 Term 4 Issue 2 |
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Kia ora e te whānau ō Whangaparāoa
Last night, we hosted our first-ever Technology Showcase — a celebration of innovation, creativity, and practical skill. The range of work on display was remarkable, from intricate design projects to mechatronic builds and digital prototypes. Congratulations to all our learners whose mahi featured — you represented the depth of talent and curiosity thriving within our college.
This week marks a significant milestone as we farewell our Year 13 learners. For many, this moment represents seven years of growth, challenge, laughter, and success at Whangaparāoa College. As they cross the stage and leave our gates for the final time, they carry with them not only their NCEA achievements but the relationships, experiences, and values that have shaped who they are becoming.
This cohort entered our college as 11-year-olds navigating a world of uncertainty — school closures, lockdowns, and rapid change. Yet they have shown remarkable resilience and leadership, creating a legacy of unity and pride for those who follow. From their contributions to the arts, sport, service, and academic excellence, to the way they have supported one another through triumphs and challenges, they have embodied our values of Ngātahi – together, Whakapono – believe, and Tutuki – achieve.
As they step into the next chapter — whether that’s further study, trades, travel, or work — we are immensely proud of who they are and the difference they will make in their communities. E kore e mimiti te aroha mō koutou – our love and pride will not fade.
On a personal note, it’s been inspiring to see our work extend beyond the school gates. I’ve recently been involved in the B416 campaign and the recording of a new national podcast series, One Young Mind. This series, hosted by Matilda Green and Dr Maneesh Deva, explores the realities of parenting and growing up in a digital age. I was fortunate to contribute to Episode 1, “Straight from the Frontline,” where we discuss what social media and online culture mean for our young people today. It’s been an exciting opportunity to represent the voice of schools and young people from our community on a national stage.
Finally, a reminder that our last enrolment evening for 2026 takes place on Thursday 6 November. This is the final opportunity for new families to join Whangaparāoa College next year. We encourage whānau who haven’t yet enrolled to come along, meet our team, and become part of our community.
As the year draws towards its close, I continue to be incredibly proud of our learners, staff, and whānau - the collective energy that makes Whangaparāoa College such a special place to learn and lead.
Ngātahi, Whakapono, Tutuki - Together, Believe, Achieve
Steve McCracken
Tumuaki | Principal |
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October31 Seniors last day November04 - 28 NZQA Exams (Seniors)
05 School Closes at 12:30pm (PPTA Strike)
06 Last Enrolment Interview Evening
13 Senior Prizegiving
14 Teacher Only Day (MOE Curriculum) School Closed
17 - 20 Year 10 Camp December05 Junior Prizegiving
Juniors last day |
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Recent News
Upcoming PPTA Half Strike and Teacher Only DayPPTA Half StrikeWe wish to remind all whānau that on Wednesday, 5 November a PPTA Half Day Strike is currently scheduled. Should this proceed, the school will close at 12:30 pm.
- Buses will run their normal afternoon route, departing following the 12:30 pm early closure.
- Should the PPTA cancel the planned half-day strike, we will notify all families of the change immediately via email and social media channels.
Teacher Only DayOn Friday, 14 November, the school will be closed for instruction to all learners. This closure is for a Ministry of Education (MoE) Curriculum Teacher Only Day, during which staff will be engaged in professional development.
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Heru Hāpai a Tāne PrizegivingWhat a wonderful and successful evening we had celebrating the achievements, leadership, and academic progress of our dedicated learners!
The Wānanga Prizegiving for He Kupenga Rua a Tāne, our Whangaparāoa Māori Bilingual Unit, was held to acknowledge the significant educational journey and outstanding success of our tamariki. The celebration, Heru Hāpai a Tāne, 2025, was a true testament to their commitment and excellence in education.
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Cultural Performing Arts PrizegivingAnother fantastic evening was had at our Cultural and Performing Arts Prizegiving!
The night was all about acknowledging the hard work, remarkable growth, commitment, and excellence shown by our talented young performers. We are incredibly proud of the dedication they bring to the stage - often excelling in multiple fields!
To all our winners, we offer a huge congratulations: Mahi tika ana. A special cheer goes out to our recipients of the Major Awards and Outstanding Contribution honours.
None of this success would be possible without the generous support of our amazing volunteer staff and community members. Their time, expertise, and passion are invaluable in guiding and mentoring our performers. Ngā mihi nui to you all!
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Gulf Harbour Yacht ClubOur annual community music evening took place on Friday, 17 October, at the Gulf Harbour Yacht Club.
More than 50 of our learner musicians from various bands and ensembles performed for parents and members of the community. The event drew a crowd of approximately 120 people.
It was a successful night for our music programme, providing an opportunity for our learners to showcase their talents.
Thank you to all the performers, as well as the staff and community members who helped organise and support the evening.
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EPRO 8 EventA huge congratulations to our two finalist EPRO8 groups:
The Brotatos and Fantastic 4, who will be representing Whangaparāoa College at the Interschool EPRO8 Competition in Northcote next month.
Both teams impressed the Year 12/13 judges with their creative engineering skills, building everything from an Ironing Man to a Jack-in-the-Box, and from a Ball Thrower to a Shoe Weigher.
We’re incredibly proud of their innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving – ka pai, teams! | |   |
2025 Year Book Pre-ordersOur 2025 Year Book Pre-orders are now open.
Whilst these are more geared towards our Year 13 Leavers, it does include class photos for all year levels and is available for anyone to purchase.
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The Hibiscus Coast Community RSA
43A Vipond Road, Stanmore Bay. |
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