[citation needed] HNHS also hosted the national orienteering secondary school girls champions in 2008.

Like many New Zealand state secondary schools of the era, it was built to the "S68" standard plan, with single-storey classroom blocks of masonry construction, low-pitched roofs and internal open courtyards.

[5] In September 2023 the school sought additional funding for the build as a result of costs increases due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wilton had previously been a deputy principal and a science and chemistry teacher, and was a notable musician in the 2000s as the drummer for the band Goldenhorse.

Throughout the year, the four houses compete in a variety of sporting, cultural and academic events.