Hostel Happenings

By Susan Landels - Matron | Posted: Wednesday March 4, 2026

With a lucky dip of weather challenges, juggling all seasons, we are already halfway through the first term.

I'm very happy to report that the majority of boys have settled into their routines. Prep is going well, and having the Rector supervising certainly helps to quieten the overall tone and increase motivation to study. Thank you, Richard.

Interviews for our new Director of Boarding are set for this weekend, and we are looking forward to confirmation of an appointment starting at the beginning of Term 2.

Hawthorne and Nicoloson won the Pit Cricket at the last School House battle. It was a memorable moment for Kade Lawrie, who hit a six to win the final on the very last ball.

Next week's house competition is touch rugby for both seniors and juniors across mixed age groups.

The planned junior activity for Sunday 15 March is ten-pin bowling.

A warm welcome to Ashton White, who is joining our team as a new Housemaster. Ashton’s hometown is Queenstown, where he attended Wakatipu High School. He is currently in his second year studying Sports Science at university.

On Saturday 7 March, the Highlanders face the Force at 4:30pm at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Once again, School House will have plenty of hostel boys among the spectators to show their support.

The Wānaka Show is scheduled for 13–14 March, and traditionally many boys request leave for this weekend. Parents, please ensure you have entered your son's leave on Reach as soon as possible. Ideally, we need this before 9pm on Wednesday evenings for weekend leave. It is essential that Donna knows numbers for food ordering and catering purposes. Thank you.

Anyone experiencing ongoing issues with the Reach programme, please contact Atu Katoa at [email protected] or call 020 4089 9606.

Men of the Week:

Year 10 – Ryley Buchan

Ryley has been observed by staff being particularly helpful towards other boarders. He is kind and caring and goes above and beyond. Always happy to be supportive — awesome stuff, Ryley. You are certainly appreciated.

Year 9 – Ollie Waldie
Ollie has impressed us all with his impeccable manners and general positivity. Thanks for helping School House maintain a friendly, happy vibe. Keep it up, Ollie.
As they say, “Manners maketh the man.”