This is the site of the now defunct Wairau Pa School. First opened about 1874 it was situated closer to the river however with the threat of flooding it was moved back nearer the road. Around 1876 there were 22 schools in Marlborough, plus two "native" schools with a roll in excess of 900. Between 1874 and 1900 the school had 90 pupils pass through. It closed temporarily during 1943-44, and had two teachers in late 1944 but then closed again from 1945 to 1949. It finally closed with Mr. A Wharemate, Principal, in 1970.
The school and the grounds are now a Marae, and a used regularly by local Maori for meetings and gatherings, for weddings and funerals. It is a place of significant spiritual presence and must be respected for that.
If the site is being used when you visit you will need to organise an alternate time.