Tēnā koutou, e te whānau o Howick College,
 This week, we celebrated Schools' Pride Week and Samoan Language Week. Both have served to highlight the importance of inclusion, diversity, and acceptance.
In New Zealand, up to 20% of students identify as members of the rainbow community, and evidence shows that these students experience significantly higher rates of bullying. Many rainbow students also say they do not feel they belong at school nor do they feel supported. This is not something we should be at all proud of as a country.
We have taken the opportunity this week to fly the rainbow flag and to celebrate and affirm rainbow identities and their sense of belonging at school. Hopefully, we will see a change in behaviour and attitude across our country — including among those in public life who seek to use someone’s rainbow identity for political gain, at either end of the political spectrum.
 The 2025 theme for Samoan Language Week is ‘Ia malu lou sā. Folau i lagimā – A well-grounded self is a successful self’. The Komiti o le Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa – Samoan Language Week Committee – explains this year's theme:
"A well-crafted ocean sailing vessel, built with care and precision, ensures a safe and steady journey. When all its parts are thoughtfully constructed, the vessel remains balanced, strong and ready to face the open seas. Similarly, people who prepare thoroughly and with intention become grounded and resilient, and well-equipped to navigate life’s challenges and succeed in their endeavours. No matter the challenges and hardships of life, a well-grounded person will not be easily shaken or defeated because they are firmly rooted and well-prepared."
At Howick College, we celebrated this week with various student-led activities. On Friday, Samoan students were encouraged to wear cultural dress in celebration of their heritage.
Samoan is the second most spoken language in Auckland, which is regarded as the largest Polynesian city in the world. It is also the third most spoken language in New Zealand, following te reo Māori and English.
Language is important because it embodies the culture, heritage, and collective experiences of a community. Being proud of one's language is synonymous with being proud of one's identity.
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Have a great weekend.
Dale Burden
Principal/Tumuaki
| | Tuesday 10 & Thursday 12 June
Y13 Drama presents The Odyssey
Wednesday 11 & Friday 13
Y13 Drama presents Yerma
Wednesday 11 June
School Board Meeting
5:00pm - 8:00pm
Wednesday 18 June
NCEA Drama Performances
7:00 - 9:00pm
Howick College Fono
6:00 - 7:00pm
Thursday 19 June
Midwinter Festival
Friday 20 June
Matariki - Public Holiday
Sunday 22 - Tuesday 24 June
Jazz Band & Orchestra Tour
Monday 23 June
Teacher Only Day
Tuesday 24 - Friday 27 June
Cultural Week
Thursday 26 June
International Food Festival
Non-Uniform Day
Friday 27 June
Last Day Term 2
Monday 14 July
Term 3 begins
Tuesday 15 July
Parent Teacher Interviews
4:00pm - 7:00pm
Monday 21 July
Inter-House Bake-Off Competition
Tuesday 22 July
Parent Teacher Interviews
4:00pm - 7:00pm
Wednesday 23 & Thursday 24 July from 6:00 - 8:00pm
NCEA Music Concerts
Thursday 31 July
Y10 Subject Selection Evening
6:00 - 8:00pm
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CONNECTING THROUGH LEADERSHIP Over 90 student leaders from Maraetai Beach School, Brookby School, Howick Intermediate, Botany Downs Primary School, Clevedon School, Howick Primary School, Beachlands School, and Howick College came together at the Uxbridge Arts Centre on Thursday 29 May for a day focused on leadership development.
The main event was a seminar delivered by Darren Pereira from Success Integrated, whose message centred on the idea that “leadership is not a position or a title; it is action and example.” Students were actively engaged throughout, gathering fresh insights and practical strategies to apply in their leadership roles within their schools.
In the afternoon, our own Howick College student leaders facilitated a range of team-building activities around the Uxbridge hall and gardens. The energy and enthusiasm on display provided a strong finish to the day’s events, as students from all participating schools worked together and built meaningful connections .
Howick College Head Student Nathan Cox said it was a great experience and noted, “It was interesting to see how the younger participants had a different perspective on the world around us. Even though we’re technically part of the same generation, primary-aged students have grown up influenced by COVID restrictions and social media. Being surrounded by older students seemed to help them feel more at ease and comfortable to be themselves.”
The event reflects the vision of the Howick Kāhui Ako: “a collaborative, future-focused community empowering all ākonga to excel.” This shared leadership experience highlights the strength of inter-school collaboration and the value of student voice across all year levels.
