A Message from the Rector

By RIchard Hall | Posted: Friday February 13, 2026

A community is measured by its response to good times and hard times.

This week has been the very definition of a roller coaster. It would be easy to say that in my 11 years as Rector this has been one of the most challenging and rewarding weeks we have experienced.

On Monday we hosted the funeral service for Kelly Kinghorn, our Librarian. We had communicated our sadness at her passing to you, and I was very grateful to the Otago Daily Times for their kind and sensitive article. Again, I thank you, our school community, for supporting us when we closed the school for half the day.

On Tuesday we invested our new school prefects. Each one has been given the opportunity and the challenge to lead our school as THE examples of Men of Oak. Each one was given the chance to pull out; none did. Challenge accepted.

On Wednesday we held our school athletics day, in the cold and then brilliant sunshine. Well done to Liam Grey, who broke a school high jump record for his age group, especially in the difficult conditions. Importantly, I acknowledge all those who put a stamp in their 2026 OBHS Passport — they were there, they participated, and they had fun.

On Thursday we blessed and opened the Shand Music and Performing Arts block. My thanks to Aukaha, the local mana whenua, and Kitty Brown for her leadership. Wairua Pūho were on form and the event felt right. Seven years in the planning and 20 months in construction, we finally have a facility to back the talent of our boys. Last evening we had an excellent Year 9 Meet the Teacher event here at school.

Today, Friday, we decided to be “normal” and just teach for the day.

I want to acknowledge all of the OBHS staff — the School House staff, the Support Staff, and the Teaching and Senior Leadership Team — who have been the epitome of Honour and Courage this week.

Our community, measured this week, has been found to be strong, and I remain grateful.