Hostel Happenings

By Susan Landels - Matron | Posted: Wednesday April 22, 2026

Sunday afternoon saw boys arriving back into School House, their body language exuding obvious enthusiasm as they rejoined their mates.

They were warmly greeted at the door and eagerly settled into their new rooms.

We were all excited to meet and welcome our new Director of Boarding, and uniquely, a former Head of Hostel himself, Mr Lance Taylor.

This week sees winter sports trials and pre-season practices underway.

The OBHS 1st XI Hockey team has been announced. There is an outstanding number of hostel boys who have been selected to make up this strong squad. Best wishes for the season ahead, boys. Good luck also to all hostel boys who eagerly await selection into other sports teams.

At the risk of repeating ourselves...
Our focus this term is on tightening up the leave process. Parents, please be proactive in getting your sons’ leave requests in by Wednesday evening. Thursday morning before 10am is the latest acceptable cut-off time. It is essential that the kitchen staff know numbers so they can order appropriate food supplies. Anyone having issues with KAMAR, please contact our Assistant Manager, Atu Katoa, at [email protected] or phone 022 454 8049.

As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, please check with your son whether he needs any extra bedding. Thank you to all those who have provided vitamin C and multivitamins for their sons, as these can help support them during the winter months when viruses spread easily in a communal environment.

Matron is working towards arranging for the Māori Hill Clinic nurse to visit and administer flu shots as soon as possible. A date is yet to be confirmed. Thank you to all parents who have ensured their sons have received their meningitis vaccinations and have advised us. We appreciate you taking responsibility for this serious health matter.

Men of the Week:

Junior – Charlie Dodd (Year 9)
Charlie has impressed us with his excellent organisational skills. He is a keen squash player who juggles a busy schedule of games and practices. He is up and dressed early each morning and sets a fine example for others. Keep it up, Charlie.

Senior – Cru Holland (Year 12)
Cru is always helpful and cheerful. He has had a fantastic pre-season with the 1st XV. His efforts as the unofficial “in-house barber” are appreciated by his fellow hostel brothers.

Below is the Term Two hostel calendar. Please note that we are open for ANZAC weekend, but we will be closed for King’s Birthday.