Ngā mihi nui kia koutou katoa. Welcome to the Westland High School newsletter for the end of term 3 2025.

Tēnā koutou katoa, as Term 3 draws to a close, I'm filled with a sense of immense pride and gratitude for the incredible journey we've shared. This has been a truly remarkable term, packed with learning, challenges, and some unforgettable experiences that have highlighted the exceptional talent and dedication of our students and staff.

A recent highlight was the spectacular Te Hui Ahurei o nga kura o te Tai Poutini. The energy and passion on display from our kapa haka group were nothing short of breathtaking. They represented our school with mana and pride, showcasing not only their performance skills but also their deep connection to their culture. This event was a powerful reminder of the importance of celebrating and nurturing our unique heritage. I would like to extend my special thanks to Whaea Christine Weepu for all her work leading a team to deliver such a spectacular event. While the kūmara does not speak of its own sweetness, Kāore te kūmara e kōrero mō tōna ake reka, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge this dedication to our kura, our rangatahi and our community.

The Koru Games trip was another resounding success. Our young athletes competed with fierce determination and sportsmanship, representing our school with integrity and grace. Beyond the wins and losses, this trip was about teamwork, resilience, and building lasting friendships. It was inspiring to see our students push their limits and support one another, demonstrating that the spirit of competition can also be a vehicle for personal growth. My thanks to Brijen Parikh for his awesome work in this space.

A truly enriching experience for a select group of students is the Japan Edogawa Exchange trip. This cultural immersion provides a unique opportunity to learn about a different way of life, forge new relationships, broaden their global perspective and honour a more than twenty year connection. The stories gained from their time in Japan, from school life to host family interactions, will be a testament to the power of such exchanges in shaping open-minded and confident global citizens. We are grateful for the relationships we have built with our sister school and look forward to continuing this valuable exchange in the future. Thank you to Jane Brownie for nurturing this relationship and her incredible work to support this year’s opportunity. 

These are just a few of the many highlights of a very busy term. Behind every achievement, whether it's on the stage, the sports field, or in the classroom, is the quiet, consistent hard work of our students. Your commitment to your studies, your willingness to tackle new challenges, and your perseverance in the face of difficulty are what truly define this school. I have seen countless examples of students going above and beyond, and your efforts are deeply appreciated. Please don’t forget that 2026 course selection has opened and we hope that the holidays provide time for reflection with whānau and family as students select subjects for next year. 

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff. Your passion for teaching, your unwavering support for our students in CAA testing and their derived grade exams, and your willingness to go the extra mile have made this term a success. Your energy and commitment are the backbone of our school community.

And to our wonderful whānau and community, thank you for your ongoing support. Your partnership is invaluable, and we couldn't do what we do without you.

As the holidays approach, I wish you all a well-deserved break. Take this time to rest, recharge, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for an exciting Term 4.

Ngā mihi nui
Nic Richards
Principal