Term Two Week 4

Maurēē, Malo e lelei, Bula vinaka, Talofa lava, Mālō ni, Namaste, Kumusta, Talofa

Last night’s Fiafia Festival was truly the highlight of my week. I would like to acknowledge the incredible amount of work that went into making the evening such a success. Thank you to the many staff members who supported and organised the event, to our student leaders and performers, and to the parents and whānau who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

Over the past few weeks, I have had the privilege of hearing the rehearsals echo through our school and watching the girls prepare for the stage. Seeing everything come together last night was incredibly special. What stood out to me most was the way each group supported one another and the joy the girls experienced being part of something that celebrated their culture, identity, and pride. It was also wonderful to see our wider community, parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, brothers, sisters, and friends fill the hall with so much love and encouragement for our students. The atmosphere in the room was something truly special, and I already cannot wait for next year’s celebration.

Today, I also had the privilege of speaking at the Hastings Boys’ High School assembly, this was the first time in our 70 year history that a Principal from Hastings Girls’ High School has been invited to speak at a school assembly at Hastings Boys’ High School, with the support of our student leaders and Mr Orr. Mr Summerfield and I are committed to continuing this new tradition in recognition of the strong connection between our two schools and the important role this relationship plays within our wider community. We spoke about the importance of respect, kindness, support, and aiming high in all areas of life. It was inspiring to stand before the young men of our brother school and encourage them, as they prepare for their own Literacy and Numeracy assessments next week, to work hard, develop strong learning habits, and strive for excellence in whatever pathways they choose.

Last week, we also held our Junior Parent–Teacher Interviews, and it was fantastic to see not only parents attending but entire whānau coming along to meet with our kaiako. The rich learning conversations, reflections, and discussions around next steps were at the heart of every meeting. If you were unable to attend, please don’t hesitate to contact the school so we can connect you with the appropriate staff member. We are always happy to continue these important conversations. A special thank you to the many parents and whānau who introduced themselves and shared their thoughts and feedback.

Conversations ranged from how supported their daughters feel at school, to questions around accessing extra subject support, and what NCEA will look like as students move into Year 11 and beyond.

At our whānau evenings, we have continued to include NCEA information pop-ups with handouts, videos, and examples of past literacy and numeracy papers to help demystify the process. Our Careers Team, Maxine Gilmour and Trudi Barrett, were also available to support students and whānau with those important “Who will I become?” conversations as students begin exploring future pathways.

Our focus over the coming week is the upcoming Literacy and Numeracy examinations. Please check in with your daughter to ensure she is able to log in to the NZQA website and has been practising past papers in preparation for the CAAs. Success in these assessments is an important stepping stone toward senior NCEA qualifications, and we remain committed to supporting every learner to achieve her very best.

Ngā mihi nui
Lisa Akers
Principal

It has been fantastic to see such a positive and purposeful start to the term across our senior school. There is a real sense of momentum building as students begin working towards their academic and personal goals for the year. At Monday’s assembly, we were proud to acknowledge a large number of students who have already achieved Merit and Excellence credits in Term 1. We congratulate these students on their commitment and hard work, and encourage them to continue striving for success throughout the year.

Over the next two weeks, some of our Year 10 and senior students will be sitting their Literacy and Numeracy assessments. We wish them all the very best and encourage them to continue making the most of the support and preparation opportunities available.

It was wonderful to meet so many of our junior students’ whānau at the Parent-Teacher Interviews last week. We look forward to connecting with our senior whānau during the upcoming Senior Parent-Teacher Interviews in Week 8. These conversations are incredibly valuable, as working together and providing support early helps ensure our students are well positioned for success throughout the remainder of the year.

Our Level 2 and 3 Physical Education in the Outdoors students recently spent a week in the Abel Tasman area developing their leadership and risk management skills. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Mrs Geary and Mrs Bryson for their tireless work in making these opportunities possible for our students.

There are currently many exciting opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. Our senior Pūhoro students will be attending a wānanga next weekend, where they will learn from experts in STEMM fields, explore future career pathways, and strengthen connections to their whakapapa.

