Term Two Week 1
Principal's Message
Tēnā koutou katoa e ngā whānau
I hope you all had a safe and enjoyable holiday. It is with honour and privilege to be the Acting Principal for Term 2, serving our school, students, and community.
We’ve had a great start to the term with our ANZAC Assembly on Monday and we would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to our special guest who attended from the New Zealand Air Force, the Army, and our local Hawke's Bay bagpiper. Their presence helped us mark the occasion with the respect and reflection it deserves.
It is great to see our students settling back into school. This term, we have a range of exciting events coming up. Our students are working hard to prepare for these events and we would like to extend our gratitude to our whānau for their support behind the scenes.
Te Rōpū Manu Huia is preparing for the upcoming regional Kapa Haka competition on 23 May. They have been working hard through their wānanga since the start of the year and we wish them all the best as they continue their preparations.
Our Showquest is coming up in Week 4 which is really exciting. Many students and staff are involved and are working tirelessly to ensure the event will be amazing.
Winter sports also kick off this week, with a big day tomorrow as all of our netball teams begin their grading matches. We wish all teams the very best of luck. A reminder to our students and whānau to show respect on and off the court— represent our kura with pride, and be great sports.
Our Level 2 Outdoor Education class are heading off to the Bay of Islands this weekend. We wish them a safe journey and know this will be an enriching and unforgettable learning experience.
In Week 2, we look forward to welcoming our Moana-nui-a-Kiwa Pou whānau to the whānau engagement hui. This will be a great opportunity to connect and kōrero together.
There is so much to look forward to this term. Please keep an eye on our calendar for upcoming events.
Ngā manaakitanga ki a koutou katoa
Whaea Evelyn
Acting Principal
What to Expect – HGHS Past Students’ Networking Evening
We’ve had a great response so far to our HGHS Past Students’ Networking Evening next Friday 9 May, 5.30–8.30pm in the School Library – and we know some of you are wondering what to expect.
It’s going to be relaxed, warm and welcoming – a chance to:
- Catch up with old friends
- Meet past students from different years
- Enjoy drinks and nibbles
- Take a look around the school and see what’s changed (and what hasn’t)
- Share your ideas for what the HGHS Past Students’ Network could become
This is just the beginning and we’d love your input. Should we host other social events? Organise decade reunions? Form small planning committees? Create opportunities for past students to inspire current students, or help gather and preserve school archives?
We’ll be collecting suggestions and contact details on the night. Let’s build something meaningful together.
Student Safety Alert
We have received reports of a suspicious vehicle in the Frimley area, possibly following students on their way to and from school. As a precaution, we are asking all families to be extra vigilant.
Please take a moment to speak with your daughters about staying safe—encourage them to walk in groups where possible, avoid talking to strangers, and report anything unusual to a trusted adult straight away.
Student safety is our top priority, and we appreciate your support in helping keep everyone safe.
Celebrate NZ Sign Language Week with Us!
Imagine an Aotearoa where anyone can sign, anywhere – on a plane, in the library, at school, chatting from a distance, or even underwater!
Ready to join the fun? Put your hands up and start signing!
Learn one sign a day and visit www.nzslweek.org.nz to get involved. Let’s celebrate New Zealand Sign Language and help make our communities more inclusive, one sign at a time.
International Students Welcomed to Hawke’s Bay
Late last term, our wonderful international students along with international students from across the region were formally welcomed to Hawke’s Bay by the Mayor of Hastings and the Deputy Mayor of Napier. It was a special occasion filled with vibrant entertainment, delicious food, and a strong sense of community.
A special shout-out to our amazing student Sophia Mabalcon who gave a brilliant and inspiring speech on behalf of the international students. We are so proud of you, Sophia!
An Unforgettable Adventure
Our journey started with leaving school at 7:30pm on Saturday night. I didn't sleep on the way to Wellington, so I was tired by the time we got on the ferry at 2am. After a pretty uncomfortable nap we made it to Picton at around 5:30am. I slept almost the entire way to Nelson where we stopped and had a yummy breakfast at this cute little cafe. On the way to Marahau we stopped at Kaiteriteri Beach and had a very cold but refreshing swim in the beautiful clear water, as well as a little nap in the sun. We then finally made it to the campground just before lunch and slept the rest of the afternoon.
The next morning we all woke up early to get a briefing on how to use the kayaks for the day. Once that had finished we drove down to the beach and off we went. I feel so grateful to have the privilege to kayak past amazing scenery as well as spotting some seals chilling on the rocks. We had an amazing time and made it to our first campground before our bags had arrived on the water taxi. So some of us had a swim in the beautiful water as we waited. We set up camp, scaring off any Weka that tried to steal our food which miserably failed and went to bed as we had to wake up at 5am to get ready so we could walk the low tide crossing.
Low tide that day was at 6:30am so we were gone just after 7am. By doing the low tide crossing it allowed us to cut down our hike by over an hour so we got to our next campground pretty early. We then again set up camp and had the whole afternoon to swim, rest and explore. The next day we had a small little sleep in before hearing the new plan for the day. Due to the heavy rain that was going to fall the teachers decided that we were going to walk to Onetahuti Bay to get picked up by the water taxi a day early. Off we went in our rain jackets and bright orange rain covers over our packs. We didn't realise how steep some of the hills we had to climb were. As we were pushing though we were thinking about the beds we would be sleeping in and the hot showers that were waiting for us when we got back. When we finally arrived back in Marahau we chilled out for the rest of the day. The next day Zaire thought it would be a great idea if we did an open mic karaoke night, so we all split off into little groups or pairs and came up with a dance to a song we had to sing as well as coming together as a group and choreographing a group dance to show to the teachers at the end of the day.
