Headmaster’s Pen
THE START TO 2022 HAS BEEN CHARACTERISED BY FURTHER UNCERTAINTY AND CHANGE. AS A SCHOOL COMMUNITY WE WERE GRATEFUL TO BE ABLE TO CONCLUDE THE 2021 ACADEMIC YEAR BY HOLDING THE MAJORITY OF OUR END OF YEAR FORMALITIES, CELEBRATIONS AND RITES OF PASSAGE, ALBEIT IN MODIFIED FORMATS. IT WAS WITH A SENSE OF OPTIMISM WE COMMENCED THIS YEAR, HOPEFUL THAT THE RETURN OF AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE DAILY OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT IN PERSON, ACCOMPANIED BY A STABLE SCHOOL SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES, WOULD EVENTUATE. UNFORTUNATELY, THIS HAS NOT BEEN THE CASE.
It would be easy to reflect on the first term of 2022 with a mindset of what could have been. We could have had a poowhiri for new students and staff if not for the restriction on gathering sizes. We could have had a full school assembly in the Chapel of Christ the King (prior to Week 11) if not for the red traffic light setting constraints. We could have had scheduled annual House events, such as the swimming, athletics and haka competitions, deliberately positioned throughout the term, if not for a Covid-19 protection framework. We could have.
In noting the above however, St Paul’s Collegiate School has never been defined by a ‘could have’ mentality. When on 12 February 1959, Headmaster Mr Walter Ford opened St Paul’s, a seven-classroom school for 60 students on our current Hamilton site, it was with a steadfast belief that given the astute balance of both academic rigour and an emphasis on holistically educating young people for a promising future, then the opportunity to turn possibilities into realities was absolutely attainable. Our mission continues in this vein today.
The reality for our staff and students over Term 1 has been the existence of an environment that has constantly championed robust and engaging learning experiences. The momentum of high quality teaching and learning has been both maintained and progressed. Our staff have witnessed the earnestness of students logging into online lessons via the School’s digital learning platform when required to isolate at home and when not personally experiencing the symptoms or effects of Covid-19. Furthermore, summer sporting activities have seen the rightful mix of participation and performance pathways activated throughout the term, including wonderful full school outdoor events, namely the House Swimming and Athletics Championships respectively, being held in the last fortnight of the term. Such events continue to highlight critical aspects of our School community — connection, healthy competition, the pursuit of personal excellence and a good dose of fun.
With particular reference to the pursuit or personal excellence, I wish to offer the School’s congratulations to all students who sat and attained qualifications in both NZQA and Cambridge International Examinations in 2021. The academic results achieved by not only last year’s school leavers, but also the then Year 11 and 12 students, are testament to students’ diligence, parental support and staff expertise.
Similarly, it has been a pleasure to recognise outstanding extracurricular successes this term, including multiple national champions being crowned across various sporting codes, notably rowing. The following pages of this publication, along with articles across other School platforms, record and celebrate these achievements realised in spite of often challenging circumstances.
Recently we asked whaanau, as part of our current Junior School Curriculum Review, what aspirations and goals they have for their tamariki. Responses included to be happy, resilient, responsible, independent thinkers, grounded, and positive contributors, to name but a few. While the start of 2022 has been challenging, our young people have been provided opportunities to experience and further develop these character traits. As we look towards the middle terms of the School year many more possibilities will be realised. Importantly, ample opportunities will be available for whaanau and the wider school community to once again connect back on both our campuses, via a myriad of events which will enhance the growth of our young women and men, alongside the further cultivation of wider community spirit and contribution. Thank you for joining us on the ride.
Issue 103
June 2022
Contributors:
Andrea Douglas
Melissa Good
Nerroly Hay
Morgan Mackenzie
Nicola Martin
Ginny Semmens
Photographers:
Mark Hamilton
Andrew Constable
Greg Campbell
Collegians (INC): 07 957 8805 collegians@stpauls.school.nz
Marketing and Development Office 07 957 8898
St Paul’s Collegiate School Private Bag 3069 Waikato Mail Centre Hamilton 3240 New Zealand
Advertising:
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Cover photo:
Ben Skeen
— Headmaster Ben Skeen
Introducing Head Boy Samuel Peoples
First Maaori Head Girl of St Paul’s
As the first Maaori Head Girl of St Paul’s Collegiate School, the highly accomplished academic Leah Weck is proud to share her newly appointed position with the community.
As a proud descendant of Tainui and Ngaati Porou, Leah reflects on the significant people in her life who have influenced her to strive for Head Girl.
“It is testament to the incredible whaanau I have been surrounded by growing up that has led me to become
Ever since his 44-hour solo expedition at Tihoi Venture School in 2019, Samuel Peoples had aspirations of becoming Head Boy during his final year at St Paul’s Collegiate School. Fast forward three years, Samuel’s first-class leadership successfully landed him this role.
On Wednesday 9 February during the Headmaster’s Assembly, the 2022 Head Prefects were announced. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, students were live-streaming the results in their respective houses. Anxiously waiting in anticipation, the slideshow accidentally skipped ahead when Samuel caught a glimpse of his face, despite not hearing his name announced.
“I saw my photo up on the big screen and couldn’t help but think, was that a mistake? But Hamilton House immediately roared with excitement; I was completely shocked,” says Samuel.
the first-ever Maaori Head Girl of St Paul’s. I am proud of my Maaori heritage and plan to use my platform as a means of representing the 101 Maaori students within the school.”
Leah began St Paul’s as a Year 11 boarder in 2020 when her brother Caleb Weck (Clark 20162020) held the role of Deputy Head Boy. Seeing her brother as a high-ranking leader compelled Leah to set similar goals.
Coming as a surprise to no one but herself, the humble scholar says her friends and whaanau
Considered a role model in all aspects of the school, Samuel is accomplished across academics, sporting, culture and service programmes. Academically, Samuel is exceptionally competent, having gained NCEA Level 1 with Excellence and Level 2 with Merit. In his Level 1 studies, Samuel was awarded a Scholars’ tie with a GPA of 87% and acknowledged as a Scholastic Centurion in Sports Science.
An impressive swimmer, Samuel has seen many podium finishes during his years at St Paul’s as a member of the elite swim team. At the end of Year 12, Samuel decided to take up rowing and has recently undertaken his first Aon Maadi Cup as a novice rower where he came fifth in the boys’ U18 novice double sculls A Final with teammate Charles Sanft.
Samuel has been a member of the school choir for the past four years, and last year he joined the cast of the production Jesus Christ Superstar to further round
hoped she would land the prestigious Head Girl position. Having worked closely alongside her brother and previous Head Girls, Leah is well aware of the responsibilities but is ready to share her leadership skills with other students.
“It’s important for me to use this opportunity and be a positive influence within the school, in particular to females and other Maaori students. It’s my time to support the school in the best way I can.”
A natural in all areas of schooling life, Leah excels across sporting, cultural, academic, and service programmes. Throughout her medal-winning 2020/2021 season, Leah co-captained the St Paul’s Rowing Club and has played for the Premiere Reserves Netball team for two seasons. She has been a key member of the kapa haka group and has fiercely led Clark House through winning house haka competitions. Leah’s academic
out his skillset in the cultural arena.
As part of the school’s service programmes, Samuel has been involved in the Over the Fence Ministry and volunteered to work alongside the St Joan’s Resthome and Hospital residents, providing ukulele lessons and art classes. Samuel also attended the World Vision Youth Conference in 2021. In recognition of his significant contribution to service, he was awarded a school service tie in 2021.
During his opening address to the school, Samuel assured the St Paul’s community he will lead with integrity and is prepared to roll up his sleeves throughout the year.
Looking ahead to tertiary studies, Samuel is keeping his plans open for next year by undertaking all three sciences but will likely end up in the field of engineering.
abilities gained her NCEA Level 1 and Level 2 certificates endorsed with Excellence. After her Level 1 studies, she was awarded a Scholars’ tie with a GPA of 94% and was acknowledged as a Scholastic Centurion in Level 1 Art Design/Photography and IGCSE Physics. Leah has actively participated in the Over the Fence Ministry and has helped to fundraise money towards Flame Cambodia through her involvement in the annual charity relay.
Looking forward to her bright future, Leah intends on gaining a rowing scholarship to an American university where she will study medicine. This year she is taking A Level Mathematics, English, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics to support her entry.
