Principal’s Message
Ngā mihi o te Aranga — Easter blessings to you all
As we come to the end of a short but vibrant nine‑week term, I want to acknowledge the many events, sports, celebrations, and learning opportunities that have filled our kura with energy. The true highlight for me has been getting to know our girls and our staff. Our values of manaakitanga and whakawhanaungatanga are clearly alive in our school — I see them every day as I move through classrooms and shared spaces. Thank you for the warmth you have shown not only to me, but also to our new staff and students. Your kindness shapes the culture of our kura.
This spirit of community was beautifully captured recently when our Level 1 Music students put on a wonderful lunchtime concert for whānau and staff. It was an absolute pleasure to see our students shine and share their passion for music; the talent on display is a testament to their hard work and creativity. Furthermore, today our Te Ao Haka students visited Gracelands Retirement Village, entertaining our elderly neighbours through the power of waiata. I heard wonderful feedback about how our rangatahi lifted the wairua of our kaumātua—a moving example of our school values in action within the wider community.
In the sporting arena, we have much to celebrate! Huge congratulations to our Senior A Volleyball team on an outstanding achievement—taking out the Hawke’s Bay Division 1 competition this week. Beating Karamu in straight sets to finish the season undefeated is a remarkable feat and a true reflection of your hard work and teamwork. This win marks an incredible milestone for our kura, as it is now three titles in a row! A special shoutout to Imila, Blake, Kiera, and Hazel for being named in the Tournament Team, and an extra congratulations to Imila for being named Tournament MVP. You have all represented our school with immense pride and mana.
Last Thursday, we were also delighted to host Year 8 students from our contributing schools. This visit is an important opportunity for them to experience what learning looks and feels like at Hastings Girls’ High School, and to see the unique strengths of a girls’ school environment — a place where our rangatahi can truly be themselves. Our student leaders and senior students proudly shared their journeys, achievements, and aspirations. I spoke with the Year 8s about our kura being a big whānau — a place where the girls care deeply for their teachers, and the teachers care deeply for the girls. I encouraged them to share any activities or opportunities they would love to see here; we are always open to new ideas that help our girls thrive.
If any parents or caregivers would like to meet with me to discuss how we can best support your daughter, please feel welcome to book an appointment. Hastings Girls’ is a school for all girls — whether their passions are in sport, academics, culture, the arts, or beyond. Our Open Evening will be held in August, and we look forward to welcoming you then.
A heartfelt thank‑you to our whānau who have been working alongside us to lift attendance. We have seen a significant improvement, and we know that strong attendance leads to stronger learning outcomes. This progress reflects a true community effort — our external providers, attendance team, Ākina coaches, and whānau all working together. What a beautiful korowai of support we have wrapped around our girls. Ka rawe.
Finally, we are excited to announce that HGHS has been given two Outward Bound scholarships for the Kaweka Course, running from 2 June to 22 June 2026 in Picton. This three-week adventure is an incredible opportunity for students to step away from the noise, challenge themselves in the great outdoors, and return with a stronger sense of self. If your daughter is interested, more information is available at outwardbound.co.nz. Applications should be made in writing to Mrs. Moli at by Friday, 10 April, explaining their interest and how the course will benefit.
DP Pastoral Update
As we come to the end of a busy and productive term, I would like to acknowledge the positive start our students have made to the year. It has been great to see students settling into their learning, setting goals, and engaging well across their subjects.
As we head into Easter and the school holidays, this is a good opportunity for students to reflect on their progress so far and consider what they want to achieve in Term 2. Whānau, your support in having these conversations at home makes a real difference.
Looking ahead, we have a number of important dates early next term. Junior reports will be released on Friday 1 May, followed by Parent–Teacher Interviews on Thursday 7 May. These are valuable opportunities for students and whānau to connect with teachers, celebrate progress, and discuss next steps for learning.
We will also be hosting an NCEA Information Evening on Thursday 23 April at 6pm in the school hall, to help simplify the NCEA process for our community. We strongly encourage senior students and their whānau to attend. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and better understand how NCEA works, and how you can work together to support success.
A key focus moving into next term will be preparation for the Literacy and Numeracy exams in May. Students who have been selected to sit these assessments should continue to engage in learning conversations with their teachers so they feel confident and well prepared. Whānau can support by checking in regularly and encouraging consistent preparation.
To support this, we will continue to offer tutoring opportunities in the library, supported by our fantastic student tutors. Sessions will run before and after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with more details confirmed at the start of next term. Students who would like to attend are encouraged to take up this opportunity. If you would like to register your daughter, please contact Kate Elworthy ().
We are also continuing to seek reader/writer support for NCEA assessments, as well as relievers to join our school community. These are valuable ways to support our students and contribute to their learning. For reader/writer roles, training is provided where needed, and there is a small stipend available. If you are interested, please contact Kate Elworthy for further information.
Thank you to our students for the effort you have shown this term, and to our whānau for your ongoing support. I hope everyone enjoys a well-earned break over Easter and the holidays, and we look forward to welcoming you back refreshed and ready for Term 2.
Outward Bound Scholarship Opportunity: Kaweka Course 2026
Hastings Girls’ High School is proud to offer two exclusive scholarships for the Outward Bound Kaweka Course, running from 2-22 June 2026 in Picton. This classic three-week experience is designed for those ready to step away from the noise of daily life and dive into a world of hiking native bush, paddling open waters, and mastering team-based problem-solving. More than just an outdoor adventure, this course is a journey of self-discovery that helps you define your values and build the resilience needed to show up confidently in the world.
If you are ready for the challenge, please visit Click Here for more information
To apply, submit a written application to Mrs Moli at no later than Friday 10 April explaining why you want to participate and how this experience will shape your future.
Sun, Science, and Sea Species!
Our Level 2 Biology students had an amazing day at Ahuriri exploring the incredible marine life that calls the rocky shore home. By collecting data from the low tide all the way up to the high tide mark, they were able to see firsthand how different species choose their spot on the shore.
We couldn’t have asked for better weather and finished the day with a lovely walk along the boardwalk to soak up the last of the sun. Such a great day of science in action!
100% Attendance SuperStars
Free sushi tastes better when you’ve earned it!
Attendance was incredible again this week, and Indie and Cecelia are our lucky $20 voucher winners. Congratulations to you both for your awesome consistency.
Let’s keep up the great work in Term 2.
Holiday Rehearsal Schedule
Fiafia Groups
A reminder to students in the Cook Island, Samoan, Fijian, and Sabhyachar groups that rehearsals will take place this Wednesday 15 April from 10am to 2pm.
Students should meet in the Hall foyer upon arrival to be directed to their practice spaces. To ensure safety and maximise practice time, students will remain on school grounds for the duration of the rehearsal. Please ensure they arrive with a packed lunch and a drink bottle.
U-Shop Holiday Hours
Getting ready for the new term?
Our U-Shop will be open for three days during the holidays to help with all your uniform needs!
Opening Hours:
Thursday 16 April, 2pm – 6pm
Friday 17 April, 2pm – 6pm
Saturday 18 April, 9am – 1pm
Please head along during these times to pick up any winter uniform essentials or replacements before school starts back.
For a full list of our regular Term 2 hours, please refer to the school website. Calendar Link
Holiday Sports Trainings
Senior A Netball – Monday 6th & 13th April | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | School Gym
Junior A Netball – Tuesday 7th & 14th April | 3:00pm – 5:00pm | School Gym
With Term Two just around the corner, our schedule is already filling up with a wide range of events and activities. To ensure you don’t miss out on any important dates or opportunities, please make sure to check our school calendar regularly for the latest updates.