This year, 65 students, 5 staff, 2 coaches (Mr, Mark Enoka, Soccer, and Mr. Jarrod MacDonald, Basketball and Volleyball) travelled to Opunake to compete in our annual sports exchange

Those of us in the travelling party stayed for the night and three additional staff members, including Mr. McIntyre, came up for the day.

We had a number of close results throughout the two days of events, in particular Boys’ Basketball (who were leading after the first quarter), Debating and Hockey. The final results, however, did not go our way and Opunake were the outright overall winners of this year’s exchange.

We must acknowledge the incredible performance of our students, both on and off the field/courts, as their behaviour and conduct were outstanding throughout the exchange. This year both schools decided not to have the traditional Social, which was a shame as it has always been one of the exchange highlights. Instead, we, as a school, planned a mini tabloids event which involved students been put into teams and playing traditional Maori hand games, ABL activities, charades, and other games. The Opunake High School Head Students also joined a tabloids team and all students had a great time and enjoyed the change.

As always, we offer our genuine and heartfelt thanks to all of the parents, coaches and staff who travelled away with us, taking time away from your homes and whanau. This trip would not be able to take place without your support.