Anneka Van Der Werff

Howick Intermediate Board elections are coming up in September and we have 3 positions available.

Over the coming months we will hear from members of our current board and their experiences in the role. This week we hear from our current Board Presiding Member Anneka van der Werff who joined the board in 2022.

Introduction & Connection to School

It’s been a real privilege to be part of the Howick Intermediate School Board since 2022. Before that, I spent two terms on the board of a primary school, and I’ve really valued the opportunity to stay connected and give back to our community. I’m especially looking forward to next year, with my youngest child starting at Howick Intermediate. Our family has had such a positive experience here—my twins finished last year—and we’ve always felt a strong sense of connection within the school. As someone who grew up in the area and still calls it home, it’s been incredibly special to see my children grow and learn in such a caring and inclusive environment.

What motivated you to join the Board?

Community involvement has always been an important part of my life it's something that runsdeep in my family and is a core part of who I am. That’s one of the key reasons I chose to put myself forward for nomination to the school board. I believe a strong and effective board is one that reflects a diverse range of voices, with each member bringing their own experiences and strengths to the table. With a background in People & Culture leadership and a solid understanding of education, I felt I could contribute meaningfully by offering support and guidance in employment matters, while also viewing decisions through the lens of what’s best for our learners.

What have you gained from being on the Board?

Being part of the Howick Intermediate School Board has been an amazing and rewarding experience. It’s been a real privilege to work alongside like-minded people from our community who are all here for one purpose—to support the school and help make a positive difference for every learner. I’ve gained a huge appreciation for just how much goes into running a school, and I’ve been constantly impressed by the strong leadership and dedicated teaching team we’re lucky to have.

With board elections coming up, now is a great time to think about how you might get involved. As parents, we all want the very best for our children, and joining the board is a meaningful way to help shape the future of our school. You don’t need to be an expert—just someone who cares, brings a fresh perspective, is willing to ask questions, and is keen to work as part of a team. If you’re passionate about education and our community, I encourage you to consider putting your name forward for nomination.

If you have any questions about being a parent representative on the board, please contact Anneka Van Der Werff on 021 036 3306 or email me at board@howickint.school.nz