A former New Zealander of the Year is confident about the future of a Maori Catholic boarding school.

Dr Lance O'Sullivan had moved a no-confidence motion in the chairperson of the Hato Petera College trust board.

He was concerned about the school's leadership, amid issues including a falling roll and bullying allegations.

A meeting was held yesterday which saw seven new board members voted on. Dr O'Sullivan reports it was one of the biggest turn outs from the school community in recent times.

"The discussion that was had and the outcome was just fantastic and everyone left the marai and the school in a really positive manner - really optimistic about the future of the school."

Dr O'Sullivan is confident the right set of skills are there to build on the school's legacy.

"The intention of my move two or three weeks ago was to raise the issue of [the fact that] we need a new board, we need strong governance and some strong leadership in that position."

Police confirmed last week they had received a report relating to an incident at Hato Petera college and investigations were underway to determine whether any criminal offence had occurred.

The Herald reported in April about issues at the school, including the roll falling below 100, dilapidated buildings, bullying, infighting and a lack of confidence from its owner, the Catholic Church.

Two other incidents in the last 12 months - including one where a child had been hit with a stick - had also been referred to police.

Hato Petera, whose former pupils include All Black Walter Little and the late artist Ralph Hotere, is the sole remaining Maori boarding school in Auckland and one of only six in the country.