Update from the President Grandparents’ Morning
Wednesday, 28 August
Wellington College warmly invite all grandparents and/or special relatives to join us for a morning celebration. Grandparents play a unique and invaluable role in the lives of our students, and we can't wait to show our appreciation. There will be a welcome from the Headmaster, a guided tour concluding with morning tea.
We understand not all students have grandparents, and some grandparents will be unable to attend. We encourage these students to bring another special adult - a family friend or other relative.
As an Old Boy, with a grandson(s) currently attending Wellington College, this is a special opportunity to spend the morning together.
Register yourself and your grandson HERE.
RSVP: Thursday, 21 August
grandad [gran-dad] noun.
wise and wonderful, hug giving, fountain of knowledge, provider of truth, warm and caring, beacon of inspiration, kind and gentle, time spent together is deeply treasured.
With over 13,000 active members and a growing network of Old Boys, the WCOBA is a vibrant and diverse community. Our goal is simple: to create a connected community where everyone feels valued and welcome.
that Wellington College continues to producethey are outstanding. You can catch up with the latest news from the College, as well Old Boys making the news, in this issue.
Though I left some years ago, reconnecting with fellow Old Boys and the School itself has highlighted the powerful and lasting bond we share. Despite the generations and the different paths we may have travelled in life, this bond remains a fundamental truth.
As President of the WCOBA, I have the privilege of attending all our reunions. It's striking how consistent the atmosphere and emotion is across generations. Whether it's a 20-year or a 60-year reunion, the sense of engagement and welcome is palpable. Everyone feels uplifted by the experience.
Reunions aren't just about nostalgia; they're very much about the present. The conversations are not just reminiscing about the past but also discussing the present and future. I notice how diverse the attendees are, yet within the reunion, we all find common ground. Old friendships are rekindled, and new ones are formed, all underlined by a genuine pride in our School and the values we stand for.
The WCOBA offers more than just reunions. There are many ways to engage with each other and the School, no matter where you are in the world through our communications, career mentoring, and volunteering to assist students, teams and cultural groups.
As our Old Boys’ Association grows, we welcome you to reach out, engage with us, and remember that we are here to support you. And always, stay connected.
The WCOBA’s primary focus is to connect and reconnect members across generations. No matter when you left school or where you are in the world today, you are always an Old Boy and belong.
Included in this issue is the report given at our recent AGM. The Executive accepted the resignation of Chris Nicholls (Class of 1988). Chris remains available to assist and support what we do with our Career Mentoring in conjunction with the College's Careers Department. We welcome two newly-elected representatives; George Garnett (Class of 2018) and James Isa (Class of 2023). It's heartening to see younger members joining the Executive and brings a fresh perspective to the association.
Ted Thomas, Class of 1976.
Despite leaving school 48 years and five Headmasters ago, it's clear that my values and yours remain relevant and recognisable in today's School. The best testament to this is the calibre of young men
George Garnett
James Isa
Reunion Schedule
Friday, 18 October
PROGRAMME
9.30am
Assemble and Register
@ The Archives Morning Tea
Meet the Headmaster
Photo Reminiscing Tour of the School Cohort Photo
• 6.00pm
Drinks and Dinner
@ The Wellesley Club
1984
PROGRAMME
9.30am
Assemble and Register
@ The Archives Morning Tea
Meet the Headmaster
Photo Reminiscing Tour of the School Cohort Photo
• 6.00pm
Drinks and Dinner
@ The Wellington Club
Friday, 25 October 1974
PROGRAMME
3.00pm
Assemble at the AGC Memorial Hall
Meet the Headmaster Cohort Photo Tour of the School
• 5.00pm Beers & Bites
@ Mean Doses Bar, 66 Tory Street
Friday, 1 November 1994
PROGRAMME
9.30am
Assemble and Register
@ The Archives Morning Tea
Meet the Headmaster
Photo Reminiscing Tour of the School Cohort Photo
• Noon
Drinks and Lunch
@ The Wellington Club
Friday, 22 November 1964
Those for whom we have a current email address or who follow us on Facebook will receive an email from us with registration details. If you haven’t heard from us, or if you are unsure which cohort you fall into, check below.
How we calculate your Cohort
Example 1: Started in 1960, left in 1963. Cohort is 1964.
Example 2: Started 1970, left in 1974. Cohort is 1974.
Example 3: Started in 1981. Left in 1983. Cohort is 1984.
1964 is your cohort as it’s the same group of students whose Form 3 year was 1960 [ie five years from Form 3 to Form 7/Upper 6, regardless of when you left].
1974 is your cohort as you have gone through five years with students who started in Form 3the same year as you.
1984 is still your cohort year as you were in Form 3 at another school.
In these examples, 1964, 1974 and 1984 are the years from which your anniversary of leaving school is calculated, by adding 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 years etc. Your cohort year may not be the year you left school per se but captures those fellow students who you were at school with, irrespective of how many years you attended, or the years you actually started or left. Some students qualify under two cohorts if they stayed for an extra year.
HELP US TO REBUILD THE TERRACES
The Terraces are the heart of our school community but they urgently need to be rebuilt to their former glory. This ambitious project is only possible with the support of generous people like you.
With nearly 1900 students, the Terraces is the only place we can gather together as one school family. But unfortunately, they are not looking their best right now. The brickwork and steps are crumbling. The west bank is described as being in poor condition and is undermined by an underwater stream with insufficient drainage. The steps are too narrow to navigate safely.
We urgently need your help to rebuild the Terraces to their former glory so our school community can enjoy this special space once again.
Can you join us and help rebuild The Terraces? Click HERE.
WC FOUNDATION
Introducing the College’s new Director of Advancement
Wellington College has been part of my life for many years and I am excited to undertake the role of Director of Advancement.
In some ways maybe it was always meant to be. My husband, Dallas Paotonu, is a proud Old Boy (Class of 1989), so much so that our wedding reception was in The Theatre in 1996! Our son Oliver Paotonu attended Wellington College (Class of 2017). As a family we were very involved as volunteers, Dallas coached rugby for a number of years, and I organised community fundraising for the AGC and for the WC Rugby Club. Getting John Campbell along for a hilarious night of Q & A with Headmaster Roger Moses was a real highlight.
Over my 18 years as a professional fundraiser, I have worked with generous philanthropists, funding organisations, businesses, iwi, community organisations, and government, to achieve some wonderful outcomes for communities internationally and locally. I look forward to working alongside the leadership of Wellington College, and you, our community, to achieve a strong, long term sustainable financial future. Together we will provide the best environment to support the goals and aspirations of all boys, who attend Wellington College, both now, and in the future.
I am always available to talk with you about how you would like to support Wellington College.
Karla
Paotonu
Director of Advancement
Mobile: 027 4528 058
Email: k.paotonu@wc.school.nz
AGM Report
At this year’s AGM in May, OBA President, Ted Thomas presented an overview of the 2023/2024 year.
This past year, we have witnessed a renewed sense of connection among our Old Boys, reestablishing ties in meaningful ways that offer both purpose and value. There has been a surge of energy to act, optimism for the future, and a desire to reconnect with the College in innovative ways.
A few highlights for me include welcoming back the Classes of 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, and 2003, and representing the OBA at these events. We were thrilled to host these reunion gatherings and look forward to hosting five more this year for cohorts ending in 4. We also celebrated the Quadrangular Function for Old Boys and supporters from four schools, capped off by our 1st XV winning the grand final.
We welcomed two new members to the Executive, Tomasi Palu and AJ Royfee, bringing younger representation to our board. Tomasi also addressed the Class of 2023 at their Leaving Ceremony, sharing his experiences and perspectives on life after Wellington College as an Old Boy. (See 2023 Lampstand).
As mentioned in last year’s President’s Report, the engagement of Giving Architects has led to the appointment of Karla Paotonu as the College’s Director of Advancement. As she builds her team, you will soon hear from Karla about her vision for how our Old Boys can help the school grow in numerous ways.
The Archives and Old Boys’
Office team have been working on projects to connect our past with current and future students. This includes photographic and memorabilia displays around the College and building albums for our forthcoming website. The Archives have welcomed many visitors for both viewing and research purposes, including classes, Prefects, and staff.
We were fortunate to have five Old Boys from the Armed Forces attend the College ANZAC commemoration assembly, visit the Archives and pay their respects to Old Boys who died serving their country in wars. Each individual is acknowledged with a white cross in the garden adjacent to the Archives - do go and view today if you have time.
The team is also restoring and installing the old scholarship boards and marble tablets in the AGC Hall. These pieces, which once adorned the two former Halls, will be a special addition when back in place.
Share your achievements! Do you have a story, milestone, or accomplishment worth sharing with our community? Please get in touch and share your news. Our community now boasts nearly 12,000 active members. As Old Boys, we are connected for life, forming one of the oldest associations in New Zealand.
In 2023, we have been diligent, purposeful, and successful. As President, I’d like to recognise the valuable contributions of each volunteer Committee member to
College life. I particularly want to thank Chris Nicholls, who is stepping down from the Executive but will continue to be involved in our mentoring programme.
To our Old Boys, stay connected, follow us on social media via Facebook f, and look out for our newsletters. You can also email us at oldboys@wc.school.nz.
Regarding our financials, we declared a deficit of $27,636 for 2023 (2022: 86,810 deficit). The good news is that with our operating costs now funded by the Foundation, we have established a sustainable operating model going forward and are projecting a small surplus for 2024. We continued to invest in programmes supporting College activities throughout 2023/4.
