Mahana School is a rural full primary school for Years 1 to 8, in the Moutere Hills near Upper Moutere, Nelson. The name means warmth, and the school says visitors feel it when they come in. It has three classrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and library, and four full-time registered teachers, including the principal. A teacher aide works with individuals and small groups, and a specialist teacher in structured literacy supports children who need reading help. Music tuition is available one to one during the school day. The school is part of the Motueka Kahui Ako.
Each Monday at 9am there is a whole-school welcome, and families are welcome to attend. The school holds two assemblies a term, and a Whānau Learning Celebration close to Armistice Day. The Mahana School Fiesta, run by a parent association, is held near the start of March most years. The school has a Ministry-funded bus for eligible whānau, and it sends a newsletter every second week. Enrolment is through the school's enrol page, and prospective parents are welcome to visit.