The $17.3 million school, to cater for 460 year 1 to year 8 children by 2012, was described as the most technologically advanced school in New Zealand and the first state primary to open in the lower South Island since the 1970s.
Education Minister Anne Tolley unveiled the school plaque at the culmination of a public ceremony in the school hall, which was packed by more than 200 pupils, parents, grandparents, trustees, supporters and developers.
She acknowledged the community had waited a long time for the facility, since the Ministry of Education bought the land in Frankton in 1958.
Designers Babbage Consultants, construction company Naylor Love, landscape architects Baxter Design Group and sub-contractors were praised by all speakers for successfully blending 21st-century education practices and technology with the scenic environment.
The minister said she was delighted preschool children would experience an easy transition to Remarkables Primary School, with the early childhood centre on site.
She was pleased literacy and mathematics were among the "seven aspirational baskets of learning".
Sir Eion Edgar, founding chairman of Queenstown Resort College and former chancellor of the University of Otago, congratulated all involved for "a job extremely well done".
Sir Eion said pupils could learn from British wartime prime minister Winston Churchill's example and "stick to your beliefs".
The businessman and philanthropist urged children to enjoy themselves, have a go at everything and thank their parents and staff.
Youngsters should also clean their teeth because "a smile and fresh breath will get you a long way".
Establishment board of trustees chairman Roy Thompson recalled the steps that had been taken - from the board being handed vacant land, a budget and no manual in early 2008, to the facility now available.
Principal Debbie Dickson said the opening celebrated achievements so far and the coming together of a community of learners.
"A new chapter is just about to begin," Mrs Dickson said.
The ceremony was distinguished by a whaikorero, waiata, karakia and hongi between Ngai Tahu representatives and special guests.
Deputy prime minister and Clutha-Southland MP Bill English and Queenstown Lakes Mayor Clive Geddes were among the guests, but did not make speeches.
Pupils delighted the audience with their kapa haka and performances of the song Ekea to tapuhipuhi, the legend of Rakaihautu, and the Remarkables Kids song.
The opening day began with a morning whakawatea conducted by Ngai Tahu kaumatua Michael Skerrett, of Waihopai runanga, accompanied by representatives of seven Southern runanga, pupils and teachers.
The party entered the foyer where pupil Connor McIsaac, of Kelvin Heights, whose fifth birthday it was, unveiled a donated precious pounamu mana stone.