Keen to leave a legacy behind as the first Maaori Head Girl, Leah’s remarkable journey is one to watch unfold. He toki koe, Leah!
Head Girl Leah Weck
Head Boy Samuel Peoples
Give with a living hand
JOHN OLIVER IS A ST PAUL’S COLLEGIATE SCHOOL FELLOW, PAST PARENT, GRANDPARENT, PHILANTHROPIST AND NOW QUEENS HONOURS RECIPIENT FOR HIS SERVICES TO PHILANTHROPHY.
From his instrumental roles in building heathcare facilities to his foresight on farming technology, John has always been a catalyst for change in the community. John recalls his creative mind caused him grief in his Latin classes at Southwell School and remembers Headmaster HG Sergel declaring, “I am sick of trying to teach you Latin, Oliver, come with me”. Then being led out to the headmaster’s vegetable garden where he learnt that in horticulture, Latin is used to name plants. This ignited a lifelong passion for agriculture, and he finally found a practical reason for learning Latin!
After finishing Form 2 (Year 8) at Southwell, John followed in his father’s footsteps and attended Whanganui Collegiate School. John says, “Collegiate was good for me, it taught me to think outside the box and be visionary, but I was a hopeless scholar!” Once John graduated high school, he returned to the family farm and worked for the only employer he has ever had, his father.
The Oliver connection with St Paul’s first began 40 years ago when the eldest son, Mark (Williams 1975-1979) enrolled at St Paul’s as a boarder in 1975. He was soon followed by Todd (Williams 1977-1979), William
(Williams 1980-1984), and then Duncan (Williams 1984-1987). Sarah Oliver, John’s wife, had initially homeschooled the children and they discussed at great length which boarding school they would send their boys. St Paul’s was the obvious choice due to its close location to their family farm in Otorohanga. John and Sarah immersed themselves as parents supporting the school and have since played an active and pivotal role in the long-term development of St Paul’s.
During the 1970s when the school was still relatively new, St Paul’s was desperate for new buildings. Chairman of
the school, John Mortimer, approached John Oliver about a new venture asset he was wanting to progress, purchasing one thousand acres of land in Honikiwi, with the aim to plant it into forestry. John bought shares in the business and was later asked to join the board of trustees for the forestry development. Then, 30 years later, after being harvested and replanted, twice it was sold. This great foresight proved a huge fundraising success for St Paul’s and the much-needed buildings were built.
During his years as a current parent of St Paul’s, John noticed the school was full of farming families, yet agribusiness was not part of the curriculum. Becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of agriculture opportunities within education, sparked the perfect idea.
I knew there had to be a better way to introduce farming students to academics, enabling them to further develop their family land.
John
made an appointment to see then St Paul’s Headmaster, Grant Lander, to discuss the idea
Grant Lander and John Oliver (right)
John Oliver inducted as a St Paul’s Fellow
of teaching agriculture in the school curriculum.
“Do you think we can teach agribusiness as a subject Grant? If you have a classroom available, I will volunteer our land for off site visits,” said John.
Grant’s eyes rolled and John left his office feeling unsure of what he had suggested. A few days later John received a phone call from Grant, “I think you are onto something here!”.
As John recalls, Grant took the idea and ran with it.
Once Grant sees the big picture his drive and determination is unstoppable, his mana and personability make things happen.
A new building was planned on the edge of the school’s cricket field which would be devoted to teaching the agribusiness curriculum. John and Sarah were asked if they would support the build. After a lengthy discussion, John donated his first-ever large
donation of $100,000. Grant asked John if he would like naming rights to the building, his reply, “let’s find others who can also support this initiative.”
With the support of well-known Waikato based agricultural innovators, Gallagher, the Gallagher Centre of Excellence was built and opened in 2016. Since then, agribusiness is now taught in over 100 schools across New Zealand. There are currently 3057 students learning agribusiness as part of the NCEA curriculum and the programme continues to gain strong interest with the primary sector. These industries are starting to see young graduates from the programme entering the workforce. “It is providing the rural sector with well-qualified and capable young people.”
In 2019, John was shown the plans for the new Learning Hub (working title) to be built at St Paul’s. When Grant asked for John’s support a second time around, he didn’t hesitate and also agreed to the naming rights opportunity. In 2021, the Lander Centre was opened, and John and Sarah chose to use their opportunity for naming rights to credit Grant and Judith Lander
for the service and commitment they gave St Paul’s over more than a decade.
Reflecting on the day he was asked to clean his nails and wash his hands for lunch as the Headmaster of Southwell, HG Sergel, would be joining them. He now understands the importance of this day. Five years after finishing Southwell, John discovered his grandmother had financed the school during the hard times of the great depression. Taken aback by learning of her generosity, John
wanted to honour her legacy and began his own philanthropic journey.
After contemplating how he can help others, John has become a man on a mission, his motto is to give with a living hand and says to his friends “try it, you’ll like it”. John has a range of projects he supports but says education and healthcare are the two best places to put your money. St Paul’s has been very fortunate to benefit from John and Sarah’s living legacy.
Farm House donated to Tihoi from John and Sarah Oliver
From left: Grant Lander, Judith Lander, Anthony Lander, John Oliver
Engineering a path to success
IF YOU ASK TIAKI RHODES (WILLIAMS 2017-2020) TO SUM UP HIS TIME AT ST PAUL’S COLLEGIATE SCHOOL WITH ONE WORD, HE WILL TELL YOU IT WAS, “TRANSFORMATIONAL”.
As the recipient of a Te Amorangi Future Leaders Scholarship in 2017, Tiaki says his time at the school opened doors for him that he never would have considered possible.
The 20-year-old is now in his second year studying a Bachelor of Engineering at Canterbury University and is the first member of his family to ever attend tertiary education.
“Studying engineering at University is not somewhere I ever thought I would end up and if it wasn’t for my time at St Paul’s, I probably wouldn’t have pursued this as my future,” says Tiaki.
Originally from Kaeo in Northland, Tiaki had been studying at Kerikeri High School, but he says by the end of Year 10 his parents Haylee and Darcy wanted to broaden his horizons and his teachers recognised his talents, both academically and sporting.
“My family are not that financially well off so attending St Paul’s would never have been an option for me without the scholarship,” says Tiaki.
In 2017 Tiaki and his family met with then St Paul’s Headmaster Grant Lander who encouraged Tiaki to apply for
the Te Amorangi Scholarship, a programme that Mr Lander himself had established in 2011.
“I remember the day I first met Mr Lander at my school interview. Although he is a big intimidating man to some, I saw a man with pride and mana. I saw a man who is passionate about what he does and always gives 100 percent.”
Tiaki was inspired.
I made a promise to myself and my family the day I met Mr Lander that if I was given the opportunity to attend St Paul’s I would make the most of it and make Mr Lander feel like he made the right decision in accepting me.
his sponsor every term and updating them on his progress.
“I finally got to meet my sponsors in Year 13 which was awesome to let them know how much their support had meant for me.”
While Tiaki flourished at St Paul’s, including being made Head of Williams House and a school prefect in Year 13, his time was not without its challenges.
An ATV accident on the family farm in Northland at the end of Year 11 saw Tiaki’s skull crushed.
“It was a miracle I survived. My face was shattered. They had to
reconstruct my cheekbone with titanium plates and screws, and my eye socket and nose were also broken. I was in hospital for two weeks but the recovery was quite a bit longer,” says Tiaki.
When he returned to school the catering team helped with a special no chew diet for him and he says his friends became experts at making him smoothies. It’s an example of the supportive and caring environment the school fosters, says Tiaki.
When he broke his jaw playing rugby in Year 13, Tiaki says they were all smoothie experts.
Each recipient of the Te Amorangi Scholarship is matched with a sponsor for the duration of their study. Tiaki remembers writing letters to
Game face on
Tiaki outside the University of Canterbury
St Paul’s creates a community. I enjoyed how close and supportive everyone is and the opportunities that the school offers. There are so many opportunities and I feel proud that I grabbed every one of them that was put in front of me.
Tiaki says he was drawn to engineering after enjoying calculus at St Paul’s and completing some engineering studies. While he was not always the top of his class in maths and science, Tiaki says he worked hard.
“Engineering is something I want to pursue. I really enjoy it and my dad always said if you can find a job that you love doing you won’t have to work a day in your
life. My mum and my dad are some of my greatest role models so that’s what I want in my life,” says Tiaki.