CELEBRATING SCHOOLS' PRIDE WEEK This week, Howick College proudly celebrated Schools' Pride Week, an opportunity to recognise and affirm the diversity within our school community. Our Rainbow Alliance led the way, raising the Rainbow Flag on Tuesday, followed by a rainbow-themed bake sale on Friday to raise funds for Rainbow Youth, bringing colour and spirit to the week while supporting an important cause. Schools' Pride Week reminds us of the importance of creating a space where everyone feels safe to be themselves. We are proud to stand alongside our Rainbow ākonga and will continue to foster a culture of support and acceptance all year round.
MEET YOUR BOARD - PARENT VOICES IN LEADERSHIP | | In the lead-up to this year’s Board elections in September, we will be sharing a series of profiles from our current Board members. These reflections are a chance to hear directly from those already serving about what motivates them, what they have learned, and why they believe contributing to the Board makes a difference.
This week, we hear from parent representative Bruce Barrett. Mr Barrett has served on the Howick College Board since 2022 and was previously a member of the Beachlands School Board. As the Operations Director for a New Zealand-owned premium hair and body care brand he contributes his expertise as a member of both the Board’s Finance Committee and the Property, Health & Safety Committee.
If you would like to know more about what is involved in becoming a Board member, please email Miles Stratford at [email protected].
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What motivated you to join the Board?
I first joined the Beachlands School Board around seven years ago as a way to give back to the local community and get involved in the governance of my children’s school. I didn’t have any previous board experience, just a genuine desire to get involved. When both my daughters moved on to Howick College, I decided to continue the journey. I really enjoyed my time at Beachlands School and was keen to stay actively involved in governance.
What have you gained from being involved with the Board?
The benefits definitely outweigh the time involved. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of running a large secondary school, there’s so much more involved than I had ever appreciated! I’ve also valued the opportunity to set an example for my children about the importance of courage and giving back where you can.
Why should others consider putting themselves forward as candidates?
Being a board member is not as scary as it may seem, nor as time-consuming as you might expect. What you gain is the opportunity to help shape the direction of the school and represent parents at a governance level. Previous governance experience is not a prerequisite, just a desire to give back and a willingness to learn.
What’s one value or belief that guides your work on the Board?
I've always been a naturally curious person who likes to dig beneath the surface to understand the "why." This curiosity, along with a balanced perspective, drives me in all aspects of life, including my role on the school board. At times, key questions need to be asked, but things aren’t always as they first appear. That’s why maintaining perspective and showing respect is so important.
PASIFIKA FONO 2025Howick College warmly invites all Pasifika families to attend our upcoming Pasifika Fono on Wednesday 18 June (Week 8, Term 2) from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Howick College Library.
This evening is an opportunity to come together in a spirit of connection and collaboration, strengthening the partnership between home and school to support the success of our Pasifika ākonga.
We welcome your voice and input as we work together to empower our young people to thrive - academically, culturally, and personally.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Fa‘afetai lava • Mālō ‘aupito • Fakaaue lahi • Meitaki ma‘ata • Vinaka vakalevu
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OUR NEW ALUMNI PLATFORM IS LIVE! | | We’re thrilled to announce that our new alumni platform, Alumnly, is officially live! Whether you walked the halls as a student or stood at the front of the classroom, we’d love for you to join us.
This is your space to reconnect with old friends, catch up on where everyone’s landed, and share your own story with the Howick College community. Let’s celebrate the past, inspire the future, and keep the connections going strong.
Join us on Alumnly here
https://www.howickcollege.school.nz/alumni
https://howickcollege.alumnly.com
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MUSICIANS PLAY TO FULL HOUSE It was standing room only at the Uxbridge Theatre last Friday as Howick College students took to the stage for a special Fridays@Twelve concert, and the talent on display was nothing short of exceptional!
The concert featured a diverse line-up of performers, including our Jazz Band, String Orchestra, Choir, and a range of solo and duet acts. From soulful vocal performances to polished ensemble work, each item reflected the dedication and musicality of our students. The event was a sell-out, with audience members queuing out the door to be part of the experience. Uxbridge Arts Centre praised the event as an outstanding showcase of youth talent and musical collaboration.
Our students thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to share their music with the wider community, and we were overwhelmed by the support from whānau, friends, and the public. Congratulations to all involved — your hard work and passion made for a memorable afternoon of music.
STUDENTS DEBATE SCHOOL BALLS With the buzz of the school ball still fresh, Year 13 English students took a step back to critically reflect on the event in a unique way — through a structured classroom debate. Their teacher, Mrs Fleet, used the occasion to help students develop their critical thinking skills. The question posed: Should schools still hold balls? Students were guided through the steps of critical thinking — evaluating perspectives, weighing evidence, and constructing reasoned arguments.