Our senior students are also actively exploring future study and career options through a range of tertiary and industry visits. This week we welcomed representatives from the University of Waikato to speak about Computer Science and Law, alongside the New Zealand Defence Force, who were accompanied by former student leaders Maera Tahau and Miracle Lagaaia. The previous week, we were also fortunate to welcome back former student leader Zyggy Kireka-Russell, who spoke with and inspired our current Police Programme students by sharing her journey in the Navy since leaving school.”

A reminder to all students sitting Literacy and Numeracy co-requisite assessments in Week 5 to carefully check the attached timetable so you know when and where your exams are taking place.

On Monday, all Year 10 students (except 10LIV) will sit the Literacy Reading assessment during Session One. Students in 10LIV and all Year 11 students will complete their assessment during Session Two. All assessments will take place in the Hall.

There is still time over the weekend to do some preparation, revisit practice activities, and make sure you are feeling organised and confident heading into next week. We wish all students all the very best for their assessments.”

Please find the full schedule for the Literacy and Numeracy co-requisite assessments below. Ensure you are at the Hall at least 15 minutes before your session begins.

Day	Mon 18 May	Tue 19 May	Wed 20 May	Thu 21 May	Fri 22 May
Start Time	8:30am	8:45am	8:45am	8:45am	8:45am
Session 1	LIT-Reading	LIT-Reading	LIT-Writing	Numeracy	Numeracy
Groups	Year 10 (Crew, Moana, Conin, OUT)	Year 10 Catch-ups; Seniors (Y12 & Y13)	Year 10 (Conin, OUT); Seniors (Y12 & Y13)	Year 10 (Crew, Liv, Conin, OUT)	Seniors (Year 11)
—	—	—	—	—	—
Start Time	11:00am	11:15am	11:15am	11:15am	11:15am
Session 2	LIT-Reading	LIT-Writing	LIT-Writing	Numeracy	Numeracy
Groups	Year 10 (10Liv); Seniors (Year 11)	Year 10 (Moana, Crew, Liv)	Year 10 Catch-ups; Seniors (Year 11)	Year 10 (Moana); Seniors (Year 12)	Seniors (Year 13); SCL 1MANU 85A

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Critical Equipment Information

• Laptops: Students are expected to bring their own fully charged laptop. A limited number of spare devices will be available for those who need them.
• Headphones: Essential if you wish to use the ‘Polly’ text-to-speech function. These can be signed out from the school office (limited supply).
• Numeracy Requirements: You must bring a calculator and a ruler.
  • Note: If you need to borrow a calculator, these can be signed out from the school office.

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Final Reminders

Take some time over the weekend to revisit your practice activities and ensure your device is updated and ready to go. We wish everyone the very best of luck!

Today our students proudly supported Pink Shirt Day by wearing pink and collecting gold coin donations to raise awareness about bullying and promote kindness, inclusion and respect within our school community.

A huge thank you to the Student Council for organising this important initiative and to everyone who contributed. It was wonderful to see our students standing together to create a culture where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.

Last week our HGHS Leaders had the pleasure of joining the HBHS Leaders for breakfast for another successful leadership hui.

Building and maintaining these strong relationships between our schools is so important. It was a productive morning of networking, sharing ideas, and organising upcoming initiatives that will benefit both our school communities. These meetings are a great way to ensure we are working together to create the best experiences for all our students.

A huge thank you to Hastings Boys’ High School for being such wonderful hosts and for the delicious breakfast! We’re already looking forward to our next catch-up.

We are so proud of our student, Abby Ioane, Year 13 who spent her Term 1 holidays participating in the Young Navigator Programme in Auckland!

Abby was immersed in a high-energy environment, joining the Deloitte group to tackle complex, real-world problems. It wasn’t just about the work, though it was a fantastic opportunity to build connections with students from across the country, master the art of collaborative problem-solving and grow essential leadership and teamwork skills. “The programme was fun and very enjoyable, and I learned a lot from the experience,” says Abby.

Last Friday, we were lucky enough to have ex-student Zyggy Kireka-Russell stop by to visit, along with her Nan, Keita. Zyggy came back to inspire our current ākonga on the police programme by sharing her incredible journey since leaving us.

