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Keri Campbell farewells Peri Petelo in Te Reo
 
Video by Brendan Biggs Biggsie3

Peri Petelo leaves STC after 13 years

John Gaffaney —

"Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence." from Desiderata

Some words about Peri - From John Gaffaney (HOF)

Some background to Peri:

  • Came to NZ in 1968 from Samoa
  • Came to NZ on a scholarship to study telecommunications and electronics.
  • Masters Degree in electronics
  • Worked for Tait Electronics during the period where that company was aglobal player
  • Joined the Police in 1977 - stationed in Christchurch - worked in the telecom section and developed comm-link between South Island Police stations
  • left the Police and started a business venture importing taro from samoa
  • Samoa Authorities wanted someone to organise the servicing of their recently purchased telecom and TV equipment - Peri trained locals to do this - a teaching desire may have been awakened here.
  • 2002 - started teaching at Porirua College
  • Arrived at STC in 2003 from Porirua College  

The following are some excerpts from John's speech at Peri's staff farewell:

"I wish to thank Peri for his great service as a science teacher at STC - you have always shown loyalty to me and to the College. I have never asked him to do something without the knowledge that you will give it your best shot - you have never let me down. Respect and great service for students.

I have never heard an unpleasant word about any person. The worst has been just a shake of the head and a "He will grow up one day" or "He will get nowhere unless he makes some effort" or just a quiet chuckle.

Thank you Peri for your support and friendship during the last 13 years - a true christian gentleman and a rare breed. You are top-ranked among those who have passed through my science classrooms over the many years.

have a happy retirement ... ( I wont say relaxed because it wont be with grandchildren around) ... with lots of golf and fishing and we look forward to your presence at the opening of the new Stem Block next year.

John Gaffaney