Summer finally sprung on us and we were fortunate enough to receive some pleasant weather for our recent trip.

Seven of our international students went on an adventure.  Each day we found interesting places to stop and take photos, whilst galavanting to the West Coast, via Arthurs Pass.  We explored Castle Hill, had pancakes at Punakaiki, mined for gold at Shantytown, climbed the terrain to the Devil's Punchbowl waterfall, watched the sunset in Greymouth,  searched the beach at Hokitika and gazed at the Franz Josef Glacier.  We actually had nice weather the whole time!

We had decided as a small group that exploring more of New Zealand was the preferred option for our term four activities. However, we also explored more of Christchurch as we enjoyed the walk over the Bridal Path, down to Lyttelton then over on the ferry to Diamond Harbour, before coming back around with a stop at Governors Bay. We also took advantage of the A & P show and challenged the students at the Adrenalin Forest. Term four is always full of excursions as most of the international students do not sit NCEA exams. Another exciting adventure took Kotomi and Urara up to Wellington for the World of Wearable Arts and both felt rather inspired on their return!

Over the last term, we have enjoyed the company of students from Thailand through UCE, who came during the holidays and had a few weeks in Year 10 classes experiencing some of our subject offerings. 

We have farewelled many of our students, but before they went, Kotomi and Urara were awarded with Kahu Awards, with Urara also gaining the Top International Student Award and a certificate from the Mayor for her time at the Food Forest.  And our very own Sasha Kerrigan gained the International Student Ambassador Award for her involvement with our International students.

Thank you to all the homestay families who have participated in hosting this year, we have another busy year ahead and look forward to working with you all again. We wish our international students that are leaving all the very best and look forward to hearing of their ongoing journeys. 

Well, that's a wrap! Merry Christmas all, stay safe out there!

Sarah Sweet - International Manager