Hato Petera College was established to cater for the needs of Māori Catholic children by the Diocese of Auckland, Mill Hill Missionary Fathers and Marist Brothers. First established in 1928, the College is an integrated co-educational, decile 2, Māori Catholic Boarding and Day school for secondary school students. The proprietor of the College is the Bishop of the Diocese of Auckland. The College is governed by a Board of Trustees and the hostel is governed by Te Whanau o Hato Petera Trust.

Our way of life is underpinned by the hopes and aspirations of our our tūpuna (ancestors), whānau and Church and inspiration of our patron saints. We promote leadership and service to others. Te Reo Māori me ōnā tikanga and mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) is central to our way of life. We have a commitment to teaching the gospel values of Jesus Christ.