Term 2, Week 8, 2025

FROM THE PRINCIPAL Tēnā koutou, e te whānau o Howick College, Depending on your religion or ethnicity, New Year can fall at different times of the year and be celebrated in many ways. For example, there is Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival; the Muslim month of Muharram; and Rosh Hashanah, one of the most important religious holidays in the Jewish calendar. In Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah means ‘head of the year.’ Māori also have their own New Year, marked by the rise of Matariki - a group of stars also known as the Pleiades star cluster or The Seven Sisters - and the sighting of the next new moon. Like Chinese New Year, and the Christian festival of Easter, its exact timing varies from year to year but usually occurs in midwinter. This week, we have been acknowledging and celebrating the build-up to the public holiday on Friday. I have to admit I was quite ignorant about Matariki before, so it was good to learn some of the details and gain further insight into Māori culture from our students this week. On Monday, members of the Paihere Council ran workshops throughout the day to help staff and students better understand Matariki and related topics. These sessions were well attended and enjoyed by all - quite simply, they were outstanding. Traditionally, Matariki was used to determine the coming season's crop. A warmer season, and therefore a more productive crop yield, was indicated by brighter stars. Matariki provides an ideal opportunity to explore how people pass on and sustain aspects of their culture and heritage. Have a great Matariki weekend. Dale Burden Principal/Tumuaki

KEY DATES Monday 23 June Teacher Only Day - School Closed to all Students 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 July School Board Meeting, 5:30pm   Wednesday 23 & Thursday 24 July from 6:00 - 8:00pm NCEA Music Concerts Thursday 31 July Y10 Subject Selection Evening 6:00 - 8:00pm

DRAMATIC SHOOTOUT SECURES PREMIER SPOT

In a gripping clash that kept supporters on the edge of their seats to very last whistle, our First XI Boys’ Football team edged out Macleans College on Thursday to claim the final Auckland qualifying spot for the 2025 NZ Secondary Schools Lotto Premier Football Tournament. Both sides displayed great attacking flair and determination, resulting in a thrilling 3–3 deadlock at full-time. As extra time unfolded, and despite sustained pressure and several opportunities, neither team could find the breakthrough.

The outcome was finally decided by a tense penalty shootout that saw our boys hold their nerve to successfully convert four penalties to Macleans’ three, sealing a memorable victory. Special thanks goes to the enthusiastic Howick College supporters whose energy and encouragement lifted the team throughout the nail-biting encounter. This tenacious performance highlights the team’s resilience and skill, earning them a well-deserved place among the country’s elite school football teams at the upcoming National Premier Tournament.

Congratulations to all the players and coaching staff on an unforgettable win and a hard-earned spot on the national stage.

CELEBRATING MATARIKI 
Student Leadership and Cultural Connection

On Monday 16 June, students and staff at Howick College celebrated the spirit of Matariki by taking part in mahi a te rēhia – the traditional Māori arts of entertainment. Throughout the day, members of Paihere Rangatiratanga (our Māori student leadership council), ran workshops that featured games, creative activities, and performances that captured the joy, unity, and renewal associated with the Matariki season. The celebration embraced laughter, energy, connection, and reflection – all important elements for wellbeing and community spirit.

Poi Rākau Game: Whanaungatanga in Action (Top left)
Led by Henry Simon, AJ McConnell and Sierra Kino, this workshop introduced students to Poi Rākau, a traditional Māori stick game that emphasises listening, coordination, quick reactions, and teamwork. Games like this celebrate whanaungatanga connections and relationships), joy, and collective learning. During Matariki, families come together to connect with ancestors and cultural values, having fun while honouring the past.

Mau Rākau Workshop: Leadership in Action (Bottom Left)
Student leaders Solomon Anderson, Nicholas Connal, Shaniquah Taputoro-Coley, and Nasus Uelese guided participants through the traditional Māori art of Mau Rākau (weaponry). This workshop was about more than physical skill, it was an opportunity for cultural connection, discipline, and pride. Through their leadership, students experienced tohu o te wā (signs of the season) in a meaningful and engaging way.