There remains some final production work for the archive videos, which will be completed around the same time we launch the Old Boys’ website to showcase our extensive archive materials. I would like to thank Executive Officer Steph Kane, Archivist Mike Pallin, and his team of volunteers: Gary and Abbey Girvan and Rod Page, and of course the Executive team for their continued support.
And I specially want to acknowledge others across the College ecosystem with whom we have worked to determine an understanding on how WCOBA, the College Board of Trustees and the Wellington College Foundation can actively work together and support the development of the College.
Lumen accipe et imperti Receive the light and pass it on
Obituaries
If you are aware of a fellow Old Boy’s passing, or wish to provide an obituary for an Old Boy or staff member, please email oldboys@wc.school. nz. Submissions will be included in our end-of-year Lampstand.
Since our April Newsletter, we have received news of the following recent losses in our community. We extend our deepest sympathies to their families and friends.
CLASS OF 1947
HORNBLOW, Barry Reid
1930 - 2024, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1943 - 1947
CLASS OF 1948
ALECOCK, Grahame John
1931 - 2024, Late of Wairarapa
Wellington College: 1931 - 2024 1st XV
HALL, Graeme Edward
1930 - 2024, Late of Nelson
Wellington College: 1944 - 1947 1st XI Hockey
SOUNESS, James (Jim) William
1931 - 2024, Late of Kapiti
Wellington College: 1944 - 1948
WRIGHT, Douglas Elliott CNZ, ONZM 0
1931 - 2023, Late of Waikato
Wellington College: 1944 - 1948 1st XI Hockey
CLASS OF 1949
HAMILTON, Andrew McAllum
1931 - 2024 Late of Nelson
Wellington College: 1945
REID, Brian Edward
1930 - 2024, Late of Hawkes Bay
Wellington College: 1945 - 1947
ROBINSON, Neil Ashley
1931 - 2024, Late of Bay of Plenty
Wellington College: 1945 - 1949 1st XI Hockey
CLASS OF 1950
BROOKS, Barry Hewitt 0
1932 - 2024, Late of Kapiti
Wellington College: 1946 - 1950
FUTTER, Bryan Lindsay
1933 - 2024, Late of Kapiti
Wellington College: 1950 - 1950
LUSH, James (Jim) Kingsley
1932 - 2024, Late of Wellington
Wellington College: 1946 - 1948
CLASS OF 1951
HARRIS, Howard William
1933 - 2024, Late of Wairarapa
Wellington College: 1949 - 1950
CLASS OF 1952
BAKER, Donald Vincent
1934 - 2024
Wellington College: 1948 - 1952
BROOKER, Stephen John
1934 - 2024, Late of Waikato
Wellington College: 1948 - 1951
HARRIS, Bernard (Bernie) Te Uira
1935 - 2024, Late of Wellington
Wellington College: 1948 - 1951
WARD, Barry Edwin
1934 - 2024, Late of Bay of Plenty
Wellington College: 1948 - 1952
WEAKLEY, Brian Burnett
1934 - 2024, Late of Canterbury
Wellington College: 1948 - 1950
WHITEHEAD, Terence Robert (Bob)
1935 - 2023, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1948 - 1953 1st XI Hockey, Ret. W/C RNZAF
CLASS OF 1954
CAULTON, Ralph Walter 0
1937 - 2024, Late of Nelson
Wellington College: 1950 - 1954
WILLIAMS, Thomas David
1936 - 2024 Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1950 - 1953 Firth House
CLASS OF 1955
ANSON, Graham Clifford
1937 - 2024, Late of England
Wellington College: 1954 - 1954
LAURENSON CNZM QC, John Arthur 0 1937 - 2024, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1951 - 1955 Prefect
CLASS OF 1956
PARK, Ian Goddard
1938 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1952 - 1954
SHEEHY, Thomas (Tom) Charles
1939 - 2024, Late of Kapiti
Wellington College: 1952 - 1955
CLASS OF 1957
EAGLES, Bruce Francis
1938 - 2024, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1953 - 1954
CLASS OF 1958
HERBERT, John Greig
1941 - 2024 Late of Bay of Plenty Wellington College: 1955 - 1958 Firth House
PAYNE, Godfrey Richard Bernard 1941 - 2024, Late of NSW Wellington College: 1957
TROTMAN, Ian Gladstone 1954 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1954 - 1958
CLASS OF 1960
CUTTANCE, Gary Paul 1943 - 2024, Late of Wairarapa Wellington College: 1956 - 1959
SMITH, Robert Murray 0
1943 - 2024, Late of South Australia Wellington College: 1956 - 1960
TAYLOR, Garrick (Garry) John 1943 - 2024, Late of Auckland Wellington College: 1956 - 1959
USSHER, Brian Wilfred Hilder 1942 - 2024, Late of Horowhenua Wellington College: 1956 - 1958 Firth House
CLASS OF 1961
McKEOWN, Phillip John 1943 - 2024, Late of Wairarapa Wellington College: 1957 - 1959
MORRISON, Lynn Geoffrey
1944 - 2024 Late of Bay of Plenty
Wellington College 1957 - 1961
CLASS OF 1962
FREED, Stephen Michael 1945 - 2024, Late of Nelson
Wellington College: 1958 - 1962
CLASS OF 1964
GIRDLESTONE, Roger John 1947 - 2024, Late of Wellington
Wellington College: 1960 - 1964
HILL, Robin Gilmer
1946 - 2024, Late of Otago
Wellington College: 1960 - 1963
CLASS OF 1967
TWIGDEN, David Howard
1950 - 2024, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1964 - 1967
CLASS OF 1968
BRIGGS, Michael Graham 1950 - 2024, Late of Marlborough
Wellington College: 1964 - 1967
CLASS OF 1969
STRATFORD, Peter David 1951 - 2023, Late of Auckland
Wellington College: 1968
TRAFFORD, Mark Du Bois 1951 - 2024, Late of Wairarapa
Wellington College: 1965 - 1968
Firth House
CLASS OF 1972
CRAWFORD, Robert John Muirhead 1954 - 2024, Late of Otago Wellington College: 1968 - 1972
CLASS OF 1975
MACLEAN, Donald James 1957 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1971 - 1974
CLASS OF 1978
VA’AI, Minisita Kesi 1958 - 2024, Late of Auckland Wellington College: 1974 - 1979 1st XV
CLASS OF 1985
BYRNE, Andrew Richard 1967 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1981 - 1984
CLASS OF 1995
O’BRIEN, Timothy Tekao 1976 - 2024, Late of NSW Wellington College: 1993 - 1995
CLASS OF 1997
BIRDSALL, Warwick 1979 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1993 - 1997 1st XV
CLASS OF 1998
McLAREN, Hamish John 1980 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1994 - 1998
STAFF
COCKBURN, Bruce 1934 - 2024, Late of Wellington Wellington College: 1955 - 1964
Obituaries
DOUGLAS WRIGHT published his autobiography, Tales of an Odd Job Scientist, in his 86th year, highlighting his humble yet extensive achievements. His son described him as practical and humble, with simple tastes.
Throughout his 69-year career, Doug worked across chemistry, agriculture, defense, conservation, food processing, and nutrition. He taught at Lincoln College and Waikato Institute of Technology, and in his 70s gave public lectures on diverse topics. He was a Cold War researcher, UN worker, aviator, and humanitarian.
Doug excelled in sports, representing New Zealand in tennis and table tennis. A talented painter and writer, he published multiple volumes of family history, an autobiography, short stories, a book of cartoons and poems, and a novel. He was a Justice of the Peace and received a gold medal for community service from Hamilton City Council.
Born on January 4, 1931, in Auckland, Doug was educated at Wellington College before attending Victoria University and Otago University, where he completed his BSc in 1952. He later earned MSc and PhD degrees. In 1955, he joined the New Zealand Defence Science Corps, researching chemical and biological weapons during the Cold War and served as a Flight Lieutenant.
Doug married Kathleen Cleland in 1956, with whom he had two sons. He studied at McGill University in 1960 and returned to New Zealand as a senior lecturer at Lincoln College. In 1966, he joined Ruakura Research Station, pioneering the use of radioactive tracers in biological research.
In 1972, Doug worked in India for the UN, later collaborating with scientists in various developing countries. In 1979, he became assistant director of animal research at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, and later director of the Meat Industry Research Institute of New Zealand (MIRINZ).
Doug was active in professional
societies, holding leadership roles in the NZ Institute of Chemistry, the Nutrition Society of New Zealand, and the Royal Society of New Zealand. He retired in 1992 but continued contributing to scientific committees and advisory roles.
Doug pursued art and writing in retirement, producing acclaimed works. He received numerous awards, including the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Science and Technology Medal and was named a Companion of the NZ Order of Merit in 1999.
Douglas Wright passed away peacefully on April 1, leaving behind a legacy of scientific and community contributions. He is survived by his sons, stepchildren, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Doug, receiving the Royal Society of NZ Science and Technology Silver Medal from fellow Wellington College classmate, and the then Governor General, Sir Michael Hardie Boys.
BARRY BROOKS passed away peacefully, though unexpectedly, at his home in Waikanae. He is sadly missed by his three children and five grandchildren.
Barry was born in Karori, in a house in Firth Terrace. He attended Karori West School and, following this, he attended Wellington College, where he was always a very proud Old Boy and supporter of the school. He was honoured at an assembly a few years ago, with one of his two grandsons who also went through Wellington College proudly in attendance. After his time at Wellington College, he went on to attend Victoria University.
