The Sunderland campus was originally proposed to be built on a ‘green fields’ site at Whenuapai. Work began on Sunderland in 2001 but despite strong support from Waitakere City Council, resource consent was opposed by Auckland Regional Council. The project stalled at the Environment Court and efforts on that site are now abandoned. 

The Beginning

Publicity about Sunderland generated keen interest, confirming the need for a major independent school in West Auckland. The former Waitakere City Council complex in Waipareira Avenue became available in June 2006 and was purchased by Mr. David Levene. The Sunderland Education Trust, founded by Mr. Alex Findlay and Mr. Stephen Fleming, identified it as an ideal school site and moved rapidly to lease the property. It features quality architect designed buildings situated on nine hectares of established landscaped grounds. Because the site already has suitable zoning, refurbishments and the fit-out were completed rapidly, meaning that Sunderland enrolled its first students for the start of the 2007 school year.

Foundation Principal Mr. Kent Favel was subsequently joined by Mr. Nathan Villars as Principal of the College.

Growth and Change of Ownership

Sunderland has grown from approximately 60 students to approximately 220 students in the past three years. 2010 Enrolments look to add 50 - 60 students to the school. The current site has a capacity of 600 students before further building will be required. As of January 2010, Sunderland will be delighted to be part of the Academic Colleges Group. Click here for further details. See www.acgedu.com

Name

The name Sunderland is derived from the Sunderland flying boats which were based at the Hobsonville Airbase and which are an integral part of the history of the district.