The HISTORIC
Blackwater School
About Us
In the settlement of Blackwater on the way to Waiuta, a well-known mining ghost town on New Zealand’s West Coast, you’ll find the historic Blackwater School.
Blackwater School was built in 1913 to serve the small mining, sawmilling and farming Blackwater area in the upper Grey Valley.
When the mines closed in Waiuta, the population of Waiuta and Blackwater dwindled and the school closed in 1949.
After standing derelict for many years, the building was gifted to the community and The Blackwater School Restoration Group was formed to oversee the restoration and maintenance of the school building.
A slice of New Zealand history.
The schoolhouse is open to the public where you can see the original desks, inkwells, memorabilia and photographs. Donations are welcome.
Support Us
We’re dedicated to preserving a slice of New Zealand’s educational and mining history.
Please help the restoration and maintenance of our historic school by donating.