Zyggy has been in the Navy for 10 months now serving as an OCWS (Ordinary Communications Warfare Specialist). She is absolutely loving the experience, especially getting to travel the world and making so many new friends along the way. While she definitely misses her family while she’s away, she makes the absolute most of every visit home.

During her visit, Zyggy encouraged the students to take a leap and join the armed forces, sharing that it is a truly fantastic career path with endless opportunities. It was so wonderful to see you, Zyggy! We are all so proud of your mahi and can’t wait to see where your career takes you next.

Last Friday four of our incredible student leaders Khushi, Payton, Paige, and Jaz headed down to Wellington for the World Vision Youth Conference. Joining students from across the North Island, our leaders spent the day diving deep into real-world issues and exploring what it truly means to lead with purpose.

The girls had the privilege of hearing from some truly inspiring speakers, including Matt Renata, Mary Ieremia-Allan, and former All Blacks Captain Kieran Read. The sessions focused on different styles of leadership and, most importantly, the tangible steps young people can take to make a difference in their own communities.

Our student leaders have returned with valuable lessons and a fresh perspective. They are excited to use this inspiration to spark positive change and lead the way for their peers right here at home.

A massive thank you to the World Vision team for organising such an incredible kaupapa. We can’t wait to see the impact these girls will make.

Our international students recently enjoyed a fantastic day exploring two of Hawke’s Bay’s iconic attractions.

The group visited the National Aquarium of New Zealand, where they were lucky enough to witness a very energetic kiwi racing back and forth right in front of the viewing window, a rare and memorable experience. The little penguins were also a favourite, delighting everyone with their playful personalities. A huge thank you to Jacquie and the Aquarium team for providing such an enjoyable and educational visit.

The students then travelled to the Faraday Museum of Technology, following a wonderful suggestion from our international student Maria. The girls had a great time exploring the interactive exhibits, stepping back in time, playing the piano, “riding” the horse, and experimenting with the hands-on electrical displays.

It was a fun-filled day of learning, laughter and shared experiences.

A massive congratulations to Manreet and Lavinia, our Week 3 Attendance Superstars!

Both girls achieved a perfect 100% attendance record last week. Their enthusiasm for being at school and their eagerness to learn are exactly the kind of traits that will lead them to great success in the future.

We hope you both enjoy your well-deserved sushi, girls! Keep up the fantastic work.

Thirteen of our students recently travelled to Whakatū for the 2026 Horticulture Big Day Out Careers Expo. Alongside students from across Hawke’s Bay, they discovered that horticulture is about far more than just picking fruit, it is a fast-growing industry driven by science, technology and innovation.

Throughout the day, the girls explored a range of interactive “pitstops” that showcased the many career pathways available within the sector. They saw robotics and automation in action within the packhouse environment and learnt how technology is helping to improve efficiency across the industry. In the lab science sessions, students tested fruit quality and explored the genetics behind developing new apple varieties, including some popular taste-testing opportunities.

The group also learnt about “smart orchards,” where technology is used to monitor crop yields and tree loading, as well as innovative bio-solutions that use viruses to target harmful bacteria as an alternative to traditional chemicals.

A huge thank you to the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Horticulture and Agriculture Teachers Association and Eastern Institute of Technology for providing such an engaging and eye-opening experience, and for showcasing the exciting career opportunities available right here in our region.

2026 Tertiary Pathways & Information Evenings

For Prospective Students and Whānau A comprehensive guide to student life, undergraduate degrees, and scholarship opportunities.

What to Expect
Campus & Accommodation Tours: View halls of residence and facilities.
Faculty Sessions: Meet staff, explore courses, and attend taster lectures.

