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Hobsonville Point Secondary School Communication1 May 2026 PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGEKia ora e ngā whānau, We are now two weeks into Term 2, and it has been pleasing to see how well our students have settled back into their learning. Classrooms are focused and purposeful, and winter sports are now underway, providing many opportunities for students to engage, represent the school, and build a strong sense of connection and pride. I continue to be proud of the breadth of opportunities we offer our students and the Year 9 camps, taking place last week, this week, and next week, are a wonderful example of how we bring learning to life beyond the classroom. Experiences such as these play an important role in building relationships, resilience, and a sense of belonging. I sincerely thank our teachers and senior leaders for their time, energy, and commitment in making this experience possible. We also appreciate your ongoing support in ensuring your child attends school regularly and arrives on time. We have seen an improvement in our attendance data, which is encouraging. As the colder weather sets in, we recognise that it can be tempting for teenagers to stay in bed a little longer, so your support in maintaining strong routines is greatly valued and makes a significant difference to your child’s learning and success. You will have seen the communication sent earlier this week regarding the proposed splitting of the school board. Thank you to those who have already taken the time to provide feedback. We value your input and appreciate your continued support as we work together in the best interests of our school community. Ngā mihi Kirsty Dowding Tumuaki Principal
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KEY INFORMATION:COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON SPLITTING THE COMBINED SCHOOL BOARD As a reminder, Hobsonville Point Primary School (HPPS) and Hobsonville Point Secondary School (HPSS) are consulting with the community on splitting the combined school board. A detailed email was sent on 28 April 2026. Key dates for the Consultation: Feedback will be open during this time, and questions and comments are welcome via email to board@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz, the drop box at the school office, or in a face-to-face meeting.
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SPORTS: JUNIOR NETBALL TOUR TO WHANGĀREIOver the last weekend of the school holidays, our 9A and 10A Netball teams travelled to Whangarei for a mini-tournament with teams from Whangarei Girls High School and Kamo High School, as well as some junior Whangarei club teams. It was a great pre-season hit-out for both our HPSS teams, and gave them the opportunity for some team-bonding games and activities in the evenings as well. All the girls also completed the theory component of their beginner umpires qualification - great skills and knowledge for all our up-and-coming netballers.
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CONNECTEDNESS: ANZAC DAY25 April marks an important day in the histories of both New Zealand and Australia, commemorating 111 years since ANZAC troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula. It is a time to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who have served our country. A number of our student leaders, alongside members of the Senior Leadership Team, attended the Hobsonville RSA ANZAC service, where a wreath was laid on behalf of our school. The service was a meaningful opportunity to come together with the community and pay our respects. This occasion holds particular significance for our school, as it is situated on former Royal New Zealand Air Force land. This connection makes our participation even more special, as we honour those who served and recognise the history that is part of our local community.
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CONNECTEDNESS: WHANGATEAU CAMP - CHALLENGE, CONNECTION AND ADVENTUREOur Year 12 and Year 13 Outdoor Education camp at Whangateau was honestly one of the best experiences of the year. It had everything; challenge, teamwork, questionable cooking skills, and a lot of laughs. We definitely built whanaungatanga (connections) and showed plenty of manaakitanga (looking out for each other), especially when things got tough. Day 1 – Kiwi Night Walk (aka “Did you hear that?!”)
After arriving and setting up camp (some tents better than others…), we headed out on a kiwi night walk. Walking through the bush in the dark was both cool and slightly nerve-wracking. Every little noise had us stopping like “wait… what was that?!” even though it was probably just someone stepping on a stick.
But the best part—we actually spotted a kiwi up close. It was such a rare and special moment, and everyone went very quiet (for once!) just to take it in. Definitely a highlight of the whole camp and a cool reminder of our kaitiakitanga (looking after our environment and wildlife). Day 2 – Goat Island & Leadership Activities
Day two was a highlight as we went snorkelling at Goat Island Marine Reserve. The water was super clear, and we saw a stingray and some massive snapper which was amazing… until they swam a little closer than expected.
Back at camp, we participated in leadership activities that tested our teamwork and communication. When teams were competing, things got loud (in a good way), with lots of shouting, encouragement, and maybe a bit of “creative strategy.” It turns out everyone becomes very competitive when there’s a challenge involved. We built kotahitanga (unity), and by the end, we were working way better together. Day 3 – Paddle, Leadership & S’mores
Day three was a big day on the water with our Whangateau paddle. The conditions added a bit of extra challenge, but everyone worked together well, showing great mana wāroa (resilience). There were definitely moments where people questioned their arm strength but no one gave up, and we got through it as a team.
That night made it all worthwhile, we had s’mores around a gas fire, which quickly turned into a serious competition for the perfect marshmallow. Some were golden and perfect others were absolutely destroyed within seconds. Either way, it was a great way to relax, laugh, and share stories from the day. Day 4 – Puhoi to Wenderholm Paddle (Final Boss Level)
On the final day, we took on the Puhoi to Wenderholm paddle. This felt like the ultimate challenge to finish the camp. By this point, we were tired but way more connected as a group.
Camp was an awesome experience. We were pushed out of our comfort zones, tested physically and mentally, and definitely learned a lot about ourselves (and how not to burn dinner). We built confidence, resilience, and strong friendships along the way.
He taonga tēnei wheako – even if we’re still recovering
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WELLBEING: PEER MEDIATOR TRAININGOn the 1 April, we trained 61 students in the art of Peer Mediation and conflict resolution through the Peace Foundation. These students learned about the restorative process and how to support their peers during disagreements. They are now given the opportunity to join the 70-strong Peer Mediator group at HPSS, a group of enthusiastic leadership students who run student-led events across the school, promoting important initiatives like Pink Shirt Day and Light it Orange. They also support other events and further training at the school. Congratulations to everyone who attended.