He then joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, in 1959, began his travels as a diplomat. After a posting on the original staff of the High Commission in Kuala Lumpur,
Malaya, as it was then known, he was transferred to Jakarta, Indonesia, where he had the good fortune to meet Joan Kermode. They were married in Indonesia 15 months later and remained very happily married for over 62 years, until Joan’s passing earlier this year.
Over the next 30 years, Barry continued working as a New Zealand diplomat, serving in the U.S., France, Fiji, Canada, India, Iraq, Chile, Peru and finally in Austria. In total, he lived in twelve countries, including New Zealand, and was New Zealand’s Ambassador or High Commissioner to 17 different countries – a fact he was deservedly proud of.
In 1991, Joan and Barry moved to Waikanae where they had over 30 enjoyable years, including over 15 years at Parkwood Retirement Village, and he served as Deputy Chairman of the Parkwood Trust Board for 25 years.
During his time in Waikanae, he undertook various pursuits including being elected as Chairman of the Waikanae Community Health Group for its first four years and lecturing part-time in international relations at the International Pacific College.
He had a passion for stamp collecting, music and sport (as a player and spectator), and in later life he became very interested in genealogy. Over the past 20 years, he and Joan very much enjoyed going on cruises and tours to different parts of the world.
Barry was a very good linguist, being fluent in English, French and Spanish, and he also had a good knowledge of German and Russian. He played a number of musical instruments and was involved in a number of choirs throughout his life. One highlight was singing in a choir at Madison Square Gardens in New York, when he was in a very good choir during his time in Ottawa. He was also a very good dancer, especially in his younger years, winning a gold medal for ball room dancing in 1958, the same year he won a gold medal for singing at the Wellington Competitions Festival.
He was always dedicated to family, including his three children and five grandchildren.
Obituaries
Former All Blacks wing RALPH CAULTON, late of Nelson, passed away at 87.
All Black #600, Ralph made 50 appearances between 1959 and 1964, playing 16 tests and 34 games, and scoring eight tries. Known for his speed, balance, and scoring ability, he was also an accomplished pianist.
Beyond his playing career, Ralph contributed significantly to rugby by coaching at his club, Pōneke, and serving as an administrator for both the Wellington RFU and the NZRFU.
In 2020, Ralph reminisced about his former teammate Terry Lineen, expressing gratitude for Lineen's bold strategy that launched his All Blacks test career. He recalled Lineen’s joking claim, I made you, to which Ralph would agree, acknowledging Lineen’s pivotal role in his memorable test debut against the British and Irish Lions at Athletic Park in Wellington in 1959. During his debut against the British and Irish Lions in 1959, Ralph became the first All Black since 1946 to score two tries in his first test, thanks to a cunning plan devised by Lineen. He also scored two tries in the third test in Christchurch.
Interestingly, Ralph was the Wellington College Long Jump Champion in 1954 but never played for the 1st XV, being in the 2A team instead.
The Chief Justice, the Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann, paid tribute on behalf of New Zealand’s judiciary to the Hon JOHN LAURENSON CNZM KC, who passed away in July, aged 86.
Justice Laurenson served on the NZ High Court from July 1997 to September 2005, also sitting regularly in the Divisional Courts of the Court of Appeal. He had a down-to-earth style as a judge - he was practical and to the point in his management of hearings and trials. He was polite and scrupulously fair to all who came before his court, and kind to those in need of support. He was a man of great humanity
With his extensive experience before the courts as counsel, he was asked to handle some of the more demanding trial assignments, including the first case in recent history (Operation Mexico) where a jury was sequestered for the entire duration of a trial - 17 days. He was a thoughtful and gifted mentor to many, with newer judges often seeking out his wise counsel on points of procedure or trial management
Following retirement from the bench, Justice Laurenson provided judicial service in the Pacific as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Tonga in 2007 and 2009. He also served as acting Chief Justice of Tonga for a short period.
Justice Laurenson graduated with an LLB in 1961 from Victoria University. He was a partner in the legal firm of Govett Quilliam in New Plymouth from 1962 to 1988 and was Crown Solicitor in that firm from 1970 to 1988, responsible for the region’s Crown prosecutions.
He was considered an outstanding Crown Solicitor and prosecuted in many of the significant trials of the day. In 1989 he was appointed Taranaki's first Queen’s Counsel in 70 years. He was the President of the Taranaki District Law Society in 1979, Vice President of the New Zealand Law Society in 1983, and a member of the New Zealand Law Society Appeal Board in 1987.
Beyond that, his reputation in the profession was such that he was asked to serve on public inquiries
and public bodies. He was on a Committee of Inquiry under the Health Act 1956 in 1990, Chairman of the Police Disciplinary Tribunal in 1995, Hearing Commissioner under the Resource Management Act 1991 in 1996, and a member of the Serious Fraud Office prosecution board in 1990-1997. He was also the Chairperson and Vice Chair of various education, health, sport and legal advice committees. As a devoted rugby fan, he chaired both the NZ Rugby Union Judicial Committee and Appeal Council in 1994-1996, and the Taranaki Rugby Football Union's Appeal Committee.
He served as Chair of the Brooklands Kindergarten Committee, Vogeltown School Committee, and New Plymouth Citizens Advice Bureau Trust. He was also Vice Chair and Chair of the New Plymouth Boys’ High School Board (1978-1984), a trustee of the Taranaki Scanner Trust, and Chair and Director of Powerco (1996-1997).
John also had an abiding affection for Wellington College
Justice Laurenson is survived by his wife, Helen, and by his three sons Peter, David and Andrew, his eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
The Hon. John Laurenson receiving the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) from the Governor-General, Sir Anand Satyanand GNZM QSO in 2009 for services as a Judge of the High Court of New Zealand.
All Black #600 Ralph Caulton is capped by NZRU President John Sturgeon in 2009.
Obituaries
Seventy years ago, a young ROBERT SMITH, travelling on the Houghton Bay bus, caught sight of a Wellington College student in ‘full dress uniform and magnificent black blazer with gold stripes’. An impressed 11-yearold Robert longed ‘to be in that boy's shoes’. Two years later, in 1956, his wish was fulfilled when he proudly walked up the drive to Wellington College wearing his own dress uniform to begin his new school life in 3ShB.
Looking back over the years, Robert recalled many happy memories of his time at Wellington College, some of which he shared in a contribution to The Lampstand in 2016, as above, as he made plans to travel from Australia to attend the 150th celebrations in 2017.
Robert worked hard at his studies, particularly history, biology, geography and English, and he enjoyed sporting activities, such as rugby, athletics (especially sprinting), cricket and boxing. He was a keen sergeant cadet in the days when school boys not only marched and drilled to order, but learned how to handle a .303 rifle and to disassemble a Bren Gun, no doubt a sign of the times in postwar years. In his spare time, Robert enjoyed spear fishing in Lyall Bay, regularly donning his heavy wet gear to catch crayfish to take home to his family. He helped his father in his photography business in Manners Street during holidays and weekends, borrowing his father’s Leica camera take snaps on school Athletics Days.
Robert came from a large family, the only one to succeed academically and gain university entrance. It is fair to say that Wellington College changed his life, providing new opportunities and a pathway to success, and he worked diligently towards his goals.
Robert studied law at Victoria University, Wellington, while working as a Law Clerk during his qualifying years, and he earned his LLB in 1968. He worked as a solicitor in Upper Hutt and Wellington, still playing rugby in his spare time, and never losing his love of the game. He relocated to Australia in 1970 to take up a corporate solicitor position at a company outside Melbourne, also
running his own practice.
Robert spent his working life in the law for the next 30 years, moving on to Government legal work in a variety of positions, including law reform and administrative law. Robert had two papers published in Australian Law journals and was a keen proponent of Plain English in the law.
For relaxation, Robert kept up his love of running and fitness over many decades, and he completed two marathons in his mid-years, as well as competing in shorter events later on.
Robert retired to Adelaide in 1999, and he enjoyed a long and happy retirement by the sea for the next 25 years. There, he was able to indulge his enthusiasm for daily runs along the beach most days, as well as joining the local ‘Icebergers’ in chilly early morning dips for a while. Robert took a keen interest in international sport, especially athletics and rugby, and followed the All Blacks closely over the years.
Robert read widely in his areas of interest, which included medical research, health and well-being, the origins of life and the universe, biographies and current affairs. He loved the ever-changing seasons and observing birdlife, whether in the garden, nature reserves or imposing squadrons of pelicans often encountered on his beach runs.
Hey, former 1st XI Hockey Players!
WIn his last decade, Robert’s major interest turned to writing poetry, rediscovering a love of words which became a vehicle to express thoughts on his philosophy of life and the natural world. He joined on-line international poetry groups, and appreciated feedback on his poems, which can still be found on the allpoetry.com site today. He contributed to an edited anthology, a source of great pride. With his love of history, Robert also spent many years researching his family background and created an extensive family tree dating back centuries, including his mother’s Scottish family who migrated to Dunedin in the mid-1800s
Robert died, at home, in March 2024 aged 81, after a long illness, supported by palliative care, and cared for by his loving wife Jennifer, to whom he was married for 47 years. He died with dignity and grace, and stoic acceptance of his terminal condition. Robert showed great determination, resilience, integrity and fair-mindedness all his life, values instilled in his schoolboy years at Wellington College and carried throughout his long life. He was dearly loved and is sadly missed by all who knew him.
