Hostel Happenings - Week 7

By Susan Landels - Matron | Posted: Wednesday March 18, 2026

What a mixed bag of weather, with a few glorious sunny days interlaced with some showery, cooler downpours.

We are now 7/9 of the way through Term One, which is a shorter term of just nine weeks, ending April 2. The Easter break is included within our holiday period. Anzac Day falls on the first Saturday in Term 2 but is being observed on Monday, 27 April. The school will hold an Anzac service on Friday, 24 April. More details to come.

We are delighted that the new Director of Boarding is Lance Taylor, a previous old boy who was himself Head of the Hostel in 2010. Lance is thrilled to be taking up his new role at the beginning of Term 2. We are all excited to welcome him and his family, wife Krysta and children Ruby and Fletche to our School House family. Lance loves cricket and rugby, so he will be in very good company.

The Wanaka Show was a huge event—a great couple of days basking in the sunshine while catching up with lots of fellow O.B.H.S. supporters, past, present, and potential. Thank you to those students and parents who volunteered to assist in the tent and did such a fine job networking.

Parents, please be mindful that you must submit your son’s leave before Thursday at 5pm. It is unacceptable to say, “Oh, I couldn’t work Reach,” or, “Sorry, I lost my password.” If you need help, please contact Atu Katoa on 020 408 99606 or email [email protected]. He will be more than happy to assist you with this. Leave will now be denied to any boarder who has not had it approved through Reach.

Congratulations to Ryley Buchan for being selected for the Otago Under 16 basketball squad. We wish you well for the season, Ryley. Well done to Lachie Smith and Mason Kingan, who both made it into the Premier Div 1 team for club hockey. Charlie Nichol will strengthen the Div 2 Taieri men’s side this season. Ashton Robertson had some successful athletics results, placing 2nd in the Under 20 long jump, 2nd in the high jump, and 3rd in the 400m final. Charlie Nichol was 2nd in the Under 17 discus.

Last weekend, Declan Roulston had some impressive results at the South Island Long Course Championships, winning gold in the 100m backstroke and silver in the 50m backstroke. He competes in the NZ Division 2 this weekend and continues to strive.

Junior – Man of the Week
Oscar Nichol, for settling in well and being such a cheerful, easy-going young man around School House. A noticeable improvement in making his bed and keeping things tidier too.

Senior – Man of the Week
Kade Lawrie is always cooperative and kind. He is polite, respectful, and happily helps others. We love the sense of fun you bring