In Year 13, St Paul’s careers advisor helped Tiaki identify scholarships at Canterbury University to aid his study and Tiaki went on the receive the Keystone Scholarship which provides $5000 towards his degree per year.
“That has been a huge help for me and again shows the opportunities and assistance that are there if you know where to look and have a bit of help along the way.”
The school’s support did not end there, however.
When Mr Lander retired as Headmaster, Tiaki was invited as a surprise guest to speak at his farewell. Following that event, Tiaki was contacted by a former Collegian of Sargood House, Sam Patterson, who works for Schick Civil Construction.
“Sam offered me work experience over the summer holidays which has given me a really good insight into
engineering and been extremely helpful for saving money to help pay for my living expenses while I am studying,” says Tiaki.
When he finishes studying, Tiaki says he would like to focus on mechanical or civil engineering and in the future, he wants to be able to encourage other young people, just as he has experienced.
“Once I become financially stable, I would like to do what someone did for me. To sponsor a student like me who hasn’t come from much, to show them the opportunities that are available to them and help them achieve their dreams,” says Tiaki.
Challenge Shield Colts Premier Winners
Tiaki with his family
23 year tenure for Neil Muirhead
THERE ARE NOT MANY PEOPLE WHO CAN MANAGE 85 TEENAGE BOYS IN A BOARDING SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT 24 HOURS A DAY, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK FOR 15 YEARS, BUT NEIL MUIRHEAD IS ONE OF THOSE RARE PEOPLE.
The former Housemaster of Williams House, Clark House and School House, resigned at the end of 2021, but his 23 years teaching at St Paul’s Collegiate School, 15 of those involved with boarding, helped shape the formative years of hundreds of students.
“I have so many fond memories of my time at St Paul’s. It’s often the little things - a card or an email from former students.
Little bits and pieces that tell you, okay, I played a positive role there,” says Neil.
Neil is teaching in a part time capacity at Rangitoto College in Auckland, and says he stepped down from St Paul’s to take on a role that would allow him more family time.
Neil joined St Paul’s in 1999, after initially immigrating from South Africa to New Zealand in November 1994. He had completed a reconnaissance trip to New Zealand in 1993, and visited St Paul’s, including meeting the then Housemaster of Williams House.
Immigrating nearly two years later, Neil initially taught in Te Puke and later Auckland, but when a role finally came up at St Paul’s in 1999, he jumped at the opportunity.
He was initially employed at St Paul’s as a mathematics teacher and taught statistics and calculus during his time, including a year as acting Co-Head of Department. Neil also took on the role of Deputy Housemaster of Clark House before becoming Housemaster of Williams House. He had two further spells as Deputy Housemaster of Clark House before taking on the role of Clark Housemaster in 2015.
During his tenure, Neil spent 15 years involved with boarding at St Paul’s.
The thing I enjoyed the most was the connections I made with the boys. Connections that were made generally just by being present with them.
“You’d wander into a dorm and just chat to the boys. You’d be chatting and get distracted and then realise it was past lights out time. The key to managing that many boys was always building relationships with them.”
The role was not without its challenges, however. Through sheer hours of being present with the boys Neil turned Clark House into a calm, safe environment, with good structures.
“So much of what we do as teachers is building relationships and it’s something St Paul’s does well. With the boys, the other staff, and the parents,” says Neil.
His calm manner and routine setting appealed to students’ sense of decency rather than taking punitive measures.
“It was certainly demanding because you’re constantly on call but the successes you experience along the way make it all worth it,” says Neil.
Staff remember Neil as the Mr Fixit of St Paul’s boarding, always leading from the front and leaving staff feeling obliged to match his energy and effort.
Garth Littlejohn who was Deputy Housemaster of Clark House described Neil as an unsung hero of St Paul’s.
“To do 15 years in boarding alongside his sporting and academic commitments is a phenomenal achievement,” said Garth.
The respect Neil gained from students was evident as, over time, invites to 21st birthday parties or drinks at the local watering hole arrived from young men whose lives were influenced by Neil’s input.
“Teaching has been very good to me. It has been 40 years in total so far, including my time in South Africa. It certainly takes a bit out of you, but I say that with a smile on my face,” says Neil.
His time teaching maths at St Paul’s also saw him help shape students who struggled with the subject.
“I remember one student in particular, he struggled with the concepts, but he came back to a leavers function and told me it had all finally clicked when he left school,” says Neil.
Neil says teaching mathematics is more traditional than many
2008 Tennis Senior Boys B
Neil Muirhead with a cardboard cutout at Grant Lander’s staff farewell 2021
Neil Muirhead and Defyd Williams
subjects and he has thoroughly enjoyed teaching the Cambridge course for that exact reason.
While digital technology has provided a huge amount of material for teaching, he says many students still need basic instruction in maths to navigate the principles and ensure a solid foundation.
“There will always be students that will excel at certain subjects or find some subjects easier than others but it’s our job as teachers to give them the grounding they need to succeed,” says Neil.
Alongside his teaching and boarding commitments, Neil also had an impressive history in sports coaching at St Paul’s.
Five seasons coaching rugby (including three years as Master in Charge), six seasons coaching cricket, 14 seasons managing tennis teams, three seasons coaching athletics, 12 seasons coaching girls’ first XI hockey and a further six years with the girls’ second XI.
“I guess I am happiest when I’m busy to a large extent,” says Neil. He enjoyed his time coaching hockey the most and says one of his hardest farewells was with the second XI girls’ hockey team. It was always a close-knit group. Each year many of the girls were playing hockey for the first time. This provided its own challenges but every season the girls stepped up and produced a season that both players and staff could be proud of.
To see players go on to regional or national representation was always fulfilling, but also to see players start their hockey at St Paul’s and go on to play a significant role in hockey outside of school gives me a buzz.
His time coaching sport also allowed him to continue to build relationships with the students.
“Sport allows you to create relationships with the kids that are quite different to the classroom and if you can form those relationships outdoors you can bring them into the classroom as well,” says Neil.
While his time teaching, coaching and mentoring boarding students has been rewarding Neil says it is a situation where, ‘you get back what you put in.’
“There are always ups and downs but the vast majority of time you are working with great people with kindness and warmness, and these are the type of people that are part and parcel of St Paul’s,” says Neil.
Shaving his hair for charity
2014 Tennis Senior Boys
Neil Muirhead and Chilean coach watch the action
Tennis Coaching 2019 60th Reunion
Ryan and Kat Dippie launch Fife Lane restaurant
Collegian Ryan Dippie (Clark 1996-2000) is passionate about people and service. His mum and dad helped to kick start this passion during their years running the Kawerau service station. Ryan would help out on the forecourt pumping petrol and talking to people while they filled up.
His parents decision to send both him and his brother Owen Dippie (Clark 1997-2001) to boarding school, is a decision that upon reflection is not one he regrets. “The boarding structure, the independence, the Tihoi experience were all key factors in my upbringing - it ticked all the boxes. I was a sporty kid, passionate about golf, cricket and rugby. I was lucky enough to play with the likes of Dan Vettorri and be coached by Warren Gatland. I look back and see just how fortunate I was.
“I was lucky enough to have a gap year to Osphery School in the UK during my first year out of school with my mate Christopher Furminger. Thanks to Mr Campbell at the time we had
a ball overseas before I figured out I really needed to get my career on track. I enrolled at the Victoria University of Wellington to study law and management. Between my studies, I also juggled managing two restaurants in the city to help me pay for my studies. While three quarters through completing his degree, Ryan figured out that
hospitality is where he wanted to end up, preferably running his own restaurant. “I worked at the best restaurants around the country and made sure to learn from them.”
Married to the lovely Kat, Ryan and Katherine have two children, Quinn (6) and Henley (4).
“I met Kat while I was working at Harbourside restaurant in Tauranga and she was managing Bravo Restaurant Cafe. She was the boss, still is, and together we learnt hospitality from the best people in town, Jack and Nancy Hogg. Kat is the backbone of Fife Lane, managing everything back of house. Fife Lane wouldn’t be where it is today without Kat and we often talk about how lucky we are to have brought our vision together to create a dining experience based on quality food and wine. Formally owning Rain Bar in Papamoa for 10 years, Fife Lane is the ultimate in design and exceptional detail: the menu, their staff, the wine selectioneven their bathrooms! Seating
80 but most nights catering between 90-110 guests, the destination location has simply been word of mouth. Converted from an old car sales yard in the lane of shops of Central Parade in Mount Maunganui, this spot is understated and genuinely unique.