Robert was a life member of WCOBA. His wife Jennifer would love to hear from anyone who is able to share memories of Robert, and may be contacted at jenny.sadler@hotmail.com
e’re on a mission to complete our album and database of all former 1st XI Hockey Teams for our website. However, we’re missing team photos from the years 1969, 1974, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1997, 1999, 2000, and 2001. All other years are accounted for. We at least have a photocopies of the missing teams, but having an original copy to scan would be so much better.
If you were part of any of these teams and still have your team photo, we’d love to borrow it to scan, or you can email us a high-resolution scan. Help us preserve our history and showcase the legacy of our hockey teams, which have been a key part of our sports curriculum since 1936. Email: oldboys@ wc.school.nz if you can help.
The Archives
Archivist, Mike Pallin uncovers the origins of the Wellington College Navy League and its medals and shield.
The New Zealand Navy League was established in 1896 to influence public thinking on maritime matters and create an interest in the sea.
Many New Zealand schools became sub-branches of the Navy League. Wellington College was one such school and involved since the late 1890s. Most students were part of the sub group and were involved in a number of associated activities. College students were invited to make regular visits to visiting warships from various countries. One such visit is recorded in the 1906 Wellingtonian when 300 College students visited the Australian flagship H.M.S. Powerful.
ARROW-CIRCLE-RIGHT This Archives colourised photo was taken on the occasion of the visit.
From 1905 to 1944 an essay competition was held by the Navy League, and the winning Wellington College entry was recorded on the board (photograph below) which is on display in the College Archives Museum.
The copper plaque in the centre of the board commemorates the 1805 Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. 1905 marked the centenary of Trafalgar. One major preparation for the centennial year was the restoration of HMS VICTORY, Nelson’s flagship. Funds were raised for the many special activities and events by selling memorabilia (medals, badges, busts, etc.) made using VICTORY’s recycled copper hull sheeting. ‘Victory Shields’ were made available to schools throughout the Empire (at a cost of £5, 5s each) by the British & Foreign Sailors’ Society (B.F.F.S.), to be awarded annually to a successful student.
ATHE NAVY LEAGUE
t the beginning of the term, the school branch of the Navy League paid a visit to the “H.M.S. Powerful”, the fine new flagship of the Australian squadron. A special half-holiday was granted and the “Janie Seddon” was chartered to take us out. The afternoon was spent in an interesting examination of all the bewildering equipment of a modern man-of-war. Great courtesy was shown by the officers and men who cheerfully answered the many and varied queries with which the boys plied them. On leaving the ship again, hearty cheers were given for the Admiral, the officers and the men of the “Powerful”.
ARROW-CIRCLE-LEFT The ‘HMS Victory’ centennial shield was an embossed copper plaque with Great Britain’s coat of arms, two shields reading ‘British & Foreign Sailors’ Society’ and ‘From the Lords of the Admiralty,’ and a central roundel showing the famous battleship and ‘ER VII.’ It included ribbons inscribed ‘Copper from Nelson’s Victory’ and ‘Centenary Memento October 21, 1905.’ Wellington College held their annual Navy League student essay competition around Trafalgar Day, October 21.
ARROW-CIRCLE-RIGHT Colourised photo from Trafalgar Day commemoration at Wellington College, 1921. (L-R): BrigadierGeneral Richardson, Major General Sir Edward Chaytor, J P Firth (Headmaster 1892 - 1920), Dr Elliot (Old Boys’ Association) obscured, Governor General Viscount Jellicoe, Major T R Cresswell (Headmaster), T Y Seddon M.P. (Old Boy), George Stephens (student).
Wellington College regularly held, during the early 1900s, a Cadet Parade to commemorate Trafalgar Day (also referred to as Nelson Day) on 21 October, with visiting dignitaries including members of the Armed Forces and the Navy League.
THE NAVY LEAGUE MEDAL Students could also be awarded the Navy league Medal. The one shown here belonged to Edward Gifford, Old Boy 1922 – 1926, who was Deputy Head Prefect in 1926. Edward, son of Wellington College teacher and astronomer Algernon Charles Gifford, attended Otago University, earning a rugby blue and graduating in 1932. He was a house surgeon at Cook Hospital before moving to England in 1934, holding surgical posts at Mile End, West London, and Queen Mary’s Hospitals. After appointments at Kent and Sussex Hospital, the Royal Cancer Hospital, and completing fellowship courses at Middlesex and Guy’s, he obtained his FRCS in 1938. Returning to New Zealand, he became surgeon superintendent at Thames Hospital and was elected FRACS in 1949
In 1946, Edward moved to Auckland, starting private practice
and becoming an assistant surgeon at Auckland Hospital, retiring as senior surgeon in 1974 but continuing privately until 1984. He was instrumental in the Auckland Division of the Cancer Society, developing the cancer detection centre, and served as President of the Auckland Division (1976-79), the Cancer Society of New Zealand (1978-80), the Auckland Division of the New Zealand Medical Association, and the Auckland Wine and Food Society. In 1981, he was appointed honorary surgeon to the Queen. Edward died in 1985.
Source: NZ Med J 1985, 98, 511-512. The Royal College of Surgeons of Australasia.
Far Left: A close-up of the centre of the Navy Shield.
ARROW-CIRCLE-LEFT The medal is on display in our Archives Museum along with many other medals Edward won for numerous athletics events. He was also a member of the 1st XV.
ARROW-CIRCLE-UP Trafalgar Day 1921. Inspection of the Wellington College Cadet Corps by Viscount Jellicoe (colourised).
ARROW-CIRCLE-LEFT
The Archives
We asked the Archives team to showcase a few of our most oldest items of treasure found in the Museum.
ARROW-CIRCLE-UP The inaugural register of the Wellington Grammar School in beautiful penmanship, with its first eight admissions recorded with 1 of George McDonald (1854 - 1877) on 4 February, 1867. No further record on George has been found, (due to the fact he died aged 23). 2 Alfred de Bath Brandon, (1854-1938) (whose father was Chairman of the Wellington College Governors) went on to become Mayor of Wellington in 1894, his son (also Arthur) was a distinguished and decorated pilot in WWI. 3 Charles Featherston (1856 - 1924) died in Buenos Aires where he resided as a sheep farmer, and 4 William Featherston (1857 - 1879) died aged 22 in England, both sons of Isaac Featherston, a doctor and politician. 5 Charles Wilkinson (1857 - 1927) went on to become a farmer and died in Nelson. 6 Ernest Snow (1855 - 1946) went on to become a farmer and died in Auckland of pneumonia aged 90 after a mid-winter swim. Ernest was the Old Boy who provided from memory, a sketch of the original school and football grounds. 7 Richard Kilgour (1857 - 1940) was a sharebroker and died in Thames. 8 John Bishop (1856 - 1942) was a well-known sportsman. He was a keen yachtsman, a member of the Star Boating Club, and a representative player for Wellington Rugby football. He was also a foundation member of the Wellington Chess Club.
This tobacco jar (along with similar items including fruit bowls and candlesticks) were made from rimu timber taken from the 1874 East School when it was demolished in 1931. The timber was also used to make a set of chairs for stage seating in the Memorial Hall and for personal purchase by Old Boys.
CIRCLE-ARROW-DOWN First Prize for History, awarded in 1869 to Donald Cameron (1868-1870) by Headmaster, T A Bowden.
ARROW-CIRCLE-LEFT Our oldest Rugby Cap 1894, belonging to Oscar Kember 1892 - 1896.
CIRCLE-ARROW-DOWN
ARROW-CIRCLE-UP 1877 Plan of Wellington College and surrounding area: Notes: Public Recreation Ground (The Basin Reserve). No Patterson Street or Mount Victoria Tunnel (built 1931), No Government House (or driveway). No. 1 Rugby Field is a swamp. ‘College’ is the East School, the first building on the site. ‘Church’ is St Mark’s. Plot 5 is the future site for Wellington East Girls’ College.
ARROW-CIRCLE-RIGHT This historic watercolour by Christopher Aubrey was painted in 1889, the original is held by Wellington College. 1,100 were printed and each print is individually numbered. These were first offered for sale in 1984 and following a tidy up in the Archives, we found a good number in storage. Hence sales will assist the Archives in on-going upkeep and recording the photographs and memorabilia collections. You can order a numbered copy of the print by emailing oldboys@wc.school.nz The print in 1984 was $25.00we are pleased to say the price will remain the same, however to post out in domestic mail, in a secure tube the total cost for the print plus postage and packaging is $35.00. Please contact us for International postage rates.
ARROW-CIRCLE-UP The predecessor to the Wellingtonian. A record of the 1886 prizewinners.
CIRCLE-ARROW-DOWN The inaugural record of students, staff, scholarship winners, and sports teams results from 1867 - 1883. Read it HERE.
We will feature further treasures in our end-of-year Lampstand. Please let us know if there is an item you wish to see in detail. You are also most welcome to come and visit the Archives and see these and many of the other items on display.
oldboys@wc.school.nz
The Archives
“For a school without a swimming pool for some years, we still outperform other schools in local and national competitions, produce Olympians and Commonwealth Games entrants, and hold a number of national records.” Martin Vaughan, Swimming Convener 1983 - 2020. Wellingtonian, 1983
Wellington College Swimming Baths: A Legacy of Service and Evolution
The first mention of swimming baths at Wellington College appears in the April 1898 issue of the Wellingtonian. It proudly announced the nearing completion of The splendid baths which Mr. H.D. Bell so very generously presented to the College as a memorial to his late son Frank (who died July 5, 1897, aged 15). With the main bath finished, the contractor was erecting a fence and dressing sheds, ensuring readiness for the next term.
included an artist's impression of a covered-in baths, reflecting serious consideration for pool coverage and heating.