The next morning we left early in order to make it to Picton on time where we would catch the ferry back home. Once we arrived in Wellington we had a necessary stop at McDonalds and KFC for dinner and did carpool karaoke on the way back to school. After numerous games of mafia, singing and laughing with everyone and unforgettable memories I can proudly say that has to be the best camp I have ever been on.
Annah Frazerhurst, Year 13
NZ Defence Force Visit Inspires Future Pathways
On Monday, we were fortunate to welcome Star and Nate from the NZ Defence Force recruitment team who spoke with students interested in pursuing a career in the armed services.
They shared their personal career journeys which have taken them all over the world and gave students a valuable insight into the wide range of trades and roles available across the NZ Army, Navy, and Air Force.
For those considering enlisting, Star and Nate also outlined the entry requirements and recruitment process, helping students understand what it takes to be part of the Defence Force. It was an informative and inspiring session that opened up exciting future possibilities.
NZ Defence Force Visit Inspires Future Pathways
On Monday, we were fortunate to welcome Star and Nate from the NZ Defence Force recruitment team who spoke with students interested in pursuing a career in the armed services.
They shared their personal career journeys which have taken them all over the world and gave students a valuable insight into the wide range of trades and roles available across the NZ Army, Navy, and Air Force.
For those considering enlisting, Star and Nate also outlined the entry requirements and recruitment process, helping students understand what it takes to be part of the Defence Force. It was an informative and inspiring session that opened up exciting future possibilities.
Basketball Success for Maieke and Keija
Congratulations to Maieke Thompson and former Hastings Girls' student Keija Miringaorangi who were runners-up in the regional final at the Mel Young Under 18 Easter Basketball Tournament run by Basketball Pacific in Tauranga.
The team put up a strong fight, finishing 71-83 against Tauranga. We are so proud of their outstanding effort and the way they represented their region on such a big stage!
Maddy Seumanutafa Shines on the Rugby League Stage
Term 1 has been incredibly busy yet immensely successful for Year 11 student Maddy Seumanutafa, whose natural talent and dedication to Rugby League have truly shone through.
A major highlight was her selection to the U17 Junior Knights team in Australia where she spent much of the term competing at a high level and representing New Zealand on the international stage. The experience challenged her, refined her skills, and contributed to her continued growth as a player.
Returning home, Maddy wasted no time, immediately representing Manawatū in the U16 grade at the Youth Rugby League Nationals. Winning the final was a proud moment that reflected her hard work and commitment.
Just a week later, she was back on the field, playing for the Raukawa ki runga (RKR) U17s Kōtiro team at the Aotearoa Māori Kōtiro Tournament. Her team secured an impressive third-place finish and Maddy’s individual performance stood out once again. She was selected for the U17 Tournament team, earning a place to represent Aotearoa New Zealand Māori at the Pacific Youth Tournament in October.
To top it all off, Maddy was named Player of the Tournament—an incredible recognition of her leadership, skills, and impact on the game.
Maddy’s future in Rugby League is incredibly bright and we are so proud of her achievements. Her journey is just beginning and we can’t wait to see all she accomplishes both here in New Zealand and beyond.
Elise Hooper Shines at U14 Go Hockey Super Challenge
Congratulations to Year 10 student Elise Hooper who took part in the Go Hockey U14 Super Challenge over the holidays as a member of the Force team representing the Central North Island.
The event began with training sessions, team-building activities, and an opening ceremony, setting the tone for an exciting few days of competition. Elise’s team played to a 4-4 draw with Heat and a 1-1 draw against Thunder, followed by a 1-0 win over Storm that earned them a place in the final. In a tough match, they narrowly lost 2-0 to Heat, finishing in a well-earned second place.
The challenge was a fantastic opportunity for young players like Elise to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and build strong team connections.
Well done, Elise – we’re proud of your achievement and can’t wait to see what you do next!
Sports Games/Trainings
Please use link below to access the Netball Grading Games for tomorrow
Link to Netball Hawke's Bay
Important Dates For Term 2
Monday 5 May
House Assembly
Wednesday 7 May
HGHS BOT Meeting
Year 12 Students - Road Safe HB
Student Committee Team Building Day
Thursday 8 May
Year 9 and 10 Te Moana nui ā KIWA /Pasifka Whānau Engagement
Friday 9 May
Junior Reports
Footnote Dance Company Workshop
HB International Students Mini Games Competition
TRMH Kapa Haka Wānanga
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Monday 12 May
Learner Licensing with Constable Chris
House Assembly
Tuesday 13 May
Architecture talk by Hilary Finn
Year 10 Outdoor Hub - Te Mata Peak practice tramps
Year 10 Sports Science Gym visits
Wednesday 14 May
BP Business Challenge Day 1
Thursday 15 May
BP Business Challenge Day 2
Friday 16 May
BP Business Challenge Day 3
Otago University presentation to Year 12 and Year 13 students
Pink Shirt Day
Senior Reports
School Calendar
Please keep an eye on the school calendar to ensure that students are arriving at school prepared for the day's activities. You can find the calendar in the drop down menu of our website or click on the link below
Link to School Calendar
Menu - Week 2
