From the Principal

Kia ora,

As I write my last Intouch to you, it is one of a many ‘lasts’ that I will complete on my list as the year and our time at Rangi Ruru rapidly comes to an end, for not only the Year 13 ākonga but also for me. My eight years at Rangi Ruru have certainly flown by and it is with excitement, mixed with genuine sadness that Bruce and I (and our dogs Meg and Skye) will set off on our new adventure to Somerville House in Brisbane.

Like for our students, Rangi Ruru has been a place of learning for me. From the moment I arrived, I have felt that I belonged and that I could be ‘myself’ at all times. It has been a privilege to have been the Principal of Rangi Ruru and it is my hope that I have honoured the legacy left by the Gibson sisters 134 years ago, of giving our young wāhine the opportunities to be the best versions of themselves, to have a voice, to be the change and to care about others.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for choosing to send your daughter/s to Rangi Ruru and for the support that you have given not only to me, but to all of the staff. They are an incredible group of professionals who I witness on a daily basis genuinely care for your daughter in all areas of her school life. Wrapped around this are our PTA committee who continue to support and connect our current families so that they too can belong and RROGA who continue to meet and share their stories about the school that they still love and the friendships forged that have lasted a lifetime.

I know that Rangi Ruru will continue to blossom and shine. It is in safe hands under the leadership of Stephanie Barnett, as Acting Principal and the senior management team. The Board recognise the importance of choosing the right person and are progressing this process with the help of a leading international recruitment firm. I am confident they will find the right person who will love Rangi Ruru as much as I have and who will continue to move it forwards, while respecting all that makes it such a special place. 

I look forward to seeing you at the final events for the year, including the Clan and Family Carol Services which are being held this Sunday in our beautiful chapel at 4pm and 7pm, our Prize Giving which is being held at the Christchurch Town Hall on Tuesday, 5 December commencing at 6.30pm, and culminating in our Year 13 Leavers’ Ball at Te Pae on Thursday, 7 December. 

Finally I leave you with this Irish Blessing and wish you the very best for 2024 and beyond.

May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the sun shine warm upon your face
May the rain fall soft upon your fields and
Until we meet again
May God hold you in the palm of his hand

Ngā mihi

Dr Sandra Hastie
Principal