HPSS BOARD — HPSS

OUR BOARD

A message from our PRESIDING MEMBER

GRAEME AITKEN

Area of specialty: Education, national curriculum development and implementation, governance, vision, strategy

We have lived with four of our grandchildren and daughter for over 10 years in Hobsonville Point and have a long-term investment in the community. I have been a member of the Hobsonville Point Schools Board since 2016. Two of our grandchildren have graduated from both HPPS and HPSS. Two others currently attend the schools (one at primary, the other at secondary). In continuing to live with our grandchildren I remain close to their school experience.

I have 49 years of experience in education and in 2019 received a Lifetime Educational Achievement Award from the Minister of Education. I was a teacher at Waitakere College for 15 years and Dean of Education and Social Work at the University of Auckland from 2008-2017. I have now retired from the University but continue to work part-time on contract to the Ministry of Education contributing to the design and development of the New Zealand school curriculum. I am also a board member of three not-for-profit education organisations.

These experiences provide me with insight into the changing priorities of education that inform my contributions to the Board.

Graeme Aitken: graeme.aitken@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

AMY CROXFORD

Areas of Specialty: Education, Strategic Planning, Technology Integration, and Community Collaboration

I’ve been part of the Hobsonville Point Schools community since the beginning, first as a foundation teacher and as a parent with children at Hobsonville Point Primary. With over 20 years in education and leadership, I care deeply about creating learning environments where young people feel confident, curious, and connected.

Working alongside schools across Aotearoa has shown me how much can be achieved through strong relationships and a shared sense of purpose. I’m passionate about keeping collaboration at the heart of what we do, celebrating what makes each of our schools unique while continuing to grow together as one community.

Amy.croxford@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

Hone Dalton

Areas of Specialty: Sustainable procurement, leadership development, and community engagement
I work in local government, leading sustainable procurement initiatives that support environmental and social outcomes. My background includes over two decades in aviation and more recent experience in coaching and capability development across a range of organisations.

I’m passionate about creating opportunities for diverse communities and supporting positive change through collaboration and strategic thinking. As a local resident, I’m proud to be joining the Board of Trustees to contribute to the ongoing success of our school community.

My son Jack (Haki) is currently in Year 10 at Hobsonville Point Secondary School and previously attended the primary school. I’m looking forward to supporting the school’s vision and helping ensure great outcomes for all our tamariki and whānau.

Hone.dalton@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

KATIE DOBSON

Katie Dobson – Board Member
Areas of Specialty: Education, Health & Safety, EOTC, Sports, Governance

Kia ora, my name is Katie Dobson. I am a proud mum of two girls, Zara (11) and Marnie (9), who both attend Hobsonville Point Primary School. Since moving to the Hobsonville Point community in 2014, I’ve been an active and connected member, coaching my daughters' netball teams and engaging in local initiatives.

With a strong background in education, I’ve spent many years teaching in secondary schools, holding various leadership roles and contributing to national assessment through NZQA marking. I later transitioned into an Education Advisory role at Kāinga Ora, working with schools across Tāmaki Makaurau to inspire and support students into pathways in the construction industry — helping to address the national skills shortage.

Currently, I work with Defining Moments, where I support schools in designing and delivering overseas education experiences. This role allows me to combine my passion for education outside the classroom (EOTC) with my commitment to student and teacher wellbeing, ensuring every trip is enriching, safe, and memorable.

I bring expertise in education, student wellbeing, health & safety, and school governance, along with a deep belief in the power of real-world learning. I am committed to supporting our kura and community to create engaging, inclusive, and future-focused opportunities for all our tamariki.

katie.dobson@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

Paul geden

Areas of Speciality: Governance, finance, education & community engagement

My family and I have lived in Hobsonville Point since 2012. My wife, Liz & I even watched both schools being built, at a time when there was very little else here. Our children, both attend Hobsonville Point Primary School.

For the last 8 years I have been a board member of Kaitiaki Kindergartens, the Association that manages the Hobsonville Point Early Learning Centre that is adjacent to the Primary School, 4 of those years as chairperson of the board. I have also served on the board of Kindergartens Aotearoa. As a committed member of our school community, I am passionate about supporting our tamariki, kaiako / staff, and wider community to ensure our schools continue to thrive, and that each child that leaves our schools with a skill set that sets them up for lifelong success.

With a background in Insurance Management along with the skills learned at Kaitiaki Kindergartens, I bring skills in governance, finance, education & community engagement, that I believe will contribute positively to the strategic direction and governance of our schools.

Paul.geden@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

MICHELLE HUYNH

Areas of specialty: Governance, Risk & Compliance, People & Culture, Policy and Finance
I'm a proud mother of two vibrant young ladies - both currently attending HPPS, with my eldest preparing to transition into the high school next year. My family and I joined the HP Community four years ago, and we've come to appreciate the passion and proactive spirit of families here.

Professionally, I manage risk and governance for one of NZ's major banks. Over the years, I've built a diverse career across Finance, HR & Recruitment, Technology governance and Leadership.
I'm passionate about supporting our children to thrive and ensuring that our community's voice is represented on the school board.

I believe that my professional experience, combined with my commitment to our community, will enable me to make a valuable contribution to the board.

Michelle.huynh@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz

VANI BATRA

Student Representative

Hello, Namaste, Sat Sri Akal, and Kia Ora.

My name is Vani Batra, and I’m honoured to serve as the Student Representative on the Board of Trustees for 2026. Over my years at Hobsonville Point Secondary School, I’ve been extensively involved in leadership roles that have shaped my passion for student voice and community impact.

At HPSS, I’ve had the privilege of being the Head of Promotions for our school’s Model United Nations for two consecutive years, and I’m now stepping into the Coordinator role for 2026. I’m also one of the 2025 Student Leaders for the school. Beyond school, I serve as one of the National Leaders of Change for World Vision New Zealand and as the Communications Lead for the Upper Harbour Youth Council.

I’m genuinely thrilled to take on this position and deeply recognise the responsibility and importance it carries. I’m committed to fulfilling it to the best of my ability, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of our student body are represented and valued in every decision we make for our school’s future.

Vani.batra@hobsonvillepoint.school.nz