We are thrilled to have 3 new teachers this year - make sure you say kia ora and make them feel welcome when you see them around school. 🤗

Hamish Drummond - Rm 20

Kia Ora!

I'm Hamish Drummond and I am very happy to be at Hoon Hay Te Kura Kōaka. I was born in Wellington and grew up in the great city of Nelson. I enjoyed school and played as many sports as I could.  I did some hard yakka as a concrete labourer for a year before heading down to The College of Education in Dunedin. I had always coached teams and enjoyed teaching children new skills so it was an obvious career choice for me. I finished my degree and worked at an Intermediate School for two years before travelling up to the Garden City late last year. I still play plenty of sports and really enjoy going back Nelson to catch up with friends, play numerous rounds of golf with my family and, of course, support the mighty Tasman Mako! 

Something you don't know about me: I'm really good at eating! I once ate 3 foot long Subway sandwiches in a row. 🌯🌯🌯🍪

Kelsi O'Neill - Rm 5

Kia ora, I am a born and bred Southlander. I was brought up on a small sheep and beef farm, just out of Invercargill, with my parents and younger brother. I have spent the last 5 years studying at the University of Otago and am very excited to begin my teaching journey at Hoon Hay School, Te Kura Kōaka.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.  I like playing sports and keeping active. I am passionate about farming and have a love for all animals and children.

Something you may not know about me: I love shearing sheep and while I make sure I'm very careful, I am faster than both my brother and my dad! 🐏

Cameron Russell - Rm 19

Kia Ora!

My name is Cameron, and I am teaching year 5/6 in Room 19 this year. I love going into the outdoors and have recently conquered my fear of heights through outdoor rock climbing! I have been working at UC for the past year, and before this taught at Thorrington School.

Something you may not know about me: I am 1/4 Rarotongan!   🇨🇰