Tā Moko – Moko Papa Workshop: Exploring Identity Through Art
Led by Anahera Ready, Rakim Vaha’akolo, Taylah Carter, and Thadeus Bourne, introduced students to the cultural significance of tā moko and moko papa. Participants explored how traditional Māori tattooing can express whakapapa, identity, and life journeys. After learning about the meaning behind designs, students had the chance to practise drawing their own, deepening their understanding of this sacred art form.

THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES

From left: Loiuse Jenning, Roshnee Kassan, Donna Brown, Stephanie Mason Phoenix Chu

At Howick College, our Counselling team plays a vital role in supporting student wellbeing. All members are highly trained professionals accredited by the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). Together, they bring a range of complementary skills, providing a safe, confidential space where students can be heard, supported, and empowered. Working closely with students, whānau, and staff, they foster positive mental health throughout our school community.

Leading the team is Donna Brown, our Head Counsellor, who is dedicated to equipping rangatahi with the knowledge and skills they need to live their best lives. Louise Jennings focuses on helping young people build confidence by discovering their strengths and embracing life’s challenges. Stephanie Mason works alongside students to nurture resilience and develop practical coping strategies, while Phoenix Chu supports rangatahi through meaningful kōrero, recognising the important role that culture, whānau, and identity play in their wellbeing. Roshnee Kassan works part-time and helps students explore their thoughts and feelings, guiding them towards personal growth and new ways of coping.

Their ongoing commitment, compassion, and expertise make a profound difference in the lives of our students, helping to build a supportive and resilient school community where every young person can thrive.

Students wishing to speak with a counsellor can self-refer at any time by visiting the counselling page on the Howick College website to make a confidential online referral.

FLASH FICTION WRITING COMPETITION

From left: Mrs Fleet, Monique Pulley, Archie Klein, Anahera Ready, Dejah Vaitai, Mr Burden. Absent: Saniya Gill

This term, our Year 9–13 English students took part in the latest round of the Flash Fiction Writing Competition. Each term, students are invited to craft a short story in response to a creative prompt and set of criteria. For Term 2, stories had to begin and end with a bicycle, include the words propelled, screeched, and deviating, use at least two descriptive techniques, demonstrate accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling, and stay within a 300-word limit.

The prompt sparked a range of thoughtful and imaginative entries, with students exploring diverse ideas and styles while meeting the challenge of writing with precision and creativity. All placegetters had their stories displayed in the library, and the winners of each year level received a certificate from Mr Burden.

Congratulations to the following year level winners:

Well done to all who took part. We look forward to seeing what term 3 brings!

ECE STUDENTS GAIN REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE

This term, our Year 12 Early Childhood Education students have been out on placement across several local early learning centres as part of the practical component of their course. They were joined at times by Principal Dale Burden and Teacher-in-Charge Mrs Bennie Spencer, who visited to see the students in action.

Early Childhood Education is a two-year vocational programme that prepares students with essential skills and knowledge to work with and support children in early childhood settings. A key component of this course is the compulsory work experience they complete at centres in our community. This hands-on experience gives students a unique opportunity to work directly with children and educators in a real-life setting. It’s often during these placements that students discover their passion for working with tamariki and begin to pursue pathways into early childhood or primary education.

Mr Burden was very impressed by the confidence, care and professionalism shown by our students, and by the warm, supportive environments provided by the centres hosting them. It’s rewarding to see just how valuable the practical component of this course is - helping to shape our students, excite them about their future, and build a sense of purpose as they begin their careers.

Thank you to our local early learning centres for continuing to support our students and for providing such meaningful learning environments.

