New School Board Chair

Thank you also to Hamish Bell, who has stepped down from the School Board, for his important contribution to ensuring the success and well-being of our school.

As we transition into a new governance chapter, please join us in warmly welcoming our incoming School Board Presiding Member, Samuel Hood, and Deputy Presiding Member, Josie Keucke. We deeply appreciate their willingness to step into these crucial roles, and we are confident in their ability to lead our educational community with integrity and dedication. Thank you for being so committed to serving our school.

Introducing Samuel Hood - School Board Presiding Member

Sam is the father of four children, and Tayla (the eldest) is in Year 11 at Dio. With daughter Brooklyn planning to attend Dio from 2026, Sam will be a Dio Dad for the foreseeable future – and is deeply invested in the School’s ongoing success.

Sam is actively involved in the community, including as a Director of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association and trustee of the Toro Mai Trust. He is of proud Scottish and English stock (with a mix of Viking for good measure) and affiliates to Ngāti Hikairo in Kawhia. Sam loves the outdoors and is a keen surfer. In his spare time, he works as a lawyer and currently serves as Managing Partner for Norris Ward McKinnon Lawyers.

Introducing Josie Keucke - School Board Deputy Presiding Member

Since being elected to the School Board in 2022, Josie has supported the school through various School Board and parent activities. As a mother of three, the eldest daughter (Claire) is in year 12, nieces are in various year levels, and another daughter is attending in the future. Josie is committed to the ongoing success of Waikato Diocesan School for Girls.

Josie is involved in various local initiatives including working with industry, schools and educational support groups to provide our tamariki with opportunities to gain a wider perspective on various careers waiting for them.