Hato Pāora College hostel closes after damning Education Review Office report

A Manawatū school hostel's licence to operate has been suspended by education authorities, because "it is contrary to the boarders' interests for the hostel to remain open".The suspension took effect at 5pm Friday for the hostel at Hato Pāora College, near Feilding.The state-integrated Catholic Māori boys' school has a roll of more than 100 students.The Education Review Office is responsible for school hostels and in a statement has confirmed the suspension."The decision to suspend the Hato Pāora College hostel licence is on the basis that it is contrary to the boarders' interests for the hostel to remain open," ERO said."The decision is based on information obtained through carrying out ERO's statutory functions in relation to school hostels."The ERO said that included information obtained during an inspection of the hostel on Wednesday and Thursday."The statutory functions as director of regulation include helping to ensure the safety of students who board at hostels, including by making decisions on the suspension of hostel licences," it said of its oversight role.A previous ERO report for the hostel in March 2025 found a clear management structure there, and through systems and processes in place for its operation."Boarder wellbeing is well monitored," that report said. "The hostel manager meets the hostel staff at the conclusion of every shift, where any matters pertaining to the wellbeing of boarders are discussed."The principal and hostel manager work closely together for the benefit of the boarders to ensure both education and wellbeing outcomes are positive. The principal is well informed about operational and student-related matters, and acts on these when appropriate."Boarding life supports students' learning. Boarders spoken to reported that hostel staff were caring and supportive."Whānau report that there is good communication between parents, caregivers, hostel and the school."The hostel was expected to be upgraded last year, the report said.ERO and Hato Pāora College have been approached for comment.