The fire broke out on Sunday afternoon. Photo: SUPPLIED

Two young people have been charged with arson over the large fire at Taupō's biggest school.

Crews contained the blaze at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College that broke out on Sunday afternoon.

Police closed surrounding roads for approximately four hours while Fire and Emergency New Zealand worked to contain the blaze at the school on Spa Road.

"The block of classrooms was destroyed, along with everything inside," Detective Sergeant Allan Humphries said.

"We acknowledge this will be devastating for college teachers, students and families."

He said the two youths were due to appear in Taupō Youth Court this week.

The college will remain closed until Wednesday.

Principal Ben Claxton said with the substantial damage and an entire block of classrooms destroyed, the school would only reopen when a full assessment had been completed and the site was made safe.

"The wellbeing of our students and staff is our absolute priority. Our focus is on ensuring everyone is supported and on minimising disruption to our school community.

"We are working closely with the Ministry of Education and emergency services as we assess the damage and plan our next steps.

"We understand this will be unsettling for families, and we are grateful for the understanding, support and care being shown across our community. We will continue to keep students, staff and families informed as more information becomes available."

Local MP Louise Upston said the school and the Ministry of Education would minimise the disruption to students.

The ministry will meet with school staff today to assess the damage.

Board chairperson Michelle Barnett said the building houses several classrooms.

Fire and Emergency NZ said scene guards have been in place overnight and crews will be returning during daylight hours.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

Copyright © 2026, Radio New Zealand

Fire and Emergency says crews have managed to contain a fire at a Taupo-nui-a-Tia College to just one structure.

for ad-free news and current affairs