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Maheno School vs Totara School

A head-to-head comparison of two full primary schools in Otago, New Zealand, 7.2 km apart, using official New Zealand 2026 data. The better value in each row is highlighted.

MeasureMaheno School
Maheno, Otago
Totara School
Alma, Otago
Success Index (NZ)
60
Top 50%
44
Lower 50%
Region rank#41 of 85–
National rank#620 of 1,559–
SectorStateState
TypeFull PrimaryFull Primary
Year rangeYears 1–8Years 1–8
Students9519
Equity Index (EQI)430450
Total roll9519
Roll growth (5 yrs)50.9%-64.9%
Leavers with NCEA Level 2+––
Leavers with NCEA Level 3+––
Leavers with University Entrance––
Māori students11.6%10.5%
Pacific students5.3%0%
International students0%0%
suburb or townMahenoAlma
regionOtagoOtago
Websitewww.maheno.school.nz/www.totara.school.nz

The verdict

  • •Maheno School scores higher on the Success Index (NZ) (60.3 vs 44.2).
  • •Maheno School does better on equity index (fewer barriers is higher) (430 vs 450).
  • •Maheno School does better on roll size (95 vs 19).
  • •Maheno School does better on roll growth (5 years) (50.9% vs -64.9%).
  • •Maheno School is the larger school with 95 students compared with 19.

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 Maheno School better than Totara School?

On the Success Index (NZ), Maheno School ranks higher (60.3 vs 44.2 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 Maheno School and Totara School?

About 7.2 km in a straight line, between Maheno and Alma in Otago.

Which has the better Equity Index (EQI)?

Maheno School: 430. Totara School: 450. Ministry of Education measure of socio-economic barriers faced by students; lower means fewer barriers.

How do Maheno School and Totara School rank in Otago?

Maheno School is 41st of 85 and Totara School is unranked among full primary schools in Otago on the 2026 Success Index (NZ).