H.D. Bell, who served as Mayor of Wellington in 1892-93 and again in 1897, gifted the Francis Bell Memorial Baths to the College. Situated where the Old Boys' Gymnasium now stands, the baths served the school for over half a century. Measuring 23 x 10 metres, with depths ranging from 0.9 to 2 metres, they featured tiles, fencing, dressing rooms, and a springboard. The baths debuted during the 1899 Swimming Sports, replacing the previously used Te Aro Baths.
However, by 1954, the Wellingtonian noted the baths' inadequacies, exacerbated by a long hot summer. Built for a school of 280 boys, the aging baths were leaking 6,000 gallons of water weekly. By early 1955, a dangerous bulge in the west wall prompted their demolition. The Old Boys' Association planned new baths as a War Memorial at the southern end of the hockey ground.
Decommissioned in 1956, and all previous records, having been set in a 25 yards pool, now lapsed. The College hosted its Swimming Sports at the Thorndon Baths from 1955 to 1957. On November 16, 1958, the new baths were inaugurated by Mr. J. L. Dighton, a dedicated Wellington College teacher involved in swimming and lifesaving. Measuring 30.17 x 13.72 metres, the new baths were spacious, deep, and equipped with all necessary amenities. Dighton suggested terracing and turfing the surrounding bank to complete the area.
The real initiation of the new pool came with the annual swimming sports on December 5, 1958, marking the first oncampus event since 1954. Despite a chilly southerly wind, the boys' enthusiasm remained high, with the natural grandstand on the southern side, though ungrassed, accommodating the spectators. In subsequent years, the Baths' value diminished due to the rise of indoor pools, remoteness, and vandalism. The 1968 Wellingtonian
By 1976, Engineers conducted a detailed study on heating the pool, including solar heating possibilities. In 1977, the Wellingtonian lamented the pool's limited use due to weather conditions, advocating for coverage or heating to enhance its utility. A 1983 report by Martin Vaughan, the College’s swimming convenor, recommended covering and heating the pool, altering its dimensions, and upgrading facilities. Despite a redevelopment report estimating a cost of $341,000, by 1986, the Wellingtonian reported the Department of Education condemning the pool as inadequate.
The preliminary rounds of the last Swimming Sports were held at Wellington College in midFebruary, 1985 in somewhat chilly, hypothermic conditions. Freyberg Pool and the Wellington Aquatic Centre would become welcome respites for our swimmers.
Hopes for upgrading and covering the pool persisted, yet no further action was taken. The pool remained empty and neglected until its demolition in 1997.
Originally written by Ted Clayton.
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1 Wellington College swimming sports, circa 1920s. 2 Staff line up for their swimming race, circa 1935. 3 The new pool being constructed, circa 1930. 4 The new baths, circa 1960s. 5 Swimming Sports Day, circa 1960s. 6 Swimming Sports Day, 1960. 7 The debilitated baths, 1995 from the outside. 8 The view from the inside of the defunct baths, 1995.
Memories
We received an enquiry from Heather Kyle, daughter of Hugh Mackenzie (Class of 1937) of some medals that she found belonging to her father. Following a response from the Archives, Heather then shared some pages from her father’s diary of which we share some excerpts with our readers.
I usually caught the 8.30am double-decker tram, that started from Wakefield Park with the first stop right outside our front door. After travelling through Newtown, my destination was the Basin Reserve, where it was only a short walk to the driveway of the Governor General's residence - two uniformed policemen were always stationed at the gates. The adjacent driveway led to Wellington College.
In 1934, I joined the College Orchestra with Mr Meyer as music tutor, and played 1st and 2nd violin and viola parts with around ten others who played a variety of other instruments. It was a most rewarding experience to be part of the School Orchestra and to be guided by such a patient and understanding teacher.
In the Military Cadet Company, I was promoted to Platoon Corporal (two stripes) in the College Battalion which included the carrying of an Instruction Cane under my left armpit when on parade and I had to learn a strange, "King's Regulations” military vocabulary to command the twenty-cadets in platoon activities. Here is an example, “Platoon, Attention (atten-shun). Right dress! Platoon will move to the right in column of threes. Right turn (one stop two). By the left, quick march. Left, right, left, right, left, right, etc." Note. The discipline demanded that the platoon would keep on going until you commanded them to stop, so you had to "have your wits about you'' and know what to say next. Otherwise, they would keep on going, no matter what the obstacle might be and probably end up in a heap, or an undisciplined rabble.
In rifle shooting, I was selected to be Fire Leader for the College team in the Press Challenge Rifle Shooting Competitions for secondary schools in New Zealand. Each Saturday, a group of College shooters would travel by tram to Trentham carrying the College
issued .303 rifles (fitted with .22 Morris tubes) for practice. I was awarded a red arm-badge with gold crossed rifles as British Isles Marksman.
One morning, as I went to College, dressed in Military Cadet uniform, I alighted from the double-decker tram stop, and as I was crossing the road, I was photographed by a newspaper reporter and consequently found that the picture was prominent on the front page of the Evening Post, together with an article about School Cadet training.
In 1935, for College weekly ‘Club’ activities, I chose boxing classes in the gymnasium with Fred Barnes as sparring partner and learned
the art of self-defence. Many years later, Fred became a leading Radio Announcer and Television Presenter for ‘Country Calendar’ - the weekly farming programme featured on TV ONE.
I then developed an interest in the Model Aeroplane Club which was also held in the gymnasium as the space was suitable for indoor flight experiments and was shielded from the fierce Westerly winds that seem to pervade Wellington at very frequent intervals.
Later I joined the Rugby Football Club and quickly learned that being trodden upon with boots that had long leather or metal sprigs, boring boles in my back while I lay ‘winded’, gasping for breath at the bottom of the ‘heap’ with no ball in sight, was not my perception of a friendly game, nor was I impressed with the idea of thirty frenzied players chasing a ball that failed to bounce in any predictable direction because of its oval shape. How much frustration can a fellow put up with?
Hugh’s Story
After completing his time at Wellington College, Hugh worked at the BNZ Bank in Wellington for about three years. He decided to change his career and train as a school teacher. In January 1941, he was appointed as a pupil-teacher at Korora School, north of Masterton.
However, he was there for only a month before receiving ballot papers for war service and heading to Trentham Camp for military training.
Hugh joined the 25th Battalion 2nd Expeditionary Force. On April 7, 1941, he and 200 other soldiers boarded the T.S.S. Mauretania, part of a convoy of five troop ships, and sailed out of Wellington Harbour. The ships arrived at Port Tewfik in the Suez Canal on May 15, 1941. His battalion was based in the Middle East and Italy for four years. Hugh documented his wartime experiences in a detailed diary, complete with photos he took on his Kodak Folding Brownie. Disliking the idea of killing, he joined the Signals Platoon.
Returning to New Zealand in 1945, Hugh attended Wellington Teachers’ Training College. During this time, he met Joyce Gigg, and they married in December 1947. Over the next eight years, they did their “country service,” teaching at Kaihu School in Northland and Huiakama School along the Forgotten Highway in Taranaki. They had three children, two girls and one boy. In 1956, the family moved to Wanganui, where they stayed for the rest of their lives, adding another boy to the family in 1960
From 1965 to 1974, Joyce taught at Wanganui Girls’ College, while Hugh taught at Carlton Primary School for 40 years. He was a member of the R.S.A., attending the dawn services each year, and an active member of the CB Radio Club. Both Hugh and Joyce were members of the Clan Mackenzie NZ Society. Hugh compiled a booklet on speaking and writing the Scottish Gaelic language and gave lessons to interested people. His grandfather, also named Hugh Mackenzie, was one of the founding professors at Victoria University Wellington (1899-1936) and spoke only Gaelic at home while teaching English at the university.
Hugh was skilled at fixing things, spending many hours repairing old valve radios, televisions, and other items. During his retirement, he took up winding electrical transformers for various machines, an older method of repair, and found great satisfaction in this work. Hugh and Joyce enjoyed many travel excursions around New Zealand with their caravan. They were blessed with 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Hugh was deeply saddened by the death of his beloved wife in 2009. Five years later, in his 95th year, Hugh passed away in May 2014. Lovingly written by Hugh Mackenzie’s daughter, Heather Kyle.
The Boards are back!
It is truly heartening to see the return of the cherished and historic Scholarship Boards to the Hall after a ten-year hiatus. This week, the Archives and Property teams have diligently worked to install the boards in chronological order, bringing a sense of history back to these hallowed walls. More will be added over the next few weeks, as will the Marble Tablets.
The first scholarship ever awarded, the Walter Turnbull Endowment Scholarship, was granted to C.S. Brandon in 1875. Although the Levin Scholarship was announced in 1874, it was not awarded until several years later. Following this, the Rhodes Scholarship was awarded to W.H. Field in 1878, and the Moore Scholarship was awarded to H.B. Harvey in 1879.
These boards tell the stories of our past, and many early recipients went on to become distinguished citizens of Wellington and New Zealand. There is a rich history embedded in these walls, and it is wonderful to see our Old Boys' names preserved and honoured once more
Memories
A lengthy letter from J. E. (Kahu) Pattison [I], (Class of 1957) of Hawkes Bay arrived, filled with special memories from his time in Firth House. Due to space constraints, we can’t include all his anecdotes, but you can read Kahu’s full recollection by clicking HERE.
