Kaitao Intermediate opened in February 1969. The Government had decided that a third intermediate school was needed in Rotorua. The school cost $282,000 and at the time had 15 classrooms and 22 teaching staff.
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| Kaitao Intermediate students on their first day of school. Source: Daily Post, Tuesday 4 February 1969, p. 1. |
Sunset Intermediate principal Mr. Graves took up the position as the new school's principal. He invited Sunset Intermediate staff to apply for jobs. One teacher who joined him was Mirth Solomon, who retired in 2004 as the school celebrated its 35th anniversary. At her retirement Solomon had been the deputy principal for 15 years.
Kaitao Intermediate did not have its official opening until eight months later on Monday 3rd November. The opening ceremony in the school's hall was attended by parents, guests and the 600 students.
Rotorua M.P. Mr. H. R. Lapwood officially opened the school. Other guests included Mayor, A. M. Linton and Mrs Linton, the chairman of the South Auckland Education Board Mr. L. A Lorrigan, and Chairman of the Arawa Trust Board Mr. M. Bennett.
At the opening ceremony head girl Davina Davy spoke and head boy Mervyn Robb unveiled a plaque commemorating the opening.
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| Rotorua Photo News, 22 November 1969, p. 57. |
The school had a special event with invited guests a few months prior when it celebrated its first Arbor Day.
The Mayor attended alongside senior forester Mr. G. Leggat, and other members of the school committee, P.T.A. and South Auckland Education Board.
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| Mervin Robb and Davina Davey place a tree in position. Source Rotorua Photo News, 30 August 1969, p. 42. |
This blog post was written by Graeme. With thanks to the Don Stafford collection, Rotorua Daily Post, and Rotorua Photo News.
