On a chilly but sunny Thursday morning on 4 July 2019 at Travis Road, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern was welcomed in the main theatre with a traditional powhiri addressed by Shirley’s Ngai Tahu Whaikorero and current Board of Trustee member Iaean Cranwell and supported by the Shirley BHS-Avonside GHS kapa haka.

The Official Party also included Minister of Education Chris Hipkins, Members of Parliament Poto Williams and Jo Hayes, Christchurch City Councillor David East and Coralanne Child representing the Ministry of Education. Shirley BHS Head Boy in 2011 Jack Henry was also present, maintaining a historical link between North Parade and Travis Road.

Speeches were made by John Laurenson and Anita Yarwood in lieu of Principal Sue Hume who was overseas, as well as the Shirley BHS Board of Trustees Chairman, Tony Deavoll. The National Anthem accompanied by the Avonside GHS Orchestra.

Invited by Head Boy Liam Walker and Avonside Head Girl Chanelle Qata to address the combined staff of Shirley BHS, Avonside GHS and Ferndale School as well as senior students, Jacinta Ardern acknowledged the challenges facing both schools since 2010. These had been exacerbated by the earthquakes of 2011 and she congratulated staff and students for their resilience in coping with the aftermath and the long period of reconstruction. She concluded by looking forward to the success of the first co-located Public Private Partnership school in the South Island.

Following the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, she proceeded outside to plant a liquid amber tree in the Shared Courtyard then joined the combined kapa haka for a group photograph before touring the building.