr Lindsey said that after a term of operating, he was looking forward to the future at Papamoa College.
"It's nice to have the official opening completed and now we can put behind us the business side of things and get right into the operational side of the school."
Those in attendance included Nga Potiki iwi representatives, Board of Trustees, Mrs Tolley, Mr Ryall, Mr Crosby, representatives from Hawkins Construction and ASC Architects, as well as parents, staff and students.
The $28 million school has a roll of about 400 students in Years 7-9. It will eventually have the capacity for 1200 Year 7-13 students.
Down the road, Golden Sands Primary School held its official opening on Friday.