Put Fife Lane on your ‘must do’ list for a reservation.
https://fifelane.co.nz/
Fife Lane
Kat and Ryan Dippie
Opening night
Halter recruits only the best
BEING PART OF THE HALTER MOVEMENT IS A JOURNEY COLLEGIANS STEVE CROWHURST (WILLIAMS 1996-2000), AND JAMES HUNT (HALL 2009-2013) ARE INCREDIBLY PROUD TO SHARE.
Halter is a smart collar device allowing farmers to shift cattle remotely, set virtual boundary fences and proactively monitor animal health through a state-ofthe-art software application.
“What’s impressive about Halter is it’s a product where farmers are part of the development. We can improve our technology and then send updates to the customer with the touch of a button. Our customers are always up to date with the latest information,” says Steve.
Despite different academic and career backgrounds, Steve and James have wound up working for one of the fastest-growing agribusinesses in New Zealand.
While attending St Paul’s, Steve Crowhurst excelled in the sciences even undertaking exams an academic year ahead of himself. Embracing his passion for the subject, Steve completed a Bachelor of Science, with a double major in chemistry and textiles from the University of Otago.
Using his textiles qualifications, Steve began his career in the manufacturing sector, advising major global brands such as ADIDAS and Quicksilver. With
a passion for textiles and a natural gift of the gab, Business Development was the next logical step for the professional. After working abroad for several years between China and the United Kingdom, Steve eventually returned home.
Steve’s experience in sales, alongside a childhood spent on the family farm, meant he was the perfect fit for the job as Head of Business Development role at Halter when it became available. He describes it as ‘a perfect marriage.’
Steve is currently building up a sales team to work with farmers across the nation, introducing them to the Halter technology. As the product gains more exposure around the country, he believes it won’t be long before the company launches the product globally.
For James Hunt, he immersed himself in chemistry, physics and mathematics while attending St Paul’s, preparing himself for engineering at tertiary level. Initially, believing civil engineering would be his academic path, James instead completed a degree in Chemical and Process Engineering from the University of Canterbury.
After landing his first role out of university as a Technical Assistant of Operations at Tatua Dairy Company, James gained valuable experience working within the production line, optimising processes and productivity.
With a piquing interest in the agricultural sector, particularly in the technology space, Hunt was eager to be part of the revolution when the role of Fleet Operations Lead at Halter came up.
After taking on the role in early 2021, his job continues to evolve as the company rapidly grows. Confidently leading a team of three, James’ responsibilities include planning the collar deployment, scheduling, warehouse and stock management, and quality assurance.
“My fleet are the collars. From the moment the collar leaves the factory to when it gets fitted, I am responsible for them,” says James.
Nearly doubling the number of employees over the last year, Halter recruits only the best business developers, app developers, engineers, software developers, customer service and marketers on offer. With colleagues hailing from NASA, Rocket Lab, McLaren and Google, the workplace often buzzes with fresh ideas.
Working with sophisticated technologies attracts the most talented minds. This continually grows the team in the best way possible, says Steve.
The tight-knit culture of Halter means there is a real sense of urgency for everyone to play their part. Staff are labelled as ‘leaders in the field’, and both men describe the environment as ‘unique.’
“It’s exciting to be part of a business that could potentially end up on every farm worldwide - the opportunities within the technology space are endless,” says James.
With no sign of slowing down for Steve, James or Halter, it is undoubtedly a thrilling time to be part of the movement.
The King’s Singers
James Hunt
Steve Crowhurst
Collegians return to St Paul’s as new teachers
ST PAUL’S UNIQUE AND SUPPORTIVE CULTURE WAS A BIG DRAWCARD FOR BOTH ROBERT TORRANCE (SCHOOL 2005-2008) AND SAVANNAH PATTERSON (HARINGTON 2013-2014) AS THEY RETURNED TO SCHOOL AS TEACHERS THIS YEAR.
Robert and Savannah agree teachers at St Paul’s work hard to enable students to reach their full potential and teaching with high expectations helps to deliver on this.
Savannah completed her teaching practicum at St Paul’s and was excited to be given the opportunity to return to teach English this year after teaching at Morrinsville College.
Robert had been at Hauraki Plains College over the past five years teaching mathematics
Lucas Martin at helm of new dealership
Former Head Boy Lucas Martin (Hamilton 2009-2013) has risen through the career ranks in record time.
After four short years of employment at Winger Motors in Auckland, Lucas began his automotive journey selling vehicles, then managing a team of sales executives, and now he’s been entrusted with operating the brand new Winger Motors Subaru dealership.
“I’m passionate about the Subaru brand and am confident in
leading and motivating the team at Winger Motors East Auckland,” says Lucas.
Having proven his superior sales skills early on, Wayne Leach, Director of Winger Motors, had no doubt Lucas was the right man for the job.
“Lucas is passionate about the Subaru brand and will, without a doubt, provide excellent customer service for our Subaru customers. His Subaru knowledge is second-to-none, and East Auckland Subaru
and psychology. He is looking forward to teaching a varied curriculum, while also being able to spend more time with Hamilton based family.
During his high school years, Robert recalls Tihoi as being the ultimate highlight of his time at St Paul’s and says it gave him a love for the New Zealand bush, leading him to be a Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) volunteer for many years.
“The other thing I loved about St Paul’s was their willingness to extend me where required, allowing me to bridge across multiple year levels”, he says.
Savannah agrees, crediting the opportunities she had at St Paul’s as helping her on life’s pathway.
“Colin Lewis taught me English in Year 13 and helped grow my love for all things English. His passion for the subject was inspiring”, she says.
“Colin played a huge role in
owners are in great hands with Lucas at the helm.”
Still early days since the opening on Friday 4 February, Lucas has already hit the ground running with strong vehicle sales and service numbers.
“The leadership skills I gained at St Paul’s, particularly as Head Boy, has fast-tracked me into a career I love. Sales and
me deciding to go on to study English and creative writing at university, which I am very thankful for as it led me to where I am today”.
Robert was also inspired by a teacher at St Paul’s; the legendary Gary Judkins. Head of Mathematics, Mr Judkins taught Robert for three years. He says Mr Judkins gave him a love for mathematics, problem solving and chess.
I hope that I can provide my class with even half as much of the energy as he provided us, he says.
Robert and Savannah have similar advice to give to their students; make the most of all the opportunities, enjoy the competitiveness and camaraderie and not to take anything for granted.
management are all about communicating effectively and understanding people. Nearly 10 years later, I still appreciate the community that supported me throughout my time at St Paul’s, and I accredit them for the opportunities I am fortunate to have today.”
Savannah Patterson
Robert Torrance
Director Wayne Leach (left) and Lucas Martin
Pioneer Student of Agribusiness
AFTER GROWING UP ON A DAIRY FARM AND KIWIFRUIT ORCHARD IN THE BAY OF PLENTY, KATE WILKINS (HARINGTON 2012-2014) THOUGHT SHE WOULD NEVER PURSUE A CAREER IN HORTICULTURE. BUT AFTER STUDYING AGRIBUSINESS AT ST PAUL’S COLLEGIATE SCHOOL, SHE DISCOVERED THE WORLD OF OPPORTUNITY IN NEW ZEALAND’S PRIMARY SECTOR.
by New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers
The 25-year old is now an Extension Delivery Specialist at Zespri, the world’s largest fruit marketer. The company sells kiwifruit to more than 50 countries around the globe and has licensed growers in Italy, France, Japan, and South Korea.
“Having grown up around agriculture and horticulture I wasn’t sure if I wanted a career in the sector. It was ‘normal’ and not exciting to me, and after working in the kiwifruit orchard during the summer holidays I didn’t want to ever work in an orchard again,” laughs Kate.
Kate studied Agribusiness in Year 12 and 13 at St Paul’s, starting in 2014 when the course was still in its infancy. St Paul’s established the agribusiness programme to meet the primary industry’s needs for engaged, well-qualified young people, enthusiastic about their career opportunities in the primary sector. NZ Kiwifruit Growers Inc have partnered with the Agribusiness in Schools project which is now being taught in 97 schools nationally, catering to 3057 students in 2020.
Kate had always enjoyed economics and accounting and with a farming background she says Agribusiness seemed like a natural progression for her.
