CHRIST’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE
ISSUE 45 2026
From the editor Just over a year ago, I walked through the front gates to embark on my time at Christ’s College as Director of Advancement. To say I was a little nervous is an understatement. However, one simple act – as I turned to walk along the Quad towards the Dining Hall – immediately put me at ease. A young student walking towards me, looking every inch the College boy, said two simple words: “Morning, ma’am.” If that isn’t one of the most glorious ways to make someone feel welcome in a new environment, I don’t know what is. I wish I knew who he was, but I don’t. What I do know – after a year at College – is that it wasn’t a one-off. Small acts of kindness happen every day here. A warm welcome is just part of this place – you don’t have to go searching for it. That moment has stayed with me and, in many ways, inspired the thinking behind this edition of College magazine. You’ll notice that we’ve changed things up a little. It’s smaller in size, but bigger in terms of voices. We’ve invited more people to tell their stories and, through them provide a glimpse inside the gates and into the lives, moments, and experiences that make Christ’s College so special. For those who know us well, I hope you discover something new. And for those we are yet to meet, I hope these pages give you a sense of who we are – not because we’ve told you, but because our people have. Ultimately, Christ’s College is about people – the boys who walk through the gates each morning, the staff who guide and encourage them, families, Old Boys, and the many people who make up our rather special Christ’s College whānau. And we know there are many more stories out there. So, if you have one we should be telling in the next edition, please get in touch. But for now, go and grab yourself a cuppa, park up in a comfy spot, and get lost in the stories of our people. Happy reading.
Christ’s College Magazine Issue 45, 2026 EDITOR Bridget Woodham bridget.woodham@christscollege.com
DESIGNER Melissa Hogan
PHOTOGRAPHY Horizon Images Melissa Hogan Sarah Moore Christ’s College community
PRINTING Blueprint
CHRIST’S COLLEGE 33 Rolleston Avenue Christchurch 8013 New Zealand
facebook.com/ChristsCollege instagram.com/christscollegenz linkedin.com/school/christ’s-college-canterbury
Cover photograph by John Eastcott
A glimpse of boarding life at Christ’s College in 1969, captured by old boy John Eastcott (7674) during his time in Richards House. Discover the story behind John’s remarkable photographic collection and see more images from College life on pages 54–57.
Contents
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28 Sports spotlight Christ’s College students 30 At cross purposes but still in plain sight The Reverend Canon Cameron Pickering 32 Brotherhood Bridget Woodham 36 The heart of philanthropy Shelley Keach 39 Sharing in happiness James Melhuish 40 The rise of an entreprenurial generation Logan Ball 42 Why Round Square matters Yannis Zhang 44 Student Art Darryn George 46 Connecting College families Jane Elworthy 50 Looking beyond 175 years Tim Daley 52 Leaving an imprint on business and philanthropy Martine Cusack
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04 The educated young man Joe Eccleton 06 Aspirational school of thought brings positive changes Katie Southworth 09 By definition Joshua Shannahan 10 The culture of loving to learn Martine Cusack 12 Only a College boys knows... Christ’s College students 15 Hockey, hasbrowns, and extension Maths Martine Cusack 16 The quiet power of service Bridget Woodham 18 A music school in action Hugo Zanker 20 Beyond the barricade Hannah Clarkson 24 You can do hard things Kirsty Howatson 26 More than a scoreboard Benn McBrearty
54 Through the lens of 1969 Anne Gabrielsson 58 Giving children a sporting chance Max Goodwin 60 An animated approach to a global film career Martine Cusack 62 What matters now Christ’s College Old Boys 64 Connected across generations Lizzie Dyer 66 Saving lives in war and peace Martine Cusack 68 Ties that bind – Senior Honours for an AI innovator and an All Black Martine Cusack 70 Thank you to our 2026 sponsors
The educated young man WORDS | JOE ECCLETON
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A t Christ’s College, our mission is simple: Each boy at his best. However, what does this actually mean? What does a Christ’s College graduate look like? Professor John Hattie, one of the world’s leading educational researchers, observes that what the public often believes to be important in education is not always what the evidence suggests makes the greatest difference. While examination results matter, a Christ’s College education has always been about something much deeper. For many people, education is a means to an end. We educate young people for careers, to manage an increasingly complex economy and rapidly advancing technologies. These outcomes matter, but education cannot simply prepare boys for employment; it must prepare them for life. We are an Anglican community, educating boys to become men of virtuous character who make a positive difference in society. This requires us to develop not only capable learners, but men of integrity, compassionate leaders, and loving husbands and caring fathers. Our starting point is knowledge. An educated young man develops a deep understanding of how the world works through the physical sciences, humanities, mathematics, languages, technology, and the arts. He is intellectually curious and recognises that learning does not end with school, but continues throughout life. More importantly, he comes to understand not simply what we know, but how we know it. He appreciates the disciplines and methods through which knowledge is created and refined. In a world shaped by artificial intelligence, social media, and an overwhelming volume of information, this capacity is
History repeatedly reminds us that intelligence alone is not enough. Some of the most capable people in society have also been responsible for dishonesty, greed, and injustice. Knowledge without character is dangerous. Achievement without integrity ultimately serves no one. An educated young man understands his responsibility to others. He values diversity of thought and seeks to contribute positively to his community. He understands that leadership is grounded in service, not status, and that privilege carries responsibility. Education opens doors, creates opportunities, and equips our boys with the knowledge and skills to succeed in an increasingly competitive world. However, opportunity brings responsibility. Knowledge is power, and with power comes an obligation to act with humility and generosity. This is why Christ’s College is committed to developing far more than academic success. We seek to nurture young men of character who embrace lifelong learning and leave Christ’s College equipped not only to succeed, but to lead lives of purpose and significance. That, ultimately, is what we mean by ‘Each boy at his best’. “Excellence is rarely achieved without setbacks, and character is never found in comfort.”