Divided into 'for' and 'against' teams, the class worked in groups of three to research and prepare their arguments. On the day of the debate, one student from each group took the floor to present their side or counter the opposing argument, while their teammates supported them with information. The debate was evenly matched, with students engaging respectfully and thoughtfully on both sides of the issue. While there was no declared winner, the discussion prompted several students to reconsider their initial views on school balls.
A thoughtful and timely exercise, this debate encouraged students to look beyond the glitter of the ball and think more deeply about the traditions we take for granted.
 | | ZONTA AWARDS ALUMNAWe are incredibly proud to celebrate the success of 2024 Head Girl and recent Howick College graduate Prajna Chaudhry, who has been named the Zonta District 16 Young Women in Leadership Awardee for 2025. In even more exciting news, Prajna has also been recognised internationally, selected as one of just 37 Zonta International Awardees from around the world!
Prajna submitted her application for the prestigious award last year, and received the good news this week from Zonta District 16 Chair, Claire Bruce. In her message, Claire congratulated Prajna on her “outstanding success” and expressed her excitement in making contact to share the news.
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Zonta International is a global organisation that supports and empowers women through service and advocacy. The Young Women in Leadership Award recognises exceptional young women for their leadership skills, academic achievement, and commitment to community service. We congratulate Prajna on this extraordinary honour, a reflection of her dedication, values, and inspiring leadership both at Howick College and beyond. We look forward to following her continued journey.
 Warm up your winter with a fantastic lunchtime full of fun, food, and festivities at our annual Mid-Winter Christmas celebration! Ticket sales start next week in the Student Office Foyer. Don't Miss Out!
CAREERS DEPARTMENT NEWSUpcoming Education Provider VisitsThe University of Queensland (Brisbane)
When: Tuesday 10th June
Where: 10.50am (Tutor), H3
The University of British Columbia (Canada)
When: Thursday 12th June
Where: 10.50am (Tutor), H3
Monash University (Melbourne)
When: Friday 13th June
Where: 10.50am (Tutor), Library
SENIOR DRAMA PRODUCTIONS The Odyssey – Splendid Theatre’s adaptation retells the epic journey of Odysseus and his famously inconvenient return home from the Trojan War. A decade of adventures is packed into a breathless hour of high-energy storytelling. A heroic cast of multi-roling performers brings to life a mythical world filled with hungry monsters, devious sorceresses, and frequent shipwrecks, as the ever-resourceful Odysseus battles to return to his family. A classic tale reimagined with pace, humour, and theatrical flair.
Directed by: Isabella Murray & Aria Russell
Tickets: $10 via your myKindo account. Members of the public can purchase tickets online via Kindo here.
Door sales also available. PG
 Yerma -The second play in García Lorca's renowned rural trilogy, Yerma was written and first performed in 1934. Described by Lorca as "a tragic poem," the play explores the powerful forces of fate and societal expectation in rural Spain, ultimately sealing a young woman’s destiny. Yerma centres on its title character, whose desperate longing for motherhood grows into a consuming obsession — one that leads her down a dark and tragic path.
Direct by: Courtney McAnally & Mrs Dryden
Tickets: $10 via your myKindo account. Members of the public can purchase tickets online via Kindo here.
Door sales also available. PG Suitable for year 11+
SPORTS NEWSOutstanding Week for Underwater HockeyIt’s been an exciting week for Howick College’s underwater hockey community, with achievements to celebrate both at the national and regional level.
 Left: Ex-Howick College students named to represent NZ
| |  Right: 2nd place for current students at North Island Champs
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Congratulations to past students—Logan Stevenson (2017), Phoebe Ata (2023) and Sam Marshall (2019), —who have been named in the New Zealand Elite Underwater Hockey squads. All three have come through the college’s underwater hockey programme as players and coaches, and are now preparing to represent New Zealand at the Asia/Oceania Underwater Hockey Intercontinental Championship in Kuala Lumpur from 3–9 August 2025. This competition is also the qualifying event for the 2027 World Championships. Their selection marks a proud milestone, as they move from age-group representation into the elite level. Congratulations on this well-earned recognition!
Meanwhile, a team made up entirely of Howick College players represented the GI Joes Club at the North Island Club Championships held over King's Birthday Weekend, finishing as runners-up in the C Grade competition. This is a fantastic result and a testament to the depth of talent and teamwork among our students. Congratulations to: Kiera York (Co-Captain), Reilee Butcher (Co-Captain), Adan Esterhuizen, Elise Glenie, Evie Hollyman, Justin York, Declan York, Kian Klopper
Well done to all involved—your commitment, teamwork and drive continue to raise the profile of underwater hockey at Howick College and beyond.