“Studying Agribusiness at St Paul’s really opened my eyes to the multitude of career opportunities within the primary industry, which didn’t just include working out on an orchard or on farm,” she says.
Kate found the course offered students access to industry leaders and she remembers guest speakers including Richard Burke, General Manager of LeaderBrand, which is New Zealand’s most diverse horticulture business. She says their presentations and the curriculum provided insights across the entire value chain of the primary industry.
After finishing high school, Kate enrolled in a Bachelor of Commerce at Canterbury University, but by the second semester she decided to shift to Lincoln University to study a Bachelor of Commerce Agriculture.
“I could see a clear career path. It was economics and accounting, but it also took in the supply chain, animal science, plant science and soil science. It gave me a sense of purpose around what I wanted to do,” says Kate.
When she graduated in 2017, Kate returned to work on her family’s farm. She set about establishing a new 12-hectare organic gold kiwifruit orchard to add to the six hectares of gold and green orchards they already had. It was while establishing the new orchard Kate found her niche.
We had a lot of people through the orchard at that time, including people from Zespri, because what we were doing was new and fresh.
Kate was offered a role in Zespri’s Extension team. As an Extension Delivery Specialist Kate says she is now focused on creating positive change in New Zealand’s kiwifruit industry.
“We’re supporting and inspiring growers to produce the world’s best kiwifruit, whether that’s through changes in sustainability practices, production practices or even health and safety. No two days are the same,” says Kate.
She loves that it’s not a typical office job and that she can get out in the field and see the impact her work is having on growers.
“I love the interaction with growers and using my knowledge to provide them with advice or solutions to problems.
One day I can be running a field day and the next day I’m writing a newsletter or talking to growers about nutrient management and irrigation methods.”
For anyone thinking about taking Agribusiness Kate encourages them to go and research the jobs on Seek.
“Search roles in Agribusiness and see the jobs that come up. You’ll soon realise it’s not all on a farm or in an orchard,” says Kate.
Kate Wilkins
Kate Wilkins at Zespri
1. Diving in! 2. Logan Spencer and Riley Wills celebrate win 3. Javelin throw from Hamilton House 4. Girls breaststroke race 5. Taking the lead in the relay race 6. Ready, set, GO 7. Race Relations Day 8. Boys backstroke race 9. Gold win for Riley Wills 10. House spirit at swimming sports 11. Making a leap for Hamilton House 12. Pun Paramaputi (left), Mayor Paula Southgate and Karina Yu 13. Embracing in victory at the Maadi Cup 14. A strong landing from Williams House 15. Competitors eager to race 16. Smiles all around at Maadi Cup 17. House support at swimming sports finals 18. Bronze win for the St Paul’s team at Maadi Cup 19. Williams House mascot Shrek ready to cheer on at swimming sports finals 20. Impressive shotput throw from School House 21. Fastest to the finish! 22. Staff and Mayor Paula Southgate 23. And they’re off! 24. Clark House in the lead
Kerwan Rose
A new start-up venture created by Collegian Kerwan Rose (School 2011-2015) uses technology that streamlines the recruitment process for employing tradespeople. Kerwan grew up in Te Awamutu and is of Ngaati Maniapoto descent. He says he discovered his love for technology in computer science classes at St Paul’s and went on to study information systems and computer science at the University of Waikato.
Kerwan’s concept, aptly titled Meport, was launched in March 2022, just one year after he created the idea. The software he designed automates the background checks when employers look to hire
Harris Moana
Harris Moana (Hamilton 2015-2019), descendant of Waikato and Ngaati Maniapoto, was recently named the new Tumuaki of Lincoln University’s Te Awhioraki Maaori Student’s Association.
Harris is keen to help build the whanaungatanga within Maaori students at the University. Whanaungatanga is about relationships and building a sense of family connection.
Harris is now in his third year of a Bachelor of Agricultural Science, and is aiming to help new, current and future Maaori students at Lincoln University through his role as Tumuaki.
tradespeople. It saves time and ultimately, helps Kiwis get into employment faster.
Being fortunate to place second in one of Hamilton’s business start-up support scheme’s, Kerwan was awarded a Soda Inc seed grant in 2021. He won $3000 which was instrumental in helping to advance his business idea. He says his goal for Meport is to become a system used nationwide to help Kiwis get into employment faster and smarter.
“New Zealand is currently experiencing a number of labour shortages, particularly in the trade industry, and I hope that Meport will help to ease some of these issues”, he says.
He understands the need to support Maaori students during their studies, and is also able to identify with the challenges of relocating to a new area as he did after leaving St Paul’s.
Hannah Mayer and Madeleine Dickie
Hannah Mayer (Harington 2017 – 2019) and Madeleine Dickie (Harington 2017-2019) were recently accepted into veterinary school, at Massey University in Palmerston North. This is a highly competitive degree programme and over 400 students applied with only 100 places being offered to domestic students. They are in their second year of the five-year degree after both took a gap year after leaving school. They both agree that St Paul’s set them up well for the challenges of the vet programme.
Arjun Singh
Arjun Singh (Fitchett 2010-2014) now manages the family farm with assistance from Anjena Singh (Harington 2010-2011) and their younger sister Amreeta. After becoming frustrated by the seasonal extremities, the Singhs built a barn to house their cows and switched to a Northern Hemisphere-style indoor farming system to better protect and feed their animals.
The decision was initiated by the late Aman Singh and his wife, Daljit, and their son Arjun.
In memory of their father, the family held a stock sale fundraiser where 5% of the sale price was donated to the Heart Foundation and Rural Support Trust.
Kerwan Rose
Harris Moana
Madeleine Dickie
Hannah Mayer
Arjun Singh
Lachlan
Coleman
During his final year at St Paul’s, and the first nationwide lockdown, Lachlan Coleman (Hall 2016-2020) began stripping down and rebuilding a rare 1997 Land Rover Defender 2.8i. Giving the vehicle a meticulous, back to bare metal restoration, it is the only Land Rover of its kind in New Zealand.
During the several thousand hours process, Lachlan sourced the necessary parts from all over the world to achieve a better-than-factory original spec. Having now finished the rebuild, Lachlan’s Defender performs like a dream.
Tanika Naidoo
As a student of St Paul’s, Tanika Naidoo (Harington, 2019 –2021) was involved in driving participation in the World Vision 40 Hour Famine for three years. Recently she was awarded the prestigious role of World Vision Youth Ambassador for 2022.
Photography Portfolio
Luther Yates’s (Clark 2017-2021) photography folio board, above, has been selected in the NZQA Top Art Exhibition for 2022.
The Top Art is an annual tour featuring a selection of NCEA Level 3 portfolios that achieved
Excellence in Visual Arts from the previous year. Luther and 14 other photography students will showcase their artwork around the country.
Sefton family contribute to Collegian Pavilion lighting upgrade
The Collegians Pavilion is home to our proud rugby history and the walls are adorned with rugby photos from across the decades. Used for Collegians Committee meetings and Board meetings along with many functions and events, it has seen an upgrade over recent years. With new paint and rimu panelling, the Pavilion now boasts a brand-new lighting design thanks to Collegian David Sefton (Williams 1993 - 1996) and Sefton Electrical.
David and Kelly Sefton’s business accessed the materials and
donated the labour to install the new lights in the Pavilion.
We are very grateful to David and the team at Sefton Electrical for this contribution.
Samisoni Taukei’aho
Collegian Samisoni Taukei’aho (Sargood 2013-2015) is pictured alongside Director of Rugby, Paul Hodder outside Sargood House. Samisoni has kindly donated his #16 All Blacks jersey to St Paul’s Collegiate School where it will take pride of place in the Collegians Pavilion.
Collegian Paul Johns (Hall 1991-1995) merged his law firm, Baldwins IP, with AJ Park IP last year and was appointed as head of the Litigation and Commercial group of the merged firm, trading as AJ Park. He was also recently appointed to sit on the Copyright Tribunal at the New Zealand Ministry of Justice. Paul lives in Auckland with his wife of 17 years, Amy and their two children, Ed (9) and Emily (7).
