The school was established in 1883, and its first principal was Kate Edger, who was the first woman to earn a university degree in New Zealand.

Gibson also resigned on her marriage, in 1900, and Althea Tendall took her place for a period of five years, followed by Margaret Lorimer from 1906 to 1926.

The pupils in Nelson were able to enrol in the same university classes as those available in Christchurch, sit the same examinations and receive the same qualifications.

[4] Throughout its history, the school has enabled its students to attain high academic success as well as promoting a sense of the importance of being a part of the community.

They are named after local landmarks, mountains, rivers and plains; Dun, Maitai, Maungatapu, Waimea and Whangamoa.