Kia ora Parents and Caregivers,

We’ve made it through to the end of the term, and I know students and staff alike are looking forward to the break. With gathering restrictions lifted, it has been a term full of activities, events – and lots of successes.

With all the cancellations over the past two years, I have been impressed with the way our students have stepped up this term, organising an array of events, fundraisers and activities across the school. From bake sales, Korean and Chinese Nights, to last Friday’s Quiz Night, students are enjoying the chance to fully embrace the opportunities before them.

One of the reasons for our students’ enthusiasm, is the fantastic new venue they have to showcase their talents. Almost a year after the ceremony was initially planned, our Event Centre was officially opened by former Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy on Thursday 30 June. A highlight was the unveiling of the plaque in the foyer which bears her name, but states 20 August 2021 as the official opening date. A second plaque will be created to sit underneath the original – displaying, for future generations, the Covid journey we took.

Our Kapa Haka group, Westlake Symphony Orchestra and Cantare choir all performed to an exceptionally high standard, and Head Prefect Ivy Mitchell superbly shared her thoughts and insights into the Centre from a student’s perspective. The hour-long ceremony was a special occasion, shared by invited guests including foundation pupils and other alumni, Board reps, staff, students, key community leaders, and a myriad of people involved in the Centre’s design and construction over the past few years.

Dame Patsy enjoyed her time at our school and it was certainly a pleasure to finally host her.

The Event Centre was filled again a few days later, when we held our annual Open Night on Tuesday. There was a fantastic turn-out despite the weather, and all students involved did a wonderful job of showcasing our school. For me as Principal, it has been a very proud couple of weeks.

In this, our final newsletter for the term, you can catch up on some student success stories such as Isabella Drummond’s speech accomplishments, Noelle Nayon’s recording opportunity following the Sound Depot North Shore Song Writing Competition, and Zoe Crawford’s U17 Sportswoman of the Year award. There’s lots of great reading.

I hope you have an enjoyable holiday break, with some precious family time.

Jane Stanley
Principal