After the last couple of years, the start of our school year this year has had a relatively ‘normal’ feel about it.

We have been able to hold our assemblies and events, and even been able to invite whānau into the school to connect and to celebrate with us. While we are enjoying this calm start to the year, we are thinking of all those in the North Island who are suffering from the impact of cyclone Gabrielle.

Next week is the anniversary of the devastating earthquakes that impacted us 12 years ago. At the time, people lost family, friends and colleagues, homes and security. Through our experiences we understand how devastating such events can be and we also understand the long journey ahead for those who have suffered in the last few days.

As a school we are going to be looking at ways we can support those in the North Island. This Tuesday we are running a fun inter House event here at school where students dress in their House colours. This is our first, and one of our most significant, whole school events where we can demonstrate and live our school values of Whanaungatanga, Manaakitanga, Aroha and Rangatiratanga and positively build our school culture. On Tuesday we are asking students to bring a gold coin donation, this contribution will kick start our cyclone Gabrielle fundraising campaign.

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

Kia tau te Rangimarie

o te Rangi e tu iho nei

o Papatūānuku e takoto nei

o te Taiao e awhi nei

Ki runga I a tātou

Tihei Mauriora

May the peace

Of the Sky above

Of the Earth below

And of the all-embracing Universe

Rest upon us all

Behold, it is life!

Ngā mihi nui

Peter Sawyer, Acting Principal