Sam Meads, the Senior Mouse Master of our time, had an uncanny knack for knowing everything happening at Firth House. He would quietly slip into dorms after lights out, roam the house at all hours, or set traps for culprits. It was almost impossible not to run into him at any hour. If he overheard something he shouldn't, he would extract the information from the unfortunate student, who usually confessed. Sam was highly regarded and notoriously hard to deceive. He often boasted about knowing everything that went on within Firth House, though J.K. Watson would tease him with, “You don’t know Cell 6B, Sir.” Sam always dismissed this as a joke.
It was a place that we could call our own and during the winter was a warm and cosy residence if only a little dusty. The boiler room was the base for the water heating in Firth House that had many water radiators for heating the lower floor. Prep Rooms, Studies, Master’s room and office amongst others. It was driven by a coke ( the other variety was unknown to us then) boiler that needed to be stoked a few times a day. A perk of this job was the endless supply of bread and butter from the kitchen, allowing us to make toast anytime.
However, maintaining the radiators was a downside. When they malfunctioned, we had to bleed them to fix airlocks. During one
FIRTH HOUSE PREFECTS: 1957
ROW: R. E.
W.
J.
of these maintenance tasks, we discovered a trap door under the linoleum in a prefect's cell. Just as we were looking down into the dark space, Sam appeared. In a hurry, he asked, "What’s down there?" We replied, "Not very much," and he left. Knowing Sam, we expected he would return to investigate.
After he left, we informed a senior student, who ensured nothing personal was left in the hidden room. A few days later, Sam explored the trap door, which led to a concealed room about ten feet by ten feet. Here, he discovered a full-blown still and the missing
glassware from the school labs. Despite his efforts, Sam couldn't find out who was responsible, as everyone claimed ignorance. Eventually, he gave up. "Welcome to Cell 6B, Sir!"
While sorting through boxes in the Archives, Mike Pallin stumbled upon a large, cherished card. It was a heartfelt memento, signed by the former Firth House Boarders during the emotional farewell event that marked the bitter-sweet closure of Firth House.
BACK
Allan,
R. Harris, M. E. Neill. FRONT ROW: J. H. C. Wong,
H. Williams (Deputy Head), J. E. Pattison (Head), J. M. Rankin.
ARROW-CIRCLE-RIGHT
Lord Freyberg’s final resting place - a tranquil scene
Gavin Gardiner (Class of 1959) wrote to us from Harrow, England.
I have been meaning for a long time now to visit Old Boy, Lord Freyberg’s grave. It’s near Guildford in Surrey.
I worked at the Royal Surrey County Hospital for two years both as a Registrar and later as a Senior Registrar. I thought I knew the area quite well but I now realise that I don’t. St Martha’s on the Hill is not easy to find. It wasn’t on my satnav and Google maps weren’t much help. However after asking locals I knew I was getting closer.
The Pilgrim’s Way runs east and west along the north downs and the Church is on top. You approach via a very narrow winding uphill road and park about a mile away and walk the last bit. It’s worth the effort. The views are spectacular all around and the Church is very
pretty. We have had a terrible persistently wet spring but this day was just wonderful. A beautiful late spring day, a cloudless blue sky and the lush green of the woods making it a very memorable expedition.
I’m so glad I went. The grave was easy to find. Lord Freyberg is buried there with his wife and son. I suspect he knew this site well. They often walked the hills around Wellington. I remember seeing
him walking with his wife when he was Governor General, once in Khandallah Park and a couple of times around the hills overlooking Wellington Harbour.
Here are a couple of pictures I took. It is a very fitting resting place for a man who achieved so much and one held in such high esteem by our old school and its nation.
Kind regards, Gavin Gardiner
1984: The Opening of the Renouf Sports Centre
The WELLINGTONIAN, 1984: THE IDEA OF A SPORTS CENTRE
The Sports Centre constructed on the Old Firth House site, has been built to remedy the inadequate physical education facilities that the school has endured for a number of years. The centre will cater for the wider community, as well as for the specific recreational and physical education needs of the boys of Wellington College.
The idea of a Sports Centre was first considered in 1979 and by 1982 the Education Department had granted approval for the project and fundraising then began in earnest. On 1 July 1983, the then Prime Minister, Sir Robert Muldoon, turned the first earth to begin the building project officially. The generous contribution of time and money from Board Members, Old Boys, parents, and friends of the school made the Sports Centre a reality and the opening celebration such a fitting culmination of an ambitious project.
THE OPENING CELEBRATION
T3 ‘Celebrity guests included Old Boy, Keith Quinn (Class of 1964), Jeremy Coney and John Dybvig. 4 Action at last - PE Teacher, Brien McCrea sets up the Volleyball nets. 5 The gym is finally in use. 1 2 3 4 5
he weekend celebrations began with a champagne breakfast on Friday, 28 September. Well known civic, business and sporting personalities attended the breakfast which was broadcast live on Lindsay Yeo's 2ZB radio programme. In the afternoon, the Centre was officially opened by the Governor General, Sir David Beattie. That evening there was a cocktail function in the College Hall while on Saturday, tours of the school and Sports Centre were conducted. A successful celebration ball was held at the Michael Fowler Centre on Saturday night while celebrations concluded with a dedication service on Sunday morning.
1 Headmaster, Harvey Rees Thomas at the opening ceremony. 2 The newly opened Renouf Sports Centre in 1984.
'I thought this day would never arrive'. Harvey Rees-Thomas, the Headmaster replies to His Excellency, Sir David Beattie’s address.
ANZAC Service
At our ANZAC Service held at Wellington College, we were honoured by the presence of five distinguished Old Boys who have served or are currently serving in the Defence Forces. Alongside them, we welcomed fellow Old Boys, and friends with connections to our Old Boy community.
Following a deeply-moving service, our guests gathered at the Archives for refreshments and an opportunity to view the WWI Crosses.
Prior to the service, the Archives team comprising Mike Pallin, Gary, and Abbey Girvan dedicated considerable effort to reinstate the memorial crosses honouring the Old Boys who perished in WWI. Initially crafted by Rob Anderson for the WWI Commemorations and enriched with insights from students, each cross was meticulously prepared to commemorate an individual Old Boy
Upon conducting an inventory, Mike discovered a number of crosses missing. Through collective efforts, they successfully replaced them and positioned the crosses along the path leading to the Archives, providing a poignant space for current students to contemplate on. Excavating holes for over 220 crosses was certainly no small task, and we extend our thanks to the team for ensuring the enduring remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in WWI.
ARROW-CIRCLE-LEFT We extend our gratitude to (from right to left): Colonel Kent Collard, Squadron Leader Mike Ward, Major Rupert Randall, Lieutenant Benson Oosterbaan, Major James Martin, and our Headmaster, Glen Denham.
Reunions: Class of 2004
The Class of 2004 20 Years On Reunion was such a fun weekend. It was amazing to see so many familiar faces again and at some points it honestly felt like being back in time.
We were lucky to be welcomed back to our old school by Deputy Head Prefect, Harry Law who said a few words and then a powerful haka by a number of students. After a few words from current staff member, Mark Tinkle and Headmaster, Glen Denham we were treated to a quick tour around the school admiring some of the buildings that have been erected since we left. One of the lads was surprised to see his artwork he did in 2003 was still on display in the hallway outside the library! Hasn't anyone done any artwork in 20 years? One of the group asked. We then headed down to Panhead Bar for the rest of the evening. We were lucky enough to have former Deputy Principal, Rob Anderson join us for some rich conversations. According to the bar manager, Panhead broke their sales record for a Friday night during the winter season thanks to our patronage.
On Saturday afternoon, a few of the cohort headed out to Upper Hutt to watch the 1st XV scrape out a win over HIBS. That evening, a smaller group had dinner at the Old Boy, Jono Cox’s 1852 Pub & Kitchen in Brooklyn, catching up on the night before as well as the last 20 years. Bring on the 30 Year Reunion! Mark Tinkle, Class of 2004
Old Boys in the News
Hélas, pas de médailles cette fois.
Matt
Class of 2019 Football
WNick Hogan Class of 2008 7s Referee
e were proud to spotlight our exceptional Old Boys who proudly represented on the world stage at the 2024 Olympics.
Hockey - Jake Smith returned for his second Olympic appearance after debuting in Tokyo 2020. The Blacksticks did not go past pool-play.
Rowing - Phillip Wilson, who won Gold in Tokyo 2020 as part of the Men's Eight, competed in the
Lukas Kelly-Heald Class of 2022 Football
Class of 2017 Samoa: 7s
Men’s Pair alongside Dan Williamson. The pair came fourth in the semifinal and did not proceed into the finals.
We had a strong Wellington College presence in Football at this Olympic Games, with four Old Boys named in the New Zealand Team.
Lukas Kelly-Heald (Wellington Phoenix, All Whites), Matt Garbett (NAC Breda, Netherlands), Sam Sutton (Wellington Phoenix, All Whites and
his second Olympic Games), Alby Kelly-Heald (Wellington Phoenix) (non-travelling reserve).
New Zealand finish third in the group play behind France and the USA and above Guinea whom they beat in their opening match.
Samoa Sevens - Tom Maiava, who played in our 1st XV was selected to represent Samoa in 7s. He debuted for Samoa 7s at the Pacific Games in 2023 where he took home a silver medal. Samoa
finished in tenth place.
Official - Last year, Nick Hogan officiated at the Quadrangular Rugby Tournament at Wellington College. We were thrilled to see him on the international stage, refereeing Rugby Sevens at the Olympic Tournament.
