Fiordland College principal Lynlee Smith is leaving the Te Anau secondary school at the end of the 2021 school year.

Smith, who's been in the role since 2012, has resigned and plans to retire.

"I have thought long and hard about this decision, and it has not been an easy one to make, but I recognise that now is the right time for a new phase in my life," she said.

"When I first accepted the Principal position in 2012, everyone told me that I was coming to a very special place and to a school that had an excellent reputation, nationwide.

Advertisement: Sandfly Cafe

"They were right, and I will miss it greatly. I am proud of what we have achieved together including some major building projects and environmental initiatives. I wish you all the very best for the future."

Fiordland College is a co-educational Year 7–13 state secondary school, one of two in Te Anau. It has 255 pupils.

Fiordland College School Board has accepted her resignation.

Nigel Humphries, Fiordland College School Board Chair, said: "We have been extremely fortunate to have had Lynlee’s services since April 2012.

Advertisement: Don McFarlane Ray White Real Estate Te Anau

"Under her exceptional leadership, Fiordland College has truly thrived and she can be proud of her many accomplishments during her term.

"Whilst very sorry that Lynlee has decided to retire, the Board fully understands and supports her decision and wishes her well in whatever future endeavours she chooses to explore.”

The Fiordland College School Board now begins the process of attracting a high quality candidate to take on "the demanding but extremely rewarding role of Principal, to ensure that the students of Fiordland College continue to receive the best possible education".