Foundation Day is the special occasion that unites our entire Kristin community. A collective birthday, it celebrates the unique creation of our school and the enduring philosophy that continues to guide us.

 

Why is it so important to remember this day? Our origins tell a compelling story of overcoming impossible challenges with resilience and strength of spirit; inspiring today’s students to live out Kristin’s guiding values of Progress with Vision, Integrity and Love. 

 

Time-travel back to 1972, an election year – politics dominates New Zealand’s only TV channel. Split Enz perform their first live gig, and cholesterol runs high with a butter-heavy diet (margarine requires a doctor's prescription). Then comes the blow: St Anne’s, the North Shore independent school based in Takapuna, will close by year's end. 

 

A small group of parents refuse to lose access to independent education for their children and unite with a bold plan. To create a family-focused school, grounded in Christian values, that will educate the whole child. In partnership with teachers and parents, students will be valued as individuals – learning how to think, not just what to think.  

 

So the Kristin story begins: no campus, no teachers, no money – just fierce determination and a three-month deadline. With no idea how to build a school, but no time to waste, Kristin's founders leapt into action. A flurry of public and tense education board meetings followed. A temporary campus at an old abandoned Methodist Health Camp in Campbells Bay was secured. Tireless volunteer working bees ensued, transforming the site into what would soon be a functioning school.

 

 

 

How do you furnish a makeshift school with no money? In true Kristin founder fashion, obstacles like these were viewed as challenges to be outthought. In an era long before TradeMe bargains, the school’s furniture and classroom supplies were scavenged from the recently closed St Anne’s and the founder’s own homes. Against all odds, the dream was becoming reality. 

 

When Kristin optimistically opened its doors in February 1973, five teachers expected at least 100 students, but only 62 showed up. Undeterred, Kristin's founders held fast to their vision. A school ahead of its time, Kristin was sometimes viewed as ‘alternative’. Old buildings, barefoot kids, bushcraft lessons, a roaming pet goat and swimming lessons just a short walk to the beach all defined its unconventional spirit.

 

 

 

In defiance of critics who dismissed it as merely an ‘alternative’ school, Kristin consistently upheld high academic standards. As a result, the school quickly gained popularity among Auckland parents who recognised that Kristin offered something truly unique – an education that nurtured both academic and cultural growth. By the end of 1973, enrolment had doubled to 135, and the numbers continued to climb year after year.

 

Today, we celebrate Kristin's enduring success by honouring our founders and reflecting on those humble beginnings. A small group of parents, driven by a dream, achieved what many thought impossible – creating the place we know and love today.