Roll on to the 2028 Olympics to be held in Los Angeles. The 2026 Commonwealth Games’ destination has yet to be determined.
MC Property is a commercial real estate agency started by Sam McIlroy (Class of 1997) in early 2023. Sam has been working as a commercial agent in Wellington for nearly 20 years and has taken current student, Hugo Holt on under the Gateway Programme run by Wellington College. Hugo works one day a week with Sam learning about the commercial property industry. https://www. mcpropertygroup.co.nz/
Garbett
Tom Maiava
Jake Smith Class of 2009 Hockey
Sam Sutton Class of 2019 Football
Phillip Wilson Class of 2014 Rowing
Honoured by the King Old Boys in the News
Warmest congratulations to three of our Old Boys who have been recognised for their services in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours.
ROB JURY (Class of 1973) was awarded the ONZM for Services to Structural Engineering and Design. Rob is a widely respected consulting structural engineer who has provided a guiding role in the design of many complex buildings and infrastructure projects, both in New Zealand and overseas. Rob is a Fellow of the Institution of Professional Engineers, New Zealand, and Life member of NZ Structural Engineering Society.
Dr DAVID ROBIE (Class of 1963) was awarded the MNZM for Services to Journalism and Asia-Pacific Media Education. He is editor of Asia Pacific Report. He is former professor of communication studies and Pacific journalism, and founding director of the Pacific Media Centre at Auckland University of Technology. He has been a journalist for more than 40 years, focused on covering the Asia-Pacific region.
HENRY BRITTAIN (Class of 1958) was awarded the KSM for Services to Transport History and Tourism. Henry is a life member of the Wellington Tramway Museum, and has been involved with the organisation since 1965. He has helped develop the museum from a collection of salvaged items from the Wellington City Tramway into a flourishing organisation and supported the museum to be an operational tramway. The 2km line from Mackays Crossing to the beach is a tourism highlight, receiving about half a million visits annually.
OLD BOYS WORKING TOGETHER AT CRAIGS INVESTMENT PARTNERS
The local Wellington Office of Craigs Investment Partners is lucky enough to have four Old Boys serving clients, family trusts and local and national charities in the greater Wellington region and throughout New Zealand. Craigs is one New Zealand’s largest investment advisory firms.
Spanning three decades, Andrew Cathie (Class of 1988); Tim Martin (Class of 1996); Simon Allen (Class of 2001 and former Head Prefect) and Chris Blundell (Class of 2004) all enjoy working together and reminisce fondly about their days at school.
All four can relate to the College’s motto; Lumen accipe et imperti – Receive the light and pass it on, with their support of local communities and through offering financial advice, helping clients save for retirement, and building lasting legacies. www.craigsip.com
NZs U20 team took the bronze medal at the recent World U20 Championships in South Africa beating Ireland. Two of our Old Boys were in the U20 squad: (L) Stanley Solomon (Class of 2022) and Fuka Paongo (Class of 2021).
Back to School
Last term, David Howman (Class of 1966), addressed the Year 12 assembly. David received a CNZM for services to sport in 2017.
David had students enthralled with stories from his work with the World Anti-Doping Agency as he conveyed his key messages about ethics and integrity, and making the most of opportunities. Thank you for coming back to share your advice David!
OBU take the Win
There was a strong black and gold connection to the Old Boys’ University team, who took out the Jubilee Cup against Tawa, adding to the Swindale Shield they won in the round-robin. Old Boys included Fuka Paongo, Geordie Bean, Reece Plumtree, Laurence Jarel-Lim, Josh Morgan-Ranui, and Finn O'Sullivan.
There was also an impressive Wellington College representation from those leading the OBU lads off the field, with Maths teacher Anthony Rehutai heading up the coaching team, while Old Boys Tomasi Palu and Brad Houlahan are part of management.
Rounding off a great weekend for the Old Boys was the announcement of the Centurions Development team. Anthony and Tomasi are coaching, with Old Boys, Fuka Paongo, Ben Tuiomanufili, and Tom Maiava named in the team.
The AGC Memorial Hall was full of warmth and laughter as the College welcomed parents and students for our annual breakfast.
Old Boy, Adam Cooper (Class of 2010) gave an entertaining address about his journey to becoming a sports broadcaster with Newstalk ZB. Adam spoke about the importance of making the most of opportunities, and the value of integrity.
Thank you to the parents including a good number of Old Boys), students and staff who were able to join us.
On 29 July, it was exactly 100 years since the greatest rugby team ever to leave New Zealand sailed from Wellington. These 29 men would win every one of the 32 games they played in England, Ireland, Wales, France and Canada, and would be known ever after as the “Invincibles”.
The team was captained by Old Boy, Cliff Porter (Wellington College 1915). Cliff, born in Scotland, attended South Wellington School and Wellington College. Cliff played in 17 of the 30 matches of the 1924-25 tour to Europe and North America. He was nicknamed 'Offside Porter' because his anticipation was so accurate and his speed around the scrum so great that opponents insisted he must have been offside. He played 41 times for the All Blacks. The man who would become All Black # 286 was a shade under 80kg (12st 8lb). Following his rugby career, he pursued business interests and lived on the Kapiti Coast, and died on 12 November 1976 in Wellington, aged 77.
Old Boys in the News
Henry Isac (Class of 2023), was celebrated in a very special awards ceremony held at Parliament. Henry was one of just ten students across the New Zealand who made up the 2023 Premier Award Scholarship Award winners, a truly remarkable achievement. Henry is pictured with the Minister for Education, Hon. Erica Stanford, and the Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Christopher Luxon along with other Premier Award and Top in Subject winners. Congratulations Henry! We're immensely proud of you.
Celebrating our national champions!
The Sports Department hosted an event to recognise former teams who gained a national title over the course of time. They welcomed back members from the 2001 Cricket 1st XI, the 1994 and 1971 Hockey 1st XIs, and members of the 2023 Basketball team, to unveil championship banners. Banners for Football, Golf, Underwater Hockey and Swimming were also unveiled.
The banners are proudly on display in our Renouf Sports Centre.
Around the Grounds
Last term, two long-serving staff left Wellington College for new pastures.
Lincoln Rawles moved to Tawa College. In his time at the school, in the Health and Physical Education Department, he was a knowledgeable and passionate staff member, wellliked and respected by students and colleagues. Lincoln served in various roles, including Assistant HOD, Junior Curricular Teacher in Charge, and Teacher in Charge of the Academy of Sport Programme. He excelled in teaching, rugby, and athletics coaching, contributing to McEvedy Shield victories and national athletic champions.
unforgettable privilege to have done it. - Lincoln Rawles. These words capture the essence of a 1st XV coach's sentiments at the start of a new season. Wellington College, ranking third behind Auckland Grammar and Christchurch Boys’ High School in producing All Blacks, has had 35 Old Boys become All Blacks and 42 men coach the 1st XV.
Former All Black winger Jeff ‘Goldie’ Wilson highlighted the crucial role of schoolboy rugby coaches in a 2013 article, noting their importance in developing young players. New Zealand’s coaches are a valuable resource, with many finding success overseas
season lasting up to 30 weeks and 25+ fixtures. Only three men, T Brodie (22), T E Beard (18), and J P Firth (16), have surpassed Lincoln's 14 years in this role.
Colm McNulty, author of the forthcoming book on the Rugby Club’s history, shared:It is an honour to be asked to do it, a heavy burden to do it, and an
Lincoln, who dedicated 14 seasons to coaching the 1st XV during one of Wellington College rugby's greatest eras, can attest to the commitment required. Coaching can demand over 25 hours per week beyond teaching duties, with the
Quad hopes quashed by Nelson College
An imperious Nelson College won the 98th annual Quadrangular (Quad) Tournament in postcard conditions in Nelson. Nelson College won the highest scoring final in the history of the competition and Wellington College edged Whanganui Collegiate in the consolation playoff. Wellington College: 28 v Whanganui Collegiate: 21. The final - Nelson College: 53 v Christ’s College: 35. In the first round, Nelson College beat Wellington College 47 - 5.
The 2025 Tournament will take place at Christ’s College in late June (dates to be confirmed).
Nathan Frew, who, after 24 years of dedicated service, has moved to Rathkeale College to be closer to home. Nathan joined the PE Department in 2000 and has since coached numerous rugby teams, including a notable two-year stint with the 1st XVs in 2006 and 2007.
Recently, he has been the Convenor of Golf, witnessing several successes on the courses around Wellington, including his own son’s (Jamie, Class of 2023) impressive performances. We extend our best wishes to Nathan in his new role and express our thanks for his many years as a valued member of the Wellington College family.
Rising Star of the Fencing World: Meet the Junior Male Fencer Making Waves Around the Grounds
Story courtesy of College Sport
Media: Steven White (Class of 1993).
Wellington College Y13 student Joel Ball-La Hood is forging his sporting path in Fencing, and he is currently both the Australian and Oceania Junior Épée Fencing champion.
In February, Joel won four Gold Medals in both the individual and teams events in Épée fencing at the Australian and Oceania Junior Fencing Championship in Melbourne.
Early next year, his sport is taking him to Italy on a fulltime basis. Next year I am going to Milan to study and train, said Joel. There is an academy that has just started and is offering opportunities for people from smaller fencing countries like New Zealand. My friend and New Zealand Junior teammate Nolan Peterson is first year out of school at Wellington High School so is heading there in September and I am joining him after I finish school at the start of next year.
