Term Three Week 4
Principal's Message
Kia ora e te whānau
This week the spirit of our kura has been on full display — filled with colour, connection, and the powerful voices of our future leaders.
We were privileged to hear from a remarkable group of senior students who put themselves forward for 2026 student leadership positions. The number of applicants was overwhelming, and each one stood proudly on stage, speaking with purpose and heart. The themes that emerged were striking: a commitment to our values, a desire to serve others, a clear vision for the future, and the importance of leaving behind a legacy for those who will follow. It is clear that our students care deeply about this kura, and that they understand the significance of student voice in shaping the direction we move in together. The courage and maturity shown in these speeches was both humbling and inspiring, and it bodes well for the future of Ngā Rau Huia o Ākina.
Adding to the vibrancy of the week was our Cultural Day celebration — a powerful reminder of the richness of our community. The school has been alive with colour, music, and stories as students shared what makes their cultures unique. Our Hall has been transformed with displays that reflect pride in whakapapa and identity, and our lunchtime activities gave everyone the opportunity to learn, ask questions, and appreciate the beautiful diversity that exists within our kura. These experiences are more than just celebrations — they are moments of learning that help build empathy, respect, and belonging. They remind us that the more we understand each other, the stronger our community becomes.
Beyond the kura, national conversations are taking place around the future of NCEA. This week, the Minister of Education released a proposal outlining significant changes to the qualification. While these changes will not affect students currently in Year 9 and above, they signal an important shift in how secondary education may look in the coming years. We encourage all whānau to stay informed and have your say. As a school, we remain committed to providing a curriculum that is rigorous, future-focused, and responsive to the needs of our ākonga and community. More information about the proposed changes and the consultation process can be found later in this pānui.
Ngā mihi nui to all those who continue to contribute to the life of our kura. It is through the efforts of our students, staff, and whānau that these special moments are made possible.
Ngā manaakitanga
Catherine Bentley
Benchmark Exam Information
Our Level 1, 2, and 3 students are preparing for their Benchmark Exams – an important chance to check your progress and identify areas to work on before the end-of-year assessments. Use this time wisely: plan your revision, review your notes, and practise past papers.
Top 3 Study Tips for Success:
Make a plan – Break your revision into manageable chunks and stick to a timetable.
Practise, practise, practise – Use past papers to get familiar with question styles and timing.
Rest well – Balance study with good sleep, healthy food, and short breaks to keep your mind fresh.
We wish all our students the very best – your hard work now will pay off later!
When: Week 6 – Monday 18 to Friday 22 August
Who: All senior students
Please click the link below to access the Benchmark Examination Timetable
If you have any questions, please speak to your subject teacher first, and then to Mr Pera if you need further information.
Ākina Photos now on Sale
Ākina Group photos are now available to purchase online. These are a great keepsake to remember your time at Hastings Girls’ High School and the friends you’ve shared it with.
Please use the link below to view and order your photos. Orders can be placed directly through the site, and delivery details will be provided at checkout.
Link to order photos
Keen to become a Homestay?
Te Ahua and Maieke Dive into Health Careers at MASH Programme
Huge congratulations to Te Ahua and Maieke who were accepted into the MASH Programme through Whakapiki Ake and spent four incredible days at the University of Auckland during the holidays!
MASH (Māori Achieving Success in Health) is a kaupapa designed to support Māori students on their journey into health careers. Held at Waipapa Taumata Rau – University of Auckland, the four-day experience brings together academically talented and culturally grounded tauira, all working toward improving health outcomes for Māori communities.
Here’s what Te Ahua had to say about the experience:
“The trip was absolutely amazing. I had such a good time – I stepped out of my comfort zone and made heaps of new friends. I got to learn about life at Auckland University and their hospital.
I’m so grateful to have met my group ‘Rōpū Whā’, such amazing people. I was struggling to decide what university and courses I wanted to do but this trip definitely settled things for me."
100% Attendance Superstars
This week’s winners of our 100% attendance are Marlene and Niranjana – ka mau te wehi! Your consistency, attitude, and effort are inspiring. We’re proud of you!
Keep showing up, stay engaged… next week it could be you!
Upcoming Careers Dates
Friday 8 August
University of Otago Course Planning | 1.45pm | T2 Student Centre
Thursday 14 August
StudyLink Student Loan/ Student Allowance talk | 1.45pm | Library
Friday 15 August
University of Canterbury Course Planning | 9.45am | Library
Tuesday 19 August
University of Waikato Course Planning | 9.45am | Library
Tuesday 26 August
Defensive Driving Course (places still available, email gi@hastingsgirls.com if interested)
Tuesday 2 September
Victoria University Course Planning | 1.45pm | Library
Wednesday 3 September
Whakapiki Ake - STEM session for Year 9 Māori students
Tuesday 9 September
Massey University Course Planning | 11.20 | Library
Radiation Therapy Career information talk | 8.30am | Library
1st XV Rugby PTS Cup Champions
Last weekend, our 1st XV Rugby team travelled to Feilding High School for the PTS Cup Finals to take on Napier Girls’. Despite the poor weather and a very muddy surface, the girls played some fantastic rugby. Leading 24-0 at halftime, they kept the pressure on throughout the game. Napier came out strong in the second half, scoring two tries in the corner, but our girls’ relentless attack saw them cross the line four more times. When the final whistle blew, the score was 50-10, crowning our girls as the inaugural winners of the competition.
A big thank you to PTS Logistics for sponsoring the competition and giving our girls more games to play. Also, thanks to Feilding High School for organising the tournament and for their fantastic hospitality during the finals.
Our girls will now face St Mary’s College (Wellington) in the Hurricanes Region Semi Finals next week. We wish them all the best for this exciting next challenge!
Menu for Week 5
Important Dates
Monday 11 August
Tongan Language Week
2026 Student Leader Interviews
Frimley School Cross Country Marshalling
Student Lead Assembly
2026 Student Leader Interviews
Whakapiki Ako - Selected Yr 11 Science Students
Tuesday 12 August
2026 Student Leader Interviews
Fiafia Night
Wednesday 13 August
House Quiz
Nominations for the BOT Close
Thursday 14 August
Level 2/3 OUT Bush/Mountain Camp
Studylink - Student Loan Presentation
Friday 15 August
Canterbury University presentation to Year 12 and Year 13 Students in the Library
House Debating Finals
Sunday 17 August
Dance NZ Made Solos, Duos and Trios
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Monday 18 August
Benchmark Examinations
Dance NZ Made Troupes
Tuesday 19 August
University of Waikato Course Planning
Waikato University Course Planning
Wednesday 20 August
Japanese Group Sightseeing
BOT Voting Begins
Year 10 Exploring the Outdoors Hub - Kuripapango Tramp
Thursday 21 August
University of Victoria Open Day | Kaupapa Māori Haerenga
Friday 22 August
Filipino Language Week
School Calendar
We have another busy term ahead so 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
School Calendar Link