Two exceptional King’s students were recognised at the Mana Pounamu Awards on Monday evening. The Awards celebrate the success of Māori students across Otago.

The large awards ceremony was cancelled this year in response to Covid so King’s and Queen’s held a more intimate joint ceremony to celebrate their students’ success, attended by whānau, staff, students and He Waka Kōtuia. Tomuri Spicer was awarded in the Tuakana (senior) Section, recognising his leadership at King’s High School in the role of Prefect, his success in the ‘Play it Strange’ and ‘Hook, Line and Singalong’ song writing competitions, his passion for and commitment to He Waka Kōtuia and his considerable academic achievements. Tomuri also received the Otago Daily Times Special Award for Excellence in English. His Awards come with scholarships for Otago University and Otago Polytechnic.

Orlando Tuhega-Vaitupu was awarded in the Teina (junior) Section. This recognised his skill and enthusiasm in a wide range of sports, including Touch, Rugby, Rugby League and Volleyball, his superb academic record in his first three years at King’s, and dedication to He Waka Kōtuia and King’s of the Pacific.