Épée is one of three styles of fencing and the one Joel specialises in, the others being Foil and Sabre. New Zealand fencers mostly do either or both Épée and Foil fencing.
Fencing was featured in this year's Olympic Games in Paris and is listed as the oldest combat sport in the Olympics. Although it is not considered a combat sport, in the same way martial arts and boxing are. Your goal is not to harm the other person, it is to score points - it is a totally safe and fun sport, said Joel. Any fencing injuries are mainly the typical hamstrings and muscles and things like that in other sports.
Fencing, and particularly Joel’s specialty Épée, is a sport of skill, tactics and agility as much as anything else and one he practices at least four times in a typical week and often at the Wellington Swords Club in Brooklyn as a member of the Wellington South Fencing Club.
Winning the Australian and Oceania titles in February (which were held concurrently in Melbourne) was part of a busy run of competitions that Joel has competed in over the past several months – all over the world. Since the end of last year, I’ve been to Hong Kong [Junior World Cup], Bahrain [Junior Asian Zone Championships], Riyadh Saudi Arabia [Junior World Championships], Melbourne twice [Australian and Oceania Championships and AFC 1 Senior tournament], and Brisbane [Australian Nationals]. This is not counting domestic trips around NZ.
Competition is tough competing with the world’s best but increased exposure means improved results. We don’t do badly, but it is hard to compete with the
best countries in our sport with significant resources and higher competition. In these recent overseas competitions, we have had team wins over our counterparts from Brazil, Singapore, Jordan, Turkmenistan and Macau. We also beat Australia regularly when we travel over there!
Joel took up fencing back when he was Y6 at Wellesley College and has never looked back. One of my coaches Daniel Chan, who is a former Hong Kong Olympian, travels around to some schools introducing the sport. In my case, my older brother was already doing it, so when he came to our school I joined in and fell in love with it and stuck with it.
Another aspect to the sport is the equipment and clothing that comes with the sport. I have all my own gear, which is pretty expensive. First of all, you need to be protected and second when you are entering competitions it is tested every time to see if it meets the standard. I have a bag, I have six weapons, my mask, my whites, all of it is an investment to make. What about the mask? It is a mesh mask, you can see straight through it and I don’t even notice it is there.
The NZ Secondary School Championships take place in Auckland in early September, where Joel will be defending his NZSS Épée title.
As well as his busy life training and competing, Joel is halfway through his last year at school so in a few months he will be fighting hard trying to pass exams and gain his qualifications for the next stage in his journey in Italy.
Wellington basketball prodigy, Troy Plumtree breaks family rugby mould
Troy Plumtree might still be at secondary school, but the teenager is already making his mark on the NBL this season with Wellington Saints.
He's just returned from Steven Adams' camp in the US and Troy, 17, hopes to one day play for the Tall Blacks, when mostconsidering his pedigree - would've expected it to be the All Blacks.
Dad John is a former Hurricanes coach and All Blacks assistant, while brother Taine (Class of 2017) recently made his international debut for Wales.
Troy has become the black sheep of the family. At 1.98m (6ft 6in), surely he would've made a good lock? I realise that now, he laughed.
first-ever national secondary schools title. The step up to the NBL is another challenge though. He recently returned form playing in the NZ U17 Men's National Team. The team’s bid to become the first New Zealand team to medal at a FIBA World Cup, was undone by the host nation – as Turkey won the bronze medal game 101-78 in Istanbul
Anytime he's not on point, he gets his ass handed to him, but you know, this is good said Saints coach Nico Good for the humility and good for the habits.
Part of Troy's development also involved meeting up with Kiwi NBA star Steven Adams last month, after being selected to compete at his camp in America. Having Steven there was cool, he said. Having an NBA player watch and stay with us, getting to chat.
WC TV is your new place to find all the latest Wellington College news. Never before seen footage from the 1st XVs trip to Quad. Behind the scenes content with our Head Prefect, Ollie Church. Even an exclusive documentary about the House Cooking Competition. All of these and more will be available on WC TV in the coming weeks. Find us on Youtube and subscribe so you never miss an update.
Instead, he dreams of wearing a black singlet and he's on the right trajectory. Last year, he led Wellington College to their
Being neighbourly
In May, members of the Tū Tamatoa, (our ākonga Māori rōpū -Māori student group), popped over to our neighbours at Government House to be part of the official welcoming party for the Samoan Head of State and his wife.
Our rangitahi were an absolute credit to the kura and their whānau - Ngā mihi nui!
Special thanks to our Kaihautū Matariki Katene for his guidance.
There may be another Plumtree on the international stage before long, this time with a round ball.
WC TV is the place to be.
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Around the Grounds
It was one out of the box for the Wellington College Tramping Club and Duke of Edinburgh programme. 60 students, five staff, two former staff members and three parents headed south to the Nelson Lakes in three groups.
For the entire trip not a single cloud appeared in the sky. A light covering of snow on south-east facing slopes, and frozen streams above the bushline added a magical dimension to the tramping. They were also fortunate enough to get a stunning view of the aurora.
Our students proved to be a audience favourite at the recent Tu Tagata Secondary Schools' Poly Festival in Wellington.
Congratulations to Ngā Korimako, Wellington Girls' College and Wellington College's auditioned combined choir, who have been selected for the Big Sing Finale 2024, which will be held at the Michael Fowler Centre from Thursday 29 - Saturday 31 August!
Jesse Rumball-Smith: Teen Engineer and Entrepreneur
Sixteen-year-old Wellington College student Jesse RumballSmith is passionate about engineering. He created SafeDrive, an app to enhance road safety. Inspired by the high holiday road toll, Jesse wanted to address driver-related factors like speeding, distraction, and fatigue. Jesse presented on SafeDrive at the European Human Factors and Ergonomics Conference in Germany in the recent school holidays
New cars have Intelligent Speed Assistance [ISA], but many can’t afford it. SafeDrive offers similar tech through a smartphone, he said. To make it accessible, SafeDrive works without mobile data, using the national speed limit registry updated via Wi-Fi. The app uses GPS to detect speeding and employs nudge theory with spoken
Congratulations to Oliver Livingstone, who is a finalist in the Play It Strange Peace Song Competition! Out of 160 entries, he is one of 40 finalists who now get to record their songs in a professional recording studio.
Oliver said, My song, 'Start to Fly' focuses on inner peace and growing my own self-confidence. In terms of inspiration, I think one of my main motivations for doing this competition was just to get myself out there....it's nice to know that by the end of this I'll have something up on streaming platforms.
messages to encourage safer driving.
Jesse's early tests showed promising results, with reduced speeding and distractions. He continues to innovate, adding features like fatigue detection using the phone’s camera and exploring partnerships for further
Odevelopment. Jesse advises aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their passions and seek help when needed.
Jesse, who is the current student representative on the Wellington College Board, has been first in Y9, Y10 and Y11 in each recent academic year.
ur Together As Brothers (TAB) group always has a good turnout of students for their after school Study Club. It is great to see so many students from different year levels utilising this opportunity to go over their assignments with some of our amazing staff.
Pasifika Mentor Deborah Tiatia said, We know that it is hard to fit everything in, with sports, music rehearsals and team trainings, but it is great to know that these students are learning how to keep a balance of school-work and extra-curricular responsibilities.
Around the Grounds
Traditionals:
v St Patrick's (Town)
It was nail biting at times but it was a clean sweep when we hosted our first Traditional fixture of the year.
• Football 4 - 2 to WC
• Rugby 43 - 10 to WC
• Basketball 121 - 87 to WC
v St Patrick's (Silverstream)
It was two out of three against Silverstream in close traditional encounter.
• Rugby 31 - 27 to WC
• Football 7 - 0 to WC
• Basketball 77 - 83 to SPS
v Rongotai College
A rare clean sweep across the codes saw all four sports win against the expected tough opposition that is Rongotai College.
• Hockey 10 1 to WC
• Rugby 31 - 0 to WC
• Basketball 89 - 73 to WC
• Football 4 - 3 to WC
v Palmerston North Boys' High School
• Badminton 4 - 3 to PNBHS
• Hockey 1st XI: 3 - 1 to WC
• Hockey U15: 11 - 0 to PNBHS
• Basketball Senior A: 108 - 70 to WC
• Basketball Senior B: 68 - 62 to WC
• Basketball Junior A: 70 - 51 to WC
• Rugby U15: 17 - 12 to PNBHS
• Football 1st XI: 1 - 0 to WC
• Football 2nd XI: 3 - 1 to PNBHS
• Football Junior A: 2 - 1 to PNBHS
• Senior Debating: WC
• Junior Debating: WC
Congratulations...
Congratulations to Cam Jones, Hamish Wright and Dominic Heitger who were members of the NZ U19 Underwater Hockey team that won the U19 World Championships in Malaysia.
Hamish Davenport (Y13) reached 100 caps for the 1st XI hockey team against Rongotai. This comes shortly after being named in the NZ Future Black Sticks U18 squad.
Students from the Senior Construction class are busy working on their shed project, under the guidance of Workshop teacher Ian Sims. The sheds are sold at the end of the year, or in some cases have been converted to offices for staff.
A recent addition to the campus includes the two new bike racks, which were funded by the Wellington City Council... through their Bikes in Schools programme in the hope that more students will bike to school.
Under the guidance of
Brew Cafe at Wellington College is a favourite spot for coffee lovers. Students have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in barista and customer service skills while earning NCEA hospitality credits.
Manager, Van Do, they work with coffee supplied by Chris Thompson (Class of 1995) from Coffee Supreme.