NATIONAL SUCCESS FOR COSTUME DESIGNER 

Casey with her model at the SGCNZ National Festival

Congratulations to Year 12 student Casey Ferguson, whose costume design for Friar Lawrence in Romeo and Juliet was awarded third place in the prestigious SGCNZ Costume Design Competition. Her work was judged alongside entries from across the country and recognised for its creativity, symbolism, and stage practicality. Casey has also been selected to attend the National Shakespeare Schools Production (NSSP) in Wellington this October, where she will take on the role of costumier for the event. This honour places her in strong contention for the 2025 Young Shakespeare Company trip to London, where selected students have the chance to visit and perform at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Special thanks to Mrs Nikki Metcalfe, HoD Textiles and Teacher-in-Charge of the Costume Design Club, for  supporting and guiding Casey throughout this journey. Well done, Casey - a fantastic achievement and well-deserved recognition.

COMBINED SCHOOLS PLANTING DAY

On Friday 13 June, Howick College Enviro Group students joined Somerville Intermediate and Cockle Bay Primary Schools for a collaborative planting day at Mangemangeroa Reserve. Earlier in the week, environmental coordinator Levi Brinsdon-Hall led Somerville students, teachers, and parents in preparing the site.

The day offered hands-on conservation experience and valuable learning opportunities. After walking with Cockle Bay students to the reserve, participants learned about forest life cycles and native planting techniques. Working in mixed groups, they planted around 150 mature mahoe, porokaiwhiri, and putaputaweta trees, all grown from seeds collected in the reserve.

Students also sowed hundreds of seeds from kererū droppings and potted 89 taraire seedlings, ensuring future planting for 2026 and 2027. These efforts support native forest regeneration and highlight the vital role of native birds in the ecosystem.

This student-led initiative, funded by Auckland Council and the Howick Local Board, is part of a long-term effort to restore biodiversity and connect young people with their local environment.

INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

Our annual International Food Festival is one of the most anticipated events on the Howick College calendar. More than just a celebration of global cuisine, the festival is also a major fundraiser in support of our six school charities: SPCA, Mental Health Foundation, Blind Low Vision, Westpac Helicopter Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, and the NF2 Foundation.

With student-run stalls offering a delicious array of food from around the world, the event is a true showcase of culture, creativity, and community spirit. 

Tickets are available daily from the Student Office Foyer at interval and lunchtime.
Don't forget to bring your own food container to help us reduce waste.

SCHOOL BOARD NOTICE

The Howick College School Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Bruce Barrett to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Richard Tosh. Mr Barrett will serve for the remainder of the current mid-term, concluding on 21 November 2026.

STUDENT OFFICE REMINDERS

PHOTOLIFE ORDERS
Photolife photo orders are now available for collection from the Student Office.

LOST PROPERTY
We have a large number of unclaimed lost property items. If you’re missing clothing, shoes, drink bottles or other belongings, please pop into the Student Office to check. Any uncollected items will be donated to a local op-shop at the end of next week.

CAREERS DEPARTMENT NEWS

Careers Expo Inspires Future Pathways

Last week, 170 students had the chance to explore their future options at the Careers Expo organised by our Careers Department. The event brought together a diverse range of exhibitors, including universities from New Zealand and Australia, the Defence Force, skilled tradespeople, and private training providers.

Students took full advantage of the opportunity to walk around the venue, engage in meaningful conversations, and gather valuable information about the many pathways available to them. The expo provided an inspiring environment where students could ask questions, consider their options, and start planning for their next steps.

This event was an important step in helping our students feel informed and motivated about their futures, opening doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

Baby-Sitting Workshop

Twenty students recently took part in a babysitting workshop organised by the Careers Department and facilitated by Whānau Āwhina Plunket. This course covered essential childcare skills, safety, and responsibilities, equipping students with the knowledge and confidence to care for young children. It was great to see all students participate with enthusiasm and curiosity. At the end of the course, all participants proudly received a certificate of completion.

SPORTS NEWS

Free-style Scooter Rider on the Rise 

Year 11 student Boston Moke has become a standout name in the freestyle scooter scene and is currently the only New Zealander on a full contract with Root Industries — one of the world’s top scooter brands. What began just before the Covid lockdown as a personal hobby has developed into an international opportunity, with Boston now regularly travelling to Australia for competitions, promotional events, and gear testing.

