The Hawke’s Bay Community College opens: 4^th  October, 1975 

Dr John Harré appointed Director by inaugural Council (1975-1985).

A new initiative in education alongside vocational training, Community Colleges’ introduced the concept of Community Education that promoted lifelong learning.  Courses were developed in response to community needs and often held where the students were based.

John Harré had a particular interest to support learning for four key groups: Māori, women, early school leavers and people in rural districts.

John Wise was appointed to establish Community Education embracing the concept that “anything is possible”.  Working with a carefully selected team to enact this philosophy, Para Matchitt was appointed to establish arts, Roly Vogt, creative writing and Peter Williams, music.