In 1905 the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand decided to purchase a school established in Turakina by the Reverend John Ross.  Their vision was to train and educate the future mothers of the maori race in a christian and academic education.

The Right Hon. Richard John Seddon opened the old manse buildings in Turakina as "Turakina Maori Girls College" on 13 April 1905 for 17 pupils.  Mr AG Hamilton served as foundation principal, his wife as matron, and 3 daughters as assistant staff.

As the school roll increased, the old manse couldn't accomodate all of the pupils, or the academic requirements of the students.  So, in 1927 His Excellency Governor-General Sir Charles Fergusson laid the foundation stone for the new buildings in Marton. In 1928 the Rev. James Aitken, moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, opened the new Turakina Maori Girls College buildings in Marton.

The Rev JG Laughton, Moderator and Convenor of Maori Missions, laid the foundation stone for the school chapel in 1943.This beautiful chapel was adorned with tukutuku panels, kowhaiwhai and stained glass windows.

Since 1957 The Friends of Turakina Maori Girls College Assn. founded by Miss Pat Mc Chesney has assisted the school providing many of the amenities such as the classrooms, dining rooms and old assembly hall.  The Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, Department of Education and a number of Trusts have helped with bursaries and scholarships for pupils.