His journey with Root Industries started when his current team manager invited him to trial and promote their wheels online. Just a month later, Boston was officially offered a place on the team. Since then, he’s tested prototype products, participated in photoshoots, and represented the brand in events — a role he takes seriously and is proud of.

Boston rides both street and park styles, but his preference lies with park riding, which focuses on ramps, boxes, and large aerial tricks. His favourite place to ride is The Village Indoor Skatepark in Brisbane, where he says the atmosphere, people, and layout make it an inspiring environment that elevates the sport.

His competitive record is equally impressive. He won the national 13 & Under Street title in his first competition and is currently ranked 7th in Oceania in the 17 & Under division. In 2023, he stepped up to the Open Men’s division at the SonSk8 Winter Series — a multi-weekend event — and came away with first place.

Boston is now focused on training for the upcoming Oceania Championships in Brisbane from 9–13 July. His long-term goal is to represent New Zealand at the World Championships or even the Olympics, should freestyle scootering become an Olympic sport.

Howick College is proud to support Boston as he continues to push boundaries in the sport and represent both his school and country on the international stage.

Rugby Girls Charge Towards the Playoffs

This week marked the beginning of a crucial three-game stretch as our Girls’ Rugby team builds momentum towards the Top Four playoffs. The campaign began in strong fashion with a commanding 42-7 win over a well-drilled Rosehill College side.

Despite a few early unforced errors disrupting their rhythm, the team settled into their game and took a 12-0 lead into halftime after two well-constructed tries. The return of several key players from injury in the second half proved decisive: Asha Taumopeau Williams made an immediate impact with a stunning 50-metre try; Levonah Motuliki crossed the line twice, showing strength and confidence as her ankle held up well under pressure; and Nane Samiu, returning from a knee issue, brought much-needed control at the breakdown and carried the ball powerfully.

With Malena Lavea injecting fresh energy and composure into the backline, and some effective adjustments to the attacking shape, the team found space and kept the scoreboard ticking over. As the light faded, and with no floodlights available, the girls maintained their intensity through the final quarter to close out a confident and well-earned victory.

The team now heads into a scheduled bye before two pivotal matches: a clash against Hamilton Girls’ High School in the first week of Term 3, followed by a rematch of last year’s final against Auckland Girls’ Grammar School.

Strong Performance from Y10 Black Boys' Football  

Last Saturday, our  Y10 Black football team took on King’s College at home in a hard fought match. Despite a 1–0 loss, the team showed real courage and commitment from start to finish. The narrow result against such tough opposition was a testament to their determination and teamwork. Captain Cody Barnett delivered a motivating halftime team talk that helped lift the boys through the second half. The Coaches’ Award went to Kiyan Rangi for his relentless efforts up front, and Player of the Day was awarded to Ben Hannaby for his outstanding defensive work.

Big thanks to Coach Rob Hannaby and referee KP Perfect for their support.

Premier Teams Sports Draw - Week 9

MONDAY 23 JUNE
1st XV Girls' Rugby - BYE

TUESDAY 24 JUNE
Premier Boys' Basketball vs Sacred Heart College, Venue: Elim College, Start: 5:00pm

WEDNESDAY 25 JUNE
Howick 1 Badminton vs TBC, Venue: TBC, Start: TBC
1st XI Girls' Football vs Lynfield College, Venue: Lynfield College, Kick-off: 4:00pm
1st XI Boys' Hockey vs St Kentigern College, Venue: St Kentigern College Turf 1, Start: 4:00pm

THURSDAY 26 JUNE
1st XI Girls' Hockey vs Mt Albert Grammar, Venue: LEP Turf 1, Start: 4:45pm

FRIDAY 27 JUNE
1st XI Boys' Football vs Rosmini College College, Venue: HOME GAME, Kick-Off: 3:00pm

SATURDAY 28 JUNE
Premier 1 Netball vs Auckland Girls' Grammar School, Venue: ANC Court A, Start:9:30am
1st XV Boys' Rugby Championship Round - TBA

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]

HOWICK COLLEGE LIBRARY - BOOK OF THE WEEK

The Book of Guilt by Catherine Chidgey