Date	Time	Institution	Venue
Mon 25 May	6:00–7:30pm	Massey University	Toitoi, Hastings
Thu 28 May	5:30–7:30pm	Lincoln University	Toitoi, Hastings
Wed 3 June	6:30–8:30pm	University of Otago	Napier War Memorial Centre
Thu 4 June	5:00–8:00pm	NZ Defence Force	EIT Building, Hastings
Tue 9 June	6:00–7:30pm	University of Waikato	Napier War Memorial Centre
Thu 11 June	6:00–7:30pm	Victoria University	Napier War Memorial Centre
Tue 16 June	6:00–8:15pm	University of Canterbury	Napier War Memorial Centre
Thu 25 June	TBA	University of Auckland	Napier War Memorial Centre
Thu 27 Aug	6:00–8:00pm	QRC (Tourism/Hosp.)	Hawke’s Bay (Venue TBA)
Thu 17 Sep	10:00am–2:00pm	EIT Enrolment Day	EIT Campus, Taradale

2026 NZ University Open Day Schedule

Date	Institution	Campus / Location	Time
Sun 3 May – Mon 4 May	University of Otago	Dunedin	All Day
Fri 22 May	University of Waikato	Hamilton	All Day
Mon 20 July	NZ School of Tourism	Chch, Wgtn, or Hamilton	Check Local Campus
Fri 24 July	Lincoln University	Lincoln (Canterbury)	10:00am–3:00pm
Wed 5 August	Massey University	Manawatū (Palmerston North)	All Day
Sat 15 August	Massey University	Ōtehā (Auckland)	All Day
Fri 21 August	Victoria University	Wellington	All Day
Fri 21 August	Massey University	Pukeahu (Wellington)	All Day
Fri 28 August	University of Canterbury	Christchurch	All Day
Sat 29 August	AUT	Auckland CBD	9:00am–3:00pm
Sat 29 August	Univ. of Auckland	Auckland CBD	9:00am–4:00pm
Thu 3 September	Massey (Distance)	Online	See Website

SENIOR B

VS Iona Senior A | 10:00AM | COURT 12

SENIOR BLUE

VS Woodford Senior White | 11:00AM | COURT 1

SENIOR RED

VS Havelock North Tui | 12:00pM | COURT 16

JUNIOR A

VS Karamū Ruapehu | 9:00AM | COURT 11

JUNIOR B

vs Havelock North Junior A | 9:00AM | COURT 8

JUNIOR BLUE

VS Napier Girls’ 9 Comets | 9:00AM | COURT 3

JUNIOR RED

VS Napier Girls’ 9 Force | 9:00AM | COURT 18 

MONDAY 18 MAY

Prem Basketball | Lunch | School Gym

Senior A Netball | 3-5pm | School Gym

Rugby | 3-4:30pm | School Field

TUESDAY 19 MAY

Junior Red Netball | Lunch | School Turf

Badminton Juniors | Lunch | School Gym

Junior A & B Netball | 3-5pm | School Gym

1^st XI Football | 3-4:30pm | School Field

Rugby | 3-4:30pm | School Field

WEDNESDAY 20 MAY

Junior blue Netball | Lunch | School Gym

Senior B Netball | 3-5pm | School Gym

1st XI Hockey | 3-4:30pm | School Turf

THURSDAY 21 MAY

Badminton Seniors | Lunch | School Gym

Junior Red Netball | Lunch | School Turf

FRIDAY 22 MAY

Senior B Netball | 3-5pm | Sports Park

Junior Red Netball | 3-4:30pm | School Turf

Senior Red Netball | Lunch | School Gym

Senior Blue Netball | 3-4:30pm | School Gym

MONDAY 18 MAY

Prem Basketball vs NGHS A | 7:40pm | Centennial Hall

TUESDAY 19 MAY

Senior A Netball vs Flaxmere College | PGA Court 3

WEDNESDAY 20 MAY

U15’s Rugby vs Bridge Pa | 6:40pm | Elwood Park

U17’s Rugby vs Flaxmere/Hukarere | 5:05pm | Elwood park

1^st XI Football vs NGHS 2^nd xi | 4:00pm | Hastings Girls’

THURSDAY 21 MAY

1^st XI Hockey vs TBC

Badminton B1 vs NGHS | 3:30pm | Hastings Girls

Badminton C1 vs HNHS | 3:30pm | Havelock North

Badminton C2 | BYE

Badminton D1 vs CHBC | 3:30pm | Flaxmere College

Badminton D2 vs Woodford | 3:30pm | Hastings Girls’

Badminton D3 vs CHBC | 3:30pm | Flaxmere College

Badminton D4 vs Karamū | 3:30pm | Hastings Girls’

School Calendar