Lachlan Coleman
Tanika Naidoo
Pavilion lighting installation
Paul Johns
Three generations of the Sefton family
Samisoni Taukei’aho (left) and Director of Rugby, Paul Hodder
Weddings
Stefan Andreef (Hall 20112015) married Hannah Brydon on Saturday 22 January 2022 at his family property in Waitomo Caves. All nine groomsmen were
From left: Reed Fisher (School 2011-2015), Matthew Collier (Hall 2012-2015), Sam Lockwood-Geck (Hall 2011-2015), Junting Wei (Fitchett 2011-2015), Stefan Andreef (Hall 2011-2015, Head of Hall 2015), Luke Goodwin (Best Man, Fitchett 2011-2015), Tom Goodwin (Fitchett, 2011-2015), Winston Barrett-Hogg (Hamilton 2011-2015), Paddy Forde (Hamilton 2011-2015), and Timothy Husband-Dravtzki (Hall 2011-2015).
Stefan’s closest mates at St Paul’s. Stefan and Hannah have now relocated to Melbourne, and we wish them all the very best!
Condolences
Gabriella Grilli, much loved former chef at St Paul’s Collegiate School, passed away in October 2021. Loved wife of Giuseppe and good friend to many, including current St Paul’s chef Chris Warner who worked alongside her many years ago.
Christopher Brears (Sargood 1965–1967) passed away in September 2021. Much loved son of the late John and Sophy Brears and beloved brother of Timothy Brears, Susan McKenna, Richard Brears and Rodney Brears.
Teacher and Williams Housemaster Matthew Holdgate tied the knot with Sally Young on Saturday 9 April
Congratulations Matt and Sally!
Bruce Douglas Eyers (School 1972–1975) passed away in January 2022. Beloved husband of Gayle. Dearly loved and proud father of Ryan, Glenn, and Jonathan. Treasured brother, brother-in-law and uncle.
Vaughan
Alexander Jackson (School 1984–1986) passed away in December 2021. Dearly loved son of Anne (Omokoroa) and Jim (Morrinsville). Much loved brother of Fraser and WendyAnne. A good friend to many.
Stuart Allen Yarndley (School 1982-1985) passed away in February 2022. Stu was the son of Foundation pupil, Richard Yarndley (known as Sandy.) Cherished father of Emma, Rebecca and Matthew. Beloved twin son of Sandy and Jan. Brother and brother-in-law to Craig and Jenny, Scott and Jennie, and Cameron and Anna. Partner of 27 years to Tania. Uncle of many, and friend to all.
Carrick Blair Robertson (Sargood, School 1961-1965) passed away peacefully at his home in November 2021, following a long and valiant battle with illness. Much loved husband of Norma, brother of Anna Lilley, Louise Axten, Julie Marmont and John Robertson, uncle and teacher.
St Paul’s teacher and Clark Assistant Housemaster Matt ReesGibbs, married Kate Kernaghan on Friday 7 January at Kauri Bay Boomrock. We wish them a lifetime of happiness!
at The Narrows Landing.
Collegians network strengthens community
The St Paul’s Collegians Association was created to encourage networking and collegiality between St Paul’s staff, Collegians and current students.
St Paul’s students are encouraged to stay in touch through the Collegians Association when they finish school, and they are invited to take part in networking events, reunions and sports fixtures.
Reconnecting with friends from the school and staff is an important part of being a Collegian and contributes to the overall strength of the school community. The support that students get at school continues throughout their life journey
as they become part of the Collegians Association.
Families pay an annual Collegian Association fee for their children while they attend St Paul’s and once the student has graduated, they no longer pay and the student is considered a Collegian for life.
Fees go towards hosting Collegian networking events and reunions, while some funds are allocated to scholarships.
During the early stages of the pandemic, the Collegians Association established a hardship fund which meant that families could access a financial contribution to help them to meet their fee obligations.
Collegians can give back by becoming part of the Committee, which meets five times a year with an AGM held in September. All Collegians are welcome to attend these meetings.
TO FIND OUT MORE, PLEASE CONTACT
collegians@stpauls.school .nz
Introducing new Collegians Executive Officer to St Paul’s
With a background in travel and event management, Kalena Finlayson is looking forward to transferring some of these skills and her fondness for the St Paul’s school community to her new role as the Collegians Executive Officer.
Taking over from Ginny Semmens in May, Kalena is excited to be a part of the St Paul’s team. Parent of Blake
Finlayson (Year 12) and daughter Hannah Finlayson (Harington 2019-2021), she is already entrenched in the school community. Kalena is the current secretary of the St Paul’s Rowing Club and runs her own travel company, Momento Group. Born and bred in the Waikato until moving to Mount Maunganui as a teenager, Kalena returned to her Waikato roots
in 2011, relocating her family to Hamilton from Tauranga.
As the new Collegians Executive Officer, Kalena is looking forward to meeting St Paul’s Collegians and connecting past and present families and closely as possible.
Kalena Finlayson
1. 2021 Dux of School Didier Lawson (left) and Alexandra Johnson 2. Jackson Mackwood awarded the Haylett-Petty Memorial Trophy 3. Dress up fun for the girls 4. Chloe Park (left) and Saniya Kansal 5. Frazer Tam awarded The Gummer Gavel 6. Girls at the 2021 Leavers Luncheon 7. Emily Jin awarded the Kauenga Science Trophy and Beckett prize for Literature 8. Robert Crawford recieves the David Harries Memorial Trophy 9. Year 13 Great Oak Award winners with Headmaster Ben Skeen 10. Year 13 leavers group photo 11. Head Boy and Girl locking up time capsule 12. School haka for the 2021 leavers 13. Sophie Marsh at Prizegiving 14. Group photo at the 2021 Leavers Luncheon 15. Tanika Naidoo awarded the de Jong Trophy 16. Group photo at the 2021 Leavers Luncheon 17. Matire Ormsby-van Selm receives the Te-Manu-Tawhio-Rangi Trophy 18. Year 13 leavers 19. Drake Walther wins International Award 20. Caitlyn Fladgate recieves the Galatians Trophy 21. Group photo at the 2021 Leavers Luncheon 22. Year 13 leavers 23. Marcia Graafhuis awarded the Seavill Cup 24. Head Boy Matthew Waddell receives the Leggatt Prize and Old Collegians’ Trophy.
Deputy Leaders of St Paul’s
WORKING ALONGSIDE HEAD BOY SAMUEL PEOPLES AND HEAD GIRL LEAH WECK IS DEPUTY HEAD BOY DANIEL WILLIAMS AND DEPUTY HEAD GIRL JOANNA LI.
Daniel Williams (Year 13) is a competent academic contributor whose name has regularly been featured at the annual academic prizegiving events. The proud Fitchett House member achieved NCEA Level 1 and 2 with Excellence and has been acknowledged as a Scholastic Centurion at Level 1 for Te Reo Maaori, IGCSE Chemistry, IGCSE Mathematics, and IGCSE Physics and at Level 2 for Chemistry, English, Geography, Mathematics with Calculus, Physics, and Te Reo Maaori.
Daniel has been a member of the St Paul’s ski team for the past four years and was captain during 2021. While undertaking Tihoi Venture School in Year 10, Daniel gained his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and was named Most Valued House Member for Gills House.
Daniel has been a member of the St Paul’s Choir and travelled with them to the Aspire International Music Festival in Australia in 2019, where the choir placed third.
Daniel is held in the highest regard by his housemates and house staff. He has a considerable work ethic, shows maturity, and has made the most of every opportunity presented to him over the past four and a half years. In recent years, he has exercised his considerable leadership skills within both sporting and service arenas and is ready to take on a greater leadership role in his final year.
Joanna Li (Year 13) joined St Paul’s as a Year 11 Harington House day student in 2020. She has gained her NCEA Level 1 and Level 2 certificates with Excellence and was awarded her
Held from 28 March to 2 April, the New Zealand Secondary Schools Rowing Championships (Aon Maadi Cup) is the most prestigious event on the rowing calendar. Placing fifth out of 95 schools, all 24 dedicated rowers from St Paul’s Collegiate School successfully reached A Finals, with a total of four medals claimed.
Competing in the NZ made Laszlo boat he won in, in the same race, at the 2021 Maadi Cup, Riley Wills won the boys’ U18 single sculls. He is the first person to win this final race back to back.
