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Arahunga School vs Carlton School

A head-to-head comparison of two schools in Manawatū-Whanganui, New Zealand, 822 m apart, using official New Zealand 2026 data. The better value in each row is highlighted.

MeasureArahunga School
Tawhero, Manawatū-Whanganui
Carlton School
Whanganui, Manawatū-Whanganui
Success Index (NZ)
–
Not rated
38
Lower 50%
Region rank–#63 of 111
National rank–#1157 of 1,559
SectorStateState
TypeSpecial SchoolContributing
Year range–Years 1–6
Students124265
Equity Index (EQI)527507
Total roll124265
Roll growth (5 yrs)90.4%6%
Leavers with NCEA Level 2+––
Leavers with NCEA Level 3+––
Leavers with University Entrance––
Māori students42.7%38.9%
Pacific students4%5.7%
International students0%0%
suburb or townTawheroWhanganui
regionManawatū-WhanganuiManawatū-Whanganui
Websitewww.arahunga.co.nzwww.carltonschool.co.nz

The verdict

  • •Carlton School does better on equity index (fewer barriers is higher) (507 vs 527).
  • •Carlton School does better on roll size (265 vs 124).
  • •Arahunga School does better on roll growth (5 years) (90.4% vs 6%).
  • •Carlton School is the larger school with 265 students compared with 124.

The Success Index (NZ) summarises published results and context from official data. It does not measure teaching quality or fit. Methodology.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Arahunga School better than Carlton School?

The two schools are very close on the Success Index (NZ). Differences in sector, size, programmes and distance from home will matter more than the score.

How far apart are Arahunga School and Carlton School?

About 822 m in a straight line, between Tawhero and Whanganui in Manawatū-Whanganui.

Which has the better Equity Index (EQI)?

Arahunga School: 527. Carlton School: 507. Ministry of Education measure of socio-economic barriers faced by students; lower means fewer barriers.

How do Arahunga School and Carlton School rank in Manawatū-Whanganui?

Arahunga School is unranked and Carlton School is 63rd of 111 among special school schools in Manawatū-Whanganui on the 2026 Success Index (NZ).