Term One Week 1
Principal's Message
This week has been full of exciting firsts for both our new staff and our new students. Our pōwhiri on Monday welcomed our Year 9 cohort and new staff, marking the beginning of their journey at Hastings Girls’ High School. For many, the day was filled with questions about school lunches, friendships, and what to expect. It was wonderful to see all our Year 9 students listening respectfully and presenting themselves so well. Early feedback from staff is that they are a delightful group who are settling in beautifully.
Take your time to form new friendships—choose people who uplift you and challenge you to be the best learner you can be. And remember to check the school notices during Ākina time so you don’t miss out on any sports or cultural opportunities starting up. To our new staff who have already been swept into the rhythm of school life, I know you will quickly adapt to our school kawa and feel well supported.
My own mihi whakatau was a fantastic experience, and I have returned to HGHS feeling genuinely welcomed by the girls, staff, and wider community. This feeling only grew stronger as I moved around the school during interval and lunchtime this week. My initial impression of our students is that they are courteous, confident, and kind—qualities we strive to nurture in all our girls. We truly have a vibrant learning environment. Next week, I will be visiting classes to see how students are settling in and to witness some of the great learning already underway.
To our senior students who have returned—congratulations on your NCEA results. Our Level 1 results have improved from last year, laying a strong foundation for continued academic success. A special congratulations to those who earned Merit and Excellence certificate endorsements. Our Merit endorsement rates across all levels are higher than those of comparable schools, and our Excellence endorsement rates at Levels 1 and 2 are also above those of similar schools. Invitations have been sent to all parents for our first Academic Assembly of the year on 23 February at 11am in the School Hall. We would love for you to join us in celebrating these achievements together.
Waitangi weekend is one many of us are looking forward to. Whether you are gathering with friends or whānau, travelling, or simply taking time to relax, I wish you safe travels and a restful break. I look forward to seeing everyone back next week.
Ngā mihi nui
Mrs Lisa Akers
Student Safety: Important Drop-off & Pick-up Reminders
The safety of our students is our absolute priority, and we need your help to keep our school gates a safe space for everyone.
As you will have noticed, we have installed new gates to manage traffic flow. These gates mean that parent vehicles can no longer drive into the main school grounds during peak times. We have implemented this change following several "near misses" and to ensure that our students can enter and exit the school safely on foot.
Pick-up and Drop-off Safety
For the safety of our students, we kindly ask that families use Frimley Road, Pakowhai Road, or Fitzroy Avenue for pick-ups and drop-offs rather than driving into the school grounds. To ensure student safety, we ask that all vehicles remain outside the school premises unless you are visiting the Student Centre or Office for official business. Please encourage students to use the crossing and not run across the road to get to you.
When parking or stopping nearby, please remember to:
Respect all road markings (including yellow lines).
Avoid blocking residential driveways—let's be great neighbours!
Do not park on footpaths, as this forces students to walk onto the road.
Please do not stop on the road to pick up students - we ask that you find a safe parking place.
Your cooperation helps keep our school community safe and ensures a smooth start and end to the day for all. Thank you for your continued support and for looking out for our students!
Representing Our Youth!
A huge congratulations to Payton Tautau, our Academic Captain, and Paige Cunningham, our Blue House Captain, who have been selected to represent rangatahi on the Hastings Youth Council.
It’s fantastic to see our students stepping up to ensure young people have a strong voice in our district. We’re excited to see the positive impact you will make and to follow your journey over the year ahead.
Weekly Sports Update
Final Call for Sign-Ups and Week 2 Schedule
While most of our teams are filling up fast, the whistle hasn't blown just yet. If you missed the initial sign-up window, you have a tiny bit of extra time to get involved in some of our most exciting codes.
Last Chance to Join!
We still have a few limited spots available in the following sports:
Pickleball: Fast-paced, social, and easy to learn.
Cricket: Get out on the pitch and represent the school.
Water & Canoe Polo: Perfect for those who love the pool and a bit of a challenge.
Tennis: Sharpen your serve and enjoy some summer sets.
Deadline: All final sign-ups close this Wednesday 11 February. To secure your spot, contact the Sports Department office ASAP. Don't leave it until the last minute!
Ngā mihi, Finn and Fale
📣CALLING ALL COACHES🏆
Our sports programmes thrive because of our amazing coaches. Expressions of interest are still open for all sports. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate beginner looking to give back, we’d love to hear from you!
Interested? Please email our Sports Coordinator, Finn, at fma@hastingsgirls.com to put your name forward.
Week 2 Training and Game Schedule
Get your gear ready! Here is what’s happening on the turf, the court, and the water this week:
Monday
Waka Ama: Training 3-5pm Clive River
Volleyball (Senior A): Training 3-5pm HGHS Gym
Tuesday
Volleyball (Senior A): Game Time TBC Pettigrew Green Arena
Wednesday
Waka Ama Training: 3-5pm Clive River
Kī o Rahi Training: 3-4.30pm HGHS Fields
Thursday
Volleyball (Senior A): Training: 3-5pm HGHS Gym
Important Dates
Monday 9 February
Experience Waikato Senior Trip
School Assembly
e-asTTle Testing all week
Kapa Haka Practice/Parent Hui after school
Monday 16 February
Senior Goal Setting
House Assembly
Thursday 19 February
Year 9 Whānau BBQ (postponed from Tuesday 17 February)
School Calendar
With a busy term ahead, we want to make sure every family stays up to date with the latest happenings at school! Please take time to read our school calendar.
School Calendar Link
Menu - Week 2