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CONNECTEDNESS - OPENING OF THE UPPER HARBOUR MARINE CENTRE - TE PAE Ō ŌRUAMŌKAIDuring the second week of the school holidays, a group of our student leaders had the privilege of attending the official opening of the Upper Harbour Marine Centre, Te Pae ō Ōruamōkai, located at Hobsonville Point Wharf. After much anticipation, the project has now been completed, and members of the local community, alongside iwi, gathered to celebrate this significant milestone. The new marine centre will play an important role within the wider community and presents exciting opportunities for our school, particularly in expanding pathways into water sports and marine recreation. It was also a valuable opportunity to represent our kura. Our student leaders were honoured to be part of this special occasion and to represent the school at an event that opens new possibilities for future student involvement.
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INSPIRE: IGNITE AT BIG FAN STUDIOIn Term 1, Year 13 student Andre de Billot successfully applied to be part of the IGNITE intake at Big Fan Studio - this is an amazing opportunity for musicians wanting to enter the music industry. The intake is small and the applications are fiercely competitive, so it is a great achievement to be invited into the programme. Ignite is dedicated to nurturing and empowering rangatahi with a passion for music and events through a free 8-week industry-specific training programme. Their mission is to support participants' personal and professional development and to offer valuable insights into the music industry. Ignite has a unique aim to teach rangatahi not only creativity within, but also the complementary skills in support of the music industry, exposing them to the incredible breadth of career pathways and opportunities that exist within it. The programme offers one-on-one mentoring from industry professionals, upskilling opportunities, hands-on experience and the opportunity to apply the skills learnt to practice. Through Ignite, we engage the wider community by producing truly authentic all-ages shows – run by young people for young people, whilst creating key performance opportunities for young and emerging artists. Andre is thriving in this course, extending his skills and building connections with producers, artists, and studios. He has commented many times about how much he is enjoying this learning opportunity. Congratulations Andre, we look forward to seeing where your music pathway takes you in the future.
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EXCELLENCE IN PERFORMING ARTSWORLD OF DANCE Congratulations to Year 12 student Michaella Job, who competed in the World of Dance competition with her troupe of 81. Their troupe won their division and earned the highest score in the competition.
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EXCELLENCE: ATHLETE DEVELOPMENT SCHOLARSHIPSHuge congratulations to Maia Peterson (Athletics/Rugby), TJ Uhatasi (Rugby League), Yuto Ikeda (Baseball) and Olivia Jurgens (Netball/Touch), who were all chosen to receive an Athlete Development Academy (ADA) scholarship from AUT Millennium. The ADA programme provides strength and conditioning training for young athletes to get fitter, faster and stronger for their chosen sport. These four were selected from over 50 students who trialled in one of the most competitive scholarship trials AUT have ever put on (their words).
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SPORTS: NETBALL HOLIDAY PROGRAMMEOver the Easter holidays, our netball programme brought together 42 Year 5-8 players from all our feeder primary schools for a fun and engaging holiday programme experience focused on skill development, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game. There were sessions spread across three days that progressively became more advanced to match the players development. The programme was lead by our Premier netball team players, and overseen by our Prem coach Natalie Pati. Each of us had so much fun coaching these young players and can’t wait to do it again. - Emma Lynch, Year 13 *Watch this space, we are hoping to offer another holiday programme next school holidays.
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EXCELLENCE: CLASS TO SKIESOver the weekend, one of our Year 13 student leaders, Dhruv Sharma, achieved a significant milestone by completing his first solo flight. Student reflection:
Achieving your first solo flight is an unforgettable experience. Taking full control of the aircraft without an instructor beside you brings a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. However, the moment of landing after that first solo flight is incredibly rewarding. This achievement was particularly special as it was completed after just 18 hours of flight time, compared to the typical 25 hours. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and would like to sincerely thank Emma and Alison from Pathways for their support throughout my journey, as well as my instructors and coordinator at the North Shore Aero Club for their ongoing guidance and encouragement.
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KEY DATES 2026All key dates for the year can also be found on the Calendar on our SchoolBridge app, along with Attendance, Daily Notices, Reports, Results, and Payments. Term 1 (10 weeks) - Friday 30 January - Thursday 2 April Term 2 (11 weeks) - Monday 20 April - Friday 3 July Public Holidays: ANZAC Day Observed - Monday 27 April, King’s Birthday – Monday 1 June IEMs: Yr 12-13 - Wednesday 20 May 2pm - 8pm. Bookings will open on SchoolBridge from next week. IEMs: Yrs 9,10,11 - Wednesday 1 July 2pm - 7.30pm and Thursday 2 July 3.30pm - 7.30pm
Term 3 (10 weeks) - Monday 20 July - Friday 25 September HPSS Open Evening for 2027 new students - Monday 27 July 5pm - 7pm Staff Only Day (Board) - Friday 4 September IEMS: Yr 12-13 - Wednesday 16 September 2pm - 8pm Derived Grade Exams - Thursday 17 September to Friday 25 September School Ball: Yr 12-13 - Friday 25 September
Term 4 (9 weeks) - Monday 12 October - Thursday 10 December Public Holidays: Labour Day – Monday 26 October Year 12 Prize giving - Wednesday 4 November 2.30pm Year 13 Graduation & Prize giving - Wednesday 4 November 5pm Staff Only Day (MoE: Curriculum) - Friday 6 November NCEA Exams - Tuesday 10 November to Friday 4 December IEMs: Yrs 9,10,11 - Wednesday 2 December 2pm - 7.30pm and Thursday 3 December 3.30pm - 7.30pm
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