2022 has continued to keep us on our toes with not only Covid hitting the staff and boys hard but also the flu season, which followed closely behind. With such a busy first half of the year planned, it is a tribute to our passionate and tireless team that in spite of these challenges, school life has remained relatively normal with the things that make it memorable such as the Anzac Assembly, school ball, sports exchanges - both local and away from home, the many cultural and academic competitions, and celebrations. Of significance, is a return of the haka being performed to a crowd in The Gully once more. This truly embodies the spirit of the school and all those who preceded us, and speaks to us about our past and our future.

The school roll is showing positive and ongoing growth.  Interest in boarding with NPBHS remains unwavering, and with the borders reopening we are pleased to experience a gradual return of our international boarders. This continued growth has necessitated some creative utilisation of existing teaching spaces with more major and ongoing future proofing in the planning, including a full refurbish of the music rooms.

Of note, it is exciting to mention the addition of the electronic scoreboards on the gully and the transition of televised Rugby games to the Maori Active YouTube channel, all sporting results for Super Eight fixtures can be viewed on the Tribe app.   

In keeping with continued improvements we have also, this year, onboarded the assistance of `New Era Technology’ who bring with them years of experience working in a school environment and are tasked with ensuring the school’s technology is safe, modern and efficient.

We will close out of September with the tri-annual Board of Trustee elections, although expect to see minimal change within our hard working and dedicated Board.

As always, it has been great to catch up with so many of you Old Boys this year through the Niger Cup Tournament and in Tauranga, Wellington and Auckland. And a reminder our doors are always open for those who want to come back and have a look around. 

Finally, it is a big year for NPBHS with October marking the school's 140th year. There are some fantastic events planned over the long weekend, and I encourage you to gather up your old school mates and join us.  I look forward to seeing you there.