The site currently occupied by Mount Maunganui College was formerly a working farm. Our kaumatua, Kihi Ngatai, remember working here as a farmhand during the hay-baling season. This college was formally established in 1957.

Our local iwi (tribe) is Ngaiterangi and the descendants of Ngai Tukairangi and Ngati Kuku hapu (sub-tribe) are affiliated to our nearest marae, Whareroa.

Our crest is a journey from the base to the summit. It symbolises wisdom (the golden crown), freedom (the eagle), righteousness (the helmet), a maritime setting (the seahorse) and success (the laurel leaves). From the theme came the College motto... Sapentia Carior Auro