HISTORY OF SACRED HEART COLLEGE

Sacred Heart College was established by the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions in 1867 on its present site in Convent Road. Four sisters, Sister Mary Saint Madeline, Sister Mary Saint John, Sister Mary of the Angels and Sister Mary Saint Anne ventured from France to New Zealand despite the cruel rumours of war and crime in New Zealand. The sisters were told they were going to a country where Maori and Pakeha were at war. Hawkes Bay was considered as one of the last outposts of war.

At Port Ahuriri the sisters were surprised to find themselves warmly greeted by the local people. Settlers made them feel welcome. The sisters were happy with the convent on the hill considering it was not an easy time to set up and consolidate a religious foundation. Sacred Heart College began teaching in 1867 because St Josephs Parish was unable to accept any Parish School new students. The new College was named " The Ladies School " with one two-storey building which is no longer standing. Sacred Heart College underwent many changes beginning with a school building and two classrooms in 1886. These still remain as part of the hostel and school hall.