Term One Week 2
Principal's Message
Tēnā koutou katoa
As a school, we are continuing to grow our academic success across all year levels, ensuring every student is supported to achieve to their potential. With the recent appointment of our Learning Support Co-ordinator, we are beginning to establish a range of programmes that provide both extension and targeted support where it is needed most. I am very much looking forward to seeing how Dr Kate Elworthy develops this important area of our school.
This work will strengthen the support we offer around literacy and numeracy, including preparation for the co-requisite examinations, which are essential for students to achieve their NCEA qualifications. Strong foundations matter, and this focus ensures every girl has the best opportunity to succeed.
Thank you, as always, for your support of our attendance expectations. We encourage students to have no more than 5 days away from school each term, which is just 1 week per term. We know that regular attendance has a direct impact on learning outcomes — even high-achieving students can see their results shift when attendance drops. Learning is like building a house: it begins with a strong foundation. When attendance is inconsistent, gaps form and learning can suffer. Supporting your daughter to arrive at school on time, ready to learn, and in correct uniform helps her build that strong foundation for success.
This week, we were proud to take part in a short video message sent to our sister city of Guilin in China to celebrate the Chinese New Year. Elise Hooper, Shilou Fromont-Rose, and Bella Lange-Wereta shared a message of joy and wished the people of Guilin a happy new year on behalf of our students, staff, and the wider Hastings community. This message will be viewed by approximately 7 million people — a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school on an international stage.
Finally, congratulations to Payton Tautau and Paige Cunningham on their selection to the Hastings Youth Council. I know you will represent our school with pride, and I look forward to seeing the positive contributions and projects you will be involved in.
Ngā mihi nui
Mrs Lisa Akers
Meet Dr Kate Elworthy - Learning Support Coordinator
A message from our DP - Emma Jensen
Showing Up Strong - A Message on Attendance
Welcome back to a brand-new year! It has been great to see so many familiar faces filling the halls again. Currently, our school-wide attendance is sitting at 86.7%. While this is a solid start, we know we can do even better together!
At HGHS, our mantra is simple: “Being on time and ready to learn.” Consistent attendance isn’t just about showing up; it’s about giving yourself the best possible chance to succeed, connect with your peers, and make the most of every opportunity.
Stepping into the Future: Our Ākonga Experience Life at Waikato University
This week, twenty-one of our Year 12 and 13 ākonga had the wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves in university life at the University of Waikato. As an academically innovative kura, we value these "beyond the classroom" experiences that help our students visualise their own unique pathways.
Over two nights, our girls lived and dined in the Halls of Residence, getting a true taste of the independence and excitement that awaits them after graduation. Joining a group of 280 secondary students from across the country, they engaged in workshops and connected with current university students, hearing firsthand about the diverse journeys that lead to success.
It wasn’t all study, though! The trip fostered a great sense of whanaungatanga (connection), with highlights including a movie night in town and a fun quiz evening alongside students from other schools.
A huge thank you to the University of Waikato for hosting our girls and providing a safe, inspiring environment for them to explore their potential. This experience has left our students feeling empowered and ready to lead their own stories as they plan for the years ahead.
Senior A Volleyball
Our Senior A Volleyball team began their 2026 campaign on Tuesday with a strong performance against Napier Girls.
After dropping the first set, the girls showed great composure and determination to respond, lifting their intensity and working effectively as a unit. Strong serving pressure and disciplined defence allowed them to take control of the match, winning the next three sets to secure a 3–1 victory.
It was an encouraging first outing for the team, with excellent communication on court and positive leadership throughout the game. This result sets a strong foundation as they continue building towards Nationals in March.
Well done to the team on a confident and well-earned opening win.
Summer Sports Trainings Underway
Trainings have now begun for all our summer sports:
Waka Ama
Ki o Rahi
Touch
Rugby League
It is great to see so many students getting involved.
Week 3 Training and Game Schedule
Monday 16th
Senior A Volleyball Training | 3:00 – 5:00pm | School Gym
Waka Ama Training | 3:15 – 5:00pm | Vans depart to Clive River
Tuesday 17th
Senior A Volleyball Games | 4:00 – 9:00pm | Pettigrew Green Arena
Touch Rugby Training | TBC (Check school notices)
Wednesday 18th
Rugby League Training | 3:00 – 5:00pm | School Fields
Kī o Rahi Training | 3:00 – 4:30pm | School Fields
Thursday 19th
Touch Rugby Games | Time TBC | Sports Park
Senior A Volleyball Training | 3:00 – 5:00pm | School Gym
Friday 20th
Kī o Rahi Games | 3:15 – 5:30pm | Whare Tapere
High Energy & Proud
Our girls are making waves across the ditch! Last Sunday, Teiyah Fomai and Maddy Seumanutafa stepped out for the U17 Newcastle Knights in their season opener against the Cronulla Sharks.
This was a massive milestone for both athletes—especially for Teiyah, who celebrated her debut for the team! Maddy, now in her second season with the Knights, showed her experience and skill by crossing the line for a fantastic try.
The Knights dominated the field with a 24–6 win, and we couldn't be prouder of the grit and talent these two showed.
Huge congratulations, Teiyah and Maddy! We are cheering for you from home.
National Stage Success for Pattreece!
A huge shout-out to Pattreece Andersen who flew south to Christchurch last weekend for the 2026 Youth Touch Nationals!
Playing for the Manawatu U16 girls, Pattreece and her team delivered an outstanding performance, narrowly missing the semi-finals after a hard-fought battle against the tournament winners.
We love seeing our students excel in diverse arenas and represent HGHS with such talent and sportsmanship. We are incredibly proud of your efforts, Pattreece!
Important Dates
Monday 16 February
Senior Goal Setting
House Assembly
Junior Student ICT Induction
Tuesday 17 February
HGHS BOT Meeting
Wednesday 18 February
Student Leader Photos
Thursday 19 February
Year 9 Whānau BBQ
Monday 23 February
School Assembly - Leaders Badges/ Endorsment Ceremony
Wednesday 25 February
Year 10 Outdoor Hub Coastal Exploration Day Trip
Friday 26 February
International Students Mayoral Visit and Welcome
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 3