Riley Wills, Logan Spencer, Levi Davidson, Connor Irving, and
Scholars’ tie with a GPA of 100%. Joanna was acknowledged as a Scholastic Centurion in Level 1 Geography, IGCSE Chemistry, IGCSE English, IGCSE Physics, Level 2 mathematics, and Cambridge AS Mathematics, and gained an Outstanding Scholarship in Geography - all while still a Year 11 student. That same year, Joanna was awarded first in the world for Chemistry in Cambridge IGCSE. Following her 2021 studies, Joanna has received recognition as a Scholastic Centurion in Level 2 Chemistry and Geography and Level 3 Mathematics with Calculus and Physics.
Joanna has been selected in the 2022 New Zealand U19 Badminton Squad and represents the Waikato Elite and school team. She is a member of the senior debating team, placing second in the 2021 Race
Three gold and
a
Unity Speech Awards, gaining a Highly Commended Top 4 in the region that same year.
Staff have described Joanna as positive, with an encouraging attitude, friendly and cheerful. She is multi-talented and able to maintain a high level of balance across the many and varied facets of life.
Both Daniel and Joanna are enthusiastically involved with the school service programmes including the Over the Fence Ministry, volunteered at the St Joan’s Resthome and Hospital through the ukulele and art classes, and attended the World Vision Youth Conference. Both students have received their community service ties for their active engagement over the years.
bronze for St Paul’s at the Aon Maadi Cup
George Mackintosh (coxswain) won the boys’ U18 coxed quad sculls A Final, taking home a gold medal and the Trevor Coker Memorial Shield.
Another win for Riley Wills and Logan Spencer in the boys’ U18 double sculls A Final, the pair were also awarded the Maurice Jones Cup.
Sophie Dunn, Georgia Wightman, Beth Clearwater, Isabella Etherington, and Fred Phillips (coxswain) came third in the girls’ U18 novice coxed quad sculls A Final.
In addition to the podium finishes, Riley Wills, Logan Spencer, and Charlize Tutbury were invited to trial for the Rowing Zealand Junior team due to their outstanding performances on the water.
Riley Wills wins gold
U18 double sculls A Final
Bronze for the girls’ U18 team
Trevor Coker Memorial Shield
Joanna Li (left) and Daniel Williams at ANZAC Memorial Service
Building blocks for a career path
After learning the basics in Technology classes during Years 11 and 12, the Year 13 Building and Construction class have now taken on their biggest project yet.
Under the watchful guidance of St Paul’s builder Adrian Wesford, these students are getting to work on school soil as they team together with other builders and contractors to build the school’s new Visual Art Block. They work an eight-hour day once a week to gain experience as a building apprentice.
“The beauty of these classes means students get a chance to see what their potential career might look on a job site,” says Mr Wesford. “The bonus is they can be really proud of the work they’ve completed on school grounds for years to come.”
Being involved in the construction class progamme gives these students a good head start in pursuing a career in the building trade. Not only are they adding this experience to their resumes, but these students are often chosen for apprenticeships in carpentry after leaving St Paul’s because of their involvement in the programme.
“Having spent a year learning these valuable skill sets, these students are now considered a desirable choice for future employers,” says Mr Wesford.
Renee Carey snatches finish line tape
Three musicians selected for New Zealand Secondary Schools Orchestra
On Sunday 27 March,
Renee Carey (Year 11) was first over the line in the U16 girls’ triathlon category at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Triathlon Championships. Bringing home a national title and a gold medal, Renee did not hold back as she fiercely fought the 300m swim, 10km bike and 3km run.
Originally wanting to enter a team in the race at the New Plymouth beach, Renee struggled to convince any of her sporting buddies to compete with her. Regardless, Renee pursued the race in blustery conditions, gaining the individual win.
After auditioning for a position in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Orchestra (NZSSO) in December 2021, students Matthew Chanwai (Year 12), Emily Jin (Year 13) and Samara Nation (Year 13) have been selected to represent the prestigious ensemble.
Matthew, for the fourth year in a row, has been accepted into the orchestra for his talent on the cello. Emily makes up the orchestra as one of the ‘first violinists’ in her debut year. After playing the violin for 13 years, Samara picked up the viola two years ago and has since been selected to play in the orchestra.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, initial performances have been cancelled but we look forward to seeing the trio of musicians back on stage in the near future.
Emily Jin
Samara Nation
Art Block - April 2022
Mr Wesford (left), Sam Pepper, James McLanachan, Hunter Singh and George Stace
Experiencing worklife on a job site
Renee Carey
Matthew Chanwai
Renee Carey wins!
Laura Littlejohn continues international swim streak
As the only New Zealand representative to attend the 15th FINA Senior World Short Course Swimming Championships in December 2021, Laura Littlejohn (Year 13) continues to shine in the pool both nationally and internationally.
Laura travelled solo to Abu Dhabi for the competition in December, where she swam in four events, gaining a best finish of 18th in the 100m freestyle. She finished 20th in the 100m individual medley event, 24th in the 50m freestyle, and 24th in the 200m freestyle race. Laura also broke the New Zealand Age Group records for her 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly swim during those races.
The newly appointed AquaBlack was recently selected to compete at the 19th FINA World Championships in Budapest in
June. Here, Laura will swim in the women’s 4x200m freestyle and the mixed 4x100m freestyle. Good luck with your next major contest, Laura!
Waikato/Bay of Plenty Junior Farmer of the Year
Over 5-6 March, four St Paul’s teams entered in the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Junior Farmer of the Year Competition. Up against 17 other teams, the groups competed in teams of two and were challenged to a series of modules based on the food and fibre sector. Congratulations to Benjamin Allen (Year 13)
Scholarship Examination recipients
St Paul’s Collegiate School obtained 28 New Zealand Scholarship Examinations, including three Outstanding Scholarships for the top-tier national exams at the end of 2021. The following students conducted some of the best results in the country for these prestigious exams:
Year 13 (2021)
• Maddison Oliver-Coffey: Three Scholarship exams in English, Biology, and Health and Physical Education
• Jessamyn Freyberg: Scholarship Exam in Mathematics with Calculus
• Isara Gatfield-Duds: Scholarship Exam in Photography
• Zoe Hanna: Scholarship Exam in Biology
• Grace Kingsnorth: Scholarship Exam in Photography
• Maggie Walch: Two Scholarship Exams in English and History
• Drake Walther: Scholarship Exam in Photography
• Rylee Winmill: Scholarship Exam in Photography
Year 12 (2021)
• Joanna Li: Five Scholarship Exams in Physics, Earth and Space, Calculus, and Music and an Outstanding Scholarship in English
• Emily Jin: Three Scholarship Exams in English, Biology, and Accounting
• Sam Ladbrook: Outstanding Scholarship in Technology (Computer Science)
• Anna Egan: Scholarship Exam in Japanese
• Emma Kenny: Scholarship Exam in Geography
• Gia King: Scholarship Exam in History
and Alex Purdie (Year 13), who came first in the region, and to Kate Morton (Year 13) and Finn Morton (Year 9), who placed second.
Both these teams move through to the grand final to battle it out for the title of FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year in July.
• Max Robinson: Scholarship Exam in History
Year 11 (2021)
• Matthew Chanwai: Outstanding Scholarship in Music
• Nicole Chen: Scholarship Exam in Geography
• Jack Thomas: Scholarship Exam in History
• Scott Zhou: Scholarship Exam in Chemistry
Laura Littlejohn
Laura Littlejohn (far right)
Joanna Li
FMG Junior Young Farmer of the Year
Tihoi team expands
Under the leadership of Peter Evans, Director of Tihoi Venture School, is a passionate team of 10 teachers and instructors who proudly share their knowledge of the outdoors with students.
Having already taught at Tihoi in the past, Michael King joins the community as the Head of Operations. Mike is responsible for maintaining and future proofing the facilities, tutoring Pollys House, and teaching the outdoor programmes.
Keen paddler and scientist Rob Evans (no relation to Peter!) joins Tihoi as Head of Teaching and Learning. Having taught both in New Zealand and abroad, Rob is passionate about proving how science in the outdoors makes academics relevant.
The Teacher and Outdoor Instructors team includes Rob Wynn (the brother of former Director of Tihoi, Chris Wynn), long-serving staff members Boyd McManus, Stew Tukerangi, and Michelle Campbell.
Making up the Outdoor Instructor team are extraordinaires James McLean, Dave Lourie, and Tamara (Tami) Green. Together the trio has years of outdoor experience and a multitude of qualifications across a variety of pursuits.
In charge of the outdoors is Cameron Walker who rejoins Tihoi after a hiatus of several years. During those years away, Cameron has worked as a mountain guide in the South Island, sat on the board of the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association, guided in both Antarctica and the Arctic and recently got engaged.
