Karetu School vs Paihia School
A head-to-head comparison of two full primary schools in Northland, New Zealand, 11 km apart, using official New Zealand 2026 data. The better value in each row is highlighted.
Karetu School
Kawakawa · State full primary · Years 1–8
81 students
Paihia School
Paihia · State full primary · Years 1–8
156 students
| Measure | Karetu School Kawakawa, Northland | Paihia School Paihia, Northland |
|---|---|---|
| Success Index (NZ) | 28 Lower 50% | 30 Lower 50% |
| Region rank | #48 of 72 | #46 of 72 |
| National rank | #1363 of 1,559 | #1331 of 1,559 |
| Sector | State | State |
| Type | Full Primary | Full Primary |
| Year range | Years 1–8 | Years 1–8 |
| Students | 81 | 156 |
| Equity Index (EQI) | 497 | 497 |
| Total roll | 81 | 156 |
| Roll growth (5 yrs) | -20.9% | -24.8% |
| Leavers with NCEA Level 2+ | – | – |
| Leavers with NCEA Level 3+ | – | – |
| Leavers with University Entrance | – | – |
| Māori students | 69.1% | 44.9% |
| Pacific students | 6.2% | 12.8% |
| International students | 0% | 0% |
| suburb or town | Kawakawa | Paihia |
| region | Northland | Northland |
| Website | www.schoolground.co.nz/karetu | paihia.school.nz/ |
The verdict
- •Paihia School scores higher on the Success Index (NZ) (29.8 vs 28.3).
- •Paihia School does better on roll size (156 vs 81).
- •Karetu School does better on roll growth (5 years) (-20.9% vs -24.8%).
- •Paihia School is the larger school with 156 students compared with 81.
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 Karetu School better than Paihia School?
On the Success Index (NZ), Paihia School ranks higher (29.8 vs 28.3 out of 100). The index is built from published results and context data, not from teaching quality or fit, so visit both schools before deciding.
How far apart are Karetu School and Paihia School?
About 11 km in a straight line, between Kawakawa and Paihia in Northland.
Which has the better Equity Index (EQI)?
Karetu School: 497. Paihia School: 497. Ministry of Education measure of socio-economic barriers faced by students; lower means fewer barriers.
How do Karetu School and Paihia School rank in Northland?
Karetu School is 48th of 72 and Paihia School is 46th of 72 among full primary schools in Northland on the 2026 Success Index (NZ).