Past Students Coach Next Generation This week, members of the Howick College Judo and Jiu Jitsu Club were treated to a special training session with a very accomplished guest. Brent Cooper, an Olympian (1988) and Commonwealth Games gold medalist (1990), returned to his former school to share his expertise with current students.
A foundation student of Howick College, Mr Cooper led a focused session exploring the fundamentals of movement and footwork in judo. His visit offered students a rare opportunity to learn from one of New Zealand’s most experienced martial artists.
Joining him on the mat was another Howick College alumnus, Conrad Hynes (2024), who supported the session and brought additional insight to the class. Together, they provided a memorable experience that inspired and motivated the next generation of martial artists at Howick College.
Boys 1st XI Football Tops Table | | Our First XI Boys' Football team delivered a commanding performance on Thursday in their much-anticipated clash with King’s College. In what was described as a grudge match following last season’s encounter, the team wasted no time, scoring six goals before half-time. Goals came courtesy of Finn Wessels, Blake Davis, Asher Saunders, Trent McVeigh, and a double goal from Levi Saunders.
Despite the rain setting in during the second half, the momentum continued. Tom Mengal netted his first goal for the team, with Josh Classen and Liam Wessels rounding out a resounding 9–0 victory.
Their strong form continued with a 7–1 win over Rangitoto College on Friday that took them to the top of the table, despite having played one less game.
The focus now shifts to two critical away matches against Takapuna Grammar School (2nd place) and Rosmini College (3rd place).
Good luck lads, we are backing you every step of the way!
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Impressive Win for Boys' Hockey | | The Howick College First XI Boys’ Hockey also gave an outstanding performance this week, claiming an emphatic 9–1 win over Avondale College.
Up 3-0 at half-time, the team maintained their intensity in the second half, adding six more goals to cap off a commanding result. A special mention goes to top goal scorer Elliot Guyan, who scored five goals with support from Alex Yin, 2 goals, and a goal each from Hamish Lad and Lucas Reid.
The boys displayed our 4Cs values superbly, showing respect and sportsmanship towards Avondale College from start to finish—an excellent example of what it means to represent Howick College both on and off the field.
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Rowing Give-it-a-Go Days Premier Teams Sports Draw - Week 6MONDAY 9 JUNE
1st XV Girls' Rugby vs Mt Roskill Grammar School, Venue: Mt Roskill Grammar School , Kick-off: 4:00pm
TUESDAY 10 JUNE
Premier Boys' Basketball vs King's College, Venue: One Tree Hill College, Start: 4:00pm
1st XI Boys' Football vs Takapuna Grammar School, Venue: Takapuna Grammar School, Kick-off: 3:00pm
Snr Open Underwater Hockey vs TBC, Venue: TBC, Start: TBC
WEDNESDAY 11 JUNE
Howick 1 Badminton vs King's College, Venue: Lloyd Elsmore Hall, Start: 3:30pm
1st XI Girls' Football vs Pakuranga College, Venue: HOME GAME, Kick-off: 4:00pm
1st XI Boys' Hockey vs TBC, Venue: TBC, Start: TBC
1st XI Girls' Hockey vs TBC, Venue: Rosa Birch Turf 1, Start: 5:30pm
FRIDAY 13 JUNE
1st XI Boys' Football vs Northcote College, Venue: HOME GAME, Kick-off: 3:00pm
SATURDAY 14 JUNE
1st XV Boys' Rugby vs Southern Cross Campus, Venue: Southern Cross Campus, Kick-off:12:00pm
Premier 1 Netball vs Marist College, Venue: Auckland Netball Centre Court B, Start: 9:30am
KINDO PAYMENTS | | Kindo is now our preferred payment system for donations, course and sports fees, school trips, fundraisers, and more.
What this means:
- Payments can no longer be made via the Kamar Financial tab or direct bank deposits.
- Families are encouraged to set up a Kindo account, remembering to use the email address on file with the school.
- If you already have a myKindo or ezlunch account, simply update your details—no need to create a new account.
- If your account has been inactive for over 15 months, contact the Kindo Helpdesk to reactivate it.
For full sign-up instructions, click here to download the flyer or visit our website. If you need assistance, please visit the Kindo online support pages.
Need more help?
Kindo Helpdesk: 8:00am – 4:00pm (weekdays)
Freephone: 0508 4 KINDO (0508 454 636)
Email: [email protected]
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HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY - BOOK OF THE WEEK |