Alongside the teachers and
From retirement to Sports Chaplain
FONDLY KNOW AS ‘CHAPPIE’, WAYNE DOUGLAS IS A RESEPCTED AND VALUED MEMBER OF THE ST PAUL’S COLLEGIATE SCHOOL COMMUNITY.
Employed as the school Sports Chaplain, Chappie shares career highlights and how he ended up working with Sports Chaplaincy New Zealand.
“After 40 years in radio and television, I found myself retired. As a rugby referee for secondary schools in North Harbour, Bay of Plenty and Waikato, I always had a passion for rugby and young people. When I also had to retire
outdoor instructors, Nicola Evans, Peter’s wife, holds the integral role of Student Support Liaison. Tihoi Venture School also employs two grounds staff, an
after setting up a meeting with then Headmaster Grant Lander and Revd Peter Rickman in 2018, Wayne was commissioned in the Chapel of Christ the King and welcomed to the St Paul’s family as the Sports Chaplain.
administration manager, three caterers, and a nanny. Gerard Pasco leads the Tihoi kitchen, keeping those boys fed and ready to go.
from refereeing due to an archilles injury, my wife Noelene asked me how I was going to fill in my day.”
Wayne felt his faith-based approach and making a difference in people’s lives was something he received immense joy from. He wasn’t sure how he was going to use these skills post retirement, until he had a conversation with a man called John Parker.
John Parker, a past parent of St Paul’s, was also the Waikato Sports Chaplaincy leader. John was a former New Zealand International cricketer – and therefore his chaplaincy work was primarily across sports. John believed this was a path Wayne could also follow. Soon
Typically Sports Chaplains are volunteers, providing help to navigate the triumphs, trials and tragedies young people face in sport. Chappie offers pastoral care, mentoring, life skills, bereavement and grieving care, stress management and above all, always available to listen.
Dylan Fletcher (Year 12) recently provided an email to Chappie and thanked him for all his work with him while he was recovering from a season ending injury.
“Hey Chappie, just wanted to say thank you for being at trainings and helping me out. Being injured is pretty tough at times and having to watch trainings and games while the boys are playing is difficult. I just appreciated having someone to talk to and encourage me when
I got down and having someone on the sidelines to speak to about the frustrations is really helpful. A lot of people don’t understand so it’s nice to have someone to try and relate to. Thank you for being a vital part of the team.”
Always taken aback by the incredible feedback, Chappie remarks how these comments mean so much to to him.
“If I have made a difference in just one person’s journey in life, I feel like I have succeeded. These kids are wonderful people and I get a lot of joy watching them develop and grow into fine human beings.”
Always on the sidelines to support whichever sport he can, Chappie is often seen around campus dressed immaculately and donning a friendly smile.
Chappie
Chappie supporting the rugby boys
Michelle Campbell Rob Evans Tami Green
Rob Wynn Dave Lourie Michael King
Nicola Evans Boyd McManus James McLean
St Paul’s Foundation
One of the most inspirational influences on St Paul’s Collegiate School was provided by Mr Reginald Hornsby and his wife, Mary. Mr Hornsby took up his appointment as Headmaster of St Paul’s in September 1963. In his six years as Headmaster, Mr Hornsby turned the school
around and by 1969, the survival of St Paul’s was assured.
The legacy of the Hornsby’s did not stop at their tenure in charge of the school. As our first benefactors, they are remembered through the work of the St Paul’s Foundation and by those who share their generosity of spirit. Together we continue to turn possibilities into reality.
The St Paul’s Foundation is the friend-raising and fundraising arm of St Paul’s Collegiate School. As a fully independent co-educational school, the school is dependent on
Milan Hood paints gift to Williams House
Inspired by working alongside New Zealand artist Gary Schofield (Hall 1970-1974) in 2018 to create the ‘Shrek Beware’ painting for Williams House. Then Year 9 student, Milan Hood (Year 13), always had a desire to somehow create his own work capturing the Williams House mascot and Williams House pride.
Housemaster Matthew
Holdgate approached Milan in 2021, as a Year 12 student, expressing his desire for Milan to begin creating his own masterpiece for Williams House. The brief was simple, create something iconic to Williams House featuring Shrek, the house mascot.
Milan worked on the painting over 11 months, during lockdowns, school holidays, and exeat weekends. Due to its
philanthropy to provide financial assistance in the following ways:
SCHOLARSHIPS
To ensure a greater number of children can experience a St Paul’s education
STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
To support our staff to keep abreast of cutting-edge developments in education
Support from our community makes a significant impact
2.4m scale and the challenges of moving the piece indoors, Milan’s painting days were limited to the outdoors on fine days. When the summer heat became unbearable, issues emerged with the paint drying too quickly. After finding a way to manoeuvre the painting indoors, the only suitable workspace was his mother’s dining room table.
For the following four months, the painting occupied the dining room before its completion in March. The ‘DubMan’, now positioned in the kitchen of Williams House was unveiled by Milan and Matt on Tuesday 29 March. Thank you, Milan, students will enjoy this piece for generations.
on our students and staff and increases the school’s ability to innovate, excel and lead. We are honoured and humbled to facilitate our community’s gracious philanthropy.
a.douglas@stpauls.school .nz
Milan Hood (left) and Williams
Housemaster Matt Holdgate
Milan and his mother Caroline Hood
Milan Hood painting at home
Milan Hood setting up to paint
Making progress on the painting
University Graduates
CONGRATULATIONS TO ST PAUL’S COLLEGIANS WHO HAVE RECENTLY HAD A TERTIARY QUALIFICATION CONFERRED.
UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO
Nicholas Beal Bachelor of Business
Jordan Davies
Bachelor of Teaching, Bachelor of Health Sport and Human Performance
Matthew MacLeod Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching
MASSEY UNIVERSITY
Evan Wilson
Master of Health Service Management, with Distinction
Samuel Forte
Bachelor of Design with Honours, Second Class Honours (Division 1) in Industrial Design
Emma Kelliher Bachelor of Nursing
Mollie Dyer
Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations, with a minor in Media Studies
Sophie Dyer
Bachelor of Communication in Public Relations, with a minor in Media Studies
Hedley Timbs
Postgraduate Certificate in Science and Technology
Catherine Chegwidden Postgraduate Diploma in International Security, with Distinction in Counter-Terrorism
Robert Simmons
Certificate in Business Studies
OTAGO UNIVERSITY
Anthony Chilcott-Parker Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Hannah Hoera Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Carne Lincoln Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science
Nonthiwat Seehamart Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
Annelies Watson-Holmes Postgraduate Diploma in Child Health
AUCKLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Hanyu Wang Bachelor of Engineering Technology
Gunn Hickmott
Bachelor of Health Science
Heath Johnson Bachelor of Design
Hannah Austin
Bachelor of Communication Studies
Callan Buchanan Bachelor of Creative Technologies
Murdoch McDonald
Graduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching
George Ott Diploma in Sport and Recreation
Louise van Bysterveldt
LINCOLN UNIVERSITY
Spencer Clayton-Greene Bachelor of Commerce (Agribusiness)
Please note not all tertiary institutions provide us with results; we include what is provided to us.
An evening of laughs and entertainment!
Bubbles after Five is a complimentary evening exclusive to ladies of St Paul’s.
So, whether you are a Collegian, current or past parent, or someone who has been part of our St Paul’s family, we invite you to join us for an evening of entertainment.
Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing) Thu 18 Nov - 6pm St Paul’s Dining Room
Contact Andrea on a.harper@stpauls.school.nz for more information
Save the date, book your free ticket online and bring a friend to enjoy our sensational guest speaker, Lisa O’Neill. Bubbles and canapes provided. - 2020 Bubbles After 5 attendee
At Bayleys we understand the value of an “altogether better” approach to everything we do. That’s why supporting young people to excel in a team sport they love sits so well with us and our values as a business. Nicki & Wayne, Rachel & Stephen are proud sponsors and supporters of the St Pauls rugby programme from Year 9 right up to the First XV. As parents of past, present and future players they are delighted to get behind a programme that fosters excellence, learning and a desire to be the best.
For an altogether better result for you and your property contact us today.
Stephen Shale 021 607 756
Rachel Waldegrave 021 748 001
Nicki Robb 021 343 170
Wayne Robb 021 712 511