To all our leaving staff, a huge thank you for your contributions while at Tauhara College and we wish you the best of luck for your next chapter.

Ross Kirkwood

Appointed HOF English and Drama in 1986 after teaching Music and English at Taupo-nui-a-Tia for eight years. Directed Dracula Spectacular that year, the first of seven musicals during his time at College. Ross was seconded to Rarotonga as Head of English at Titikaveka College from 1990 till 1993, then returned to Tauhara to take up his position again. With his French teacher wife, Shelley, he organised language student trips to Tahiti, New Caledonia and twice to Europe.

Ross was appointed Deputy Principal in 2006 and retired from that position in 2012, however, he continued to be part of the staff as teacher of Tourism, English and Gateway.

We will see him around the school next year as a relieving teacher.  

Donna Vanner

Mrs Vanner joined the College 28 years ago, and has been working in various capacities during this time, including Social Club, Truancy Officer, Gardener, Careers Administrator, Office Administrator,  NCEA Exams Centre Manager, organising International Students Homestay, Farewells, Prizegiving, Vibe, and School Productions, she also was in a teaching role for a while.  Donna is a baking extraordinaire and well known for her freshly baked scones she would 'whip up' for staff.   She has added her special touch to the school with her amazing floral arrangements.    Students, staff  and whanau have appreciated her comprehensive knowledge of the students and events at our school and her dedication to the well being of others around her.    

Donna is looking forward to spending her retirement with her husband Nigel, and family.   

Tom Inger

Tom Inger joined Tauhara College four years ago.  He has been an absolute asset to the Physical Education Department and he has been instrumental in setting up Junior Health programs and our Year 11 Programs.

He has been coaching the Tauhara College 2nd X1 boys football team and has been involved with the school cricket team. Tom is leaving us for a teaching job at Wellington College.

Phil Somers
Phil Somers joined us at the start of 2019 and has taught a variety of subjects; Level 3 Geography, Life Skills, Junior English, Food Technology and Social Science. He also ran the  Philosophy Club at lunchtimes.  We wish him well.

Saralee Sharplin

Saralee Sharplin came to work part time in the Science Dept and Special Needs Unit during Term 3 and 4. The students have enjoyed her enthusiasm for fitness and encouragement. Saralee has used Te Reo and tikanga with interaction with students and staff alike.  All the best spending time with your whanau.   

Abby Stanfield-Raharuhi

We would like to acknowledge the contributions Abby has made during her time as teacher aide at Tauhara College in the Special Needs Unit.  We wish her well.   

Baby Arrivals: 

Congratulations to Nikki and Rikihana on the arrival of Ihaia, and Roxane and Geoff on the arrival of baby Dylan.  Best wishes from us all.