more important than ever. It enables him to distinguish evidence from opinion, truth from misinformation, and to think with independence and intellectual integrity. Yet knowledge alone is never enough. The world our boys will inherit is interconnected and often uncertain. Success will depend not simply on what they know, but on their ability to apply that knowledge with wisdom, grounded in self-awareness and humility. Christ’s College is where our boys begin to understand both the world around them and themselves within it. An educated young man also understands his own strengths and limitations. He recognises that emotional intelligence matters. Resilience, perseverance, and the confidence to embrace difficult conversations will serve him well throughout life. Excellence is rarely achieved without setbacks, and character is never found in comfort. We believe aspiration should permeate every aspect of school life. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage, in the Chapel, or through service to others, boys should be encouraged to pursue personal excellence. However, excellence is never about comparison with others; it is about becoming the very best version of oneself. As an Anglican community, can we truly talk about an educated person without talking about Christian virtues? I do not believe we can. Education inevitably reflects a vision of the kind of society we hope to create. At Christ’s College, our Anglican foundation reminds us that education is as much about who we become as what we know. Honesty, compassion, respect, stewardship, justice, spirituality, and a commitment to learning are virtues that shape our daily lives.
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Aspirational school of thought brings positive changes WORDS | KATIE SOUTHWORTH
A t the heart of every great school is a commitment to continuous improvement. Not only for our students, but for the way we teach, learn, and grow together. As education evolves, we recognise the importance of ensuring our academic programmes remain rigorous, innovative, and responsive to the changing needs of young people. With this in mind, we are introducing significant enhancements of our academic structure. These changes strengthen curriculum leadership, enrich collaboration, and ensure we continue to provide an exceptional learning experience for each student. A key feature is the transition to a faculty-based structure at Christ’s College. By bringing complementary subject areas together, we can foster greater co-operation between departments, encourage the sharing of expertise, and empower stronger, more cohesive curriculum leadership. Rather than working in a subject silo, faculty leaders can
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collectively examine what we teach, how we teach it, and how we can continually refine our programmes to deliver the very best outcomes for students. Importantly, this structure also positions us in an excellent space for the significant changes taking place across the New Zealand Curriculum and NCEA. Our new model provides the vital leadership and flexibility to implement these changes with confidence, ensuring that we not only meet the new requirements but embrace the opportunities they present to further enrich teaching and learning. Central to this work is the growth and development of our Centre for Teaching Excellence & Research (CTER). It is the driving force behind professional learning, evidence- informed practice, and educational advancement, supporting teachers to continually refine their craft and deliver the highest-quality learning experiences.
As part of this CTER evolution, three new specialist roles will further enhance and strengthen our academic programme. The new Specialist Classroom Teacher is an expert practitioner and instructional coach, working alongside staff to model effective classroom practice, share research- informed strategies, and support continuous improvement in teaching across Christ’s College. The Head of Student Achievement focuses on ensuring that each boy is supported to achieve his personal best. Through detailed analysis of student achievement data and ongoing monitoring of academic progress, this role helps to identify students requiring additional support or extension, enabling timely and targeted interventions or opportunities. The Head of Enrichment and Global Pathways leads the academic extension and enrichment
programmes at Christ’s College, supporting students to realise their potential through the promotion of Scholarship programmes, academic mentoring, and a wide range of enrichment opportunities. The role also provides leadership and guidance for overseas university pathways, helping students and families explore and navigate their options. These structural changes are designed to support an even stronger learning environment for our students. By strengthening curriculum leadership, continuing to invest in teaching excellence, and positioning our school to confidently adapt to any changes in education, Christ’s College remains at the forefront of boys’ education, delivering an aspirational academic programme that encourages and empowers each student to fulfil his potential and attain his goals.
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WORDS | JOE ECCLETON
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By definition What it means to be a good young man today
WORDS | JOSHUA SHANNAHAN
B eing a young man in today’s world is difficult. Being a good young man is even harder. However, it is still something that every boy at Christ’s College is trying to achieve. So why do we still get it wrong? It is not because we lack good intentions. Most young men I know want to do the right thing. The challenge is that we are constantly being given different definitions of what that looks like. Growing up, a 2003 song really stuck with me: Where Is The Love? Not only did Dad and I enjoy listening to it on road trips, but the meaning behind it really stayed with me. “I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders
I’ve always admired Kobe Bryant. At his peak, it was easy to see him as someone defined purely by greatness. One of the best basketball players of all time. However, after he retired, what stood out most was not his achievements, but how often he spoke about his daughters. He had already reached the highest level of success in his sport, yet what anyone could see was his love for those closest to him. And when I think about my best friends at Christ’s College, I realise something similar. I know all of them will go on to change the world in their own ways. Some will become doctors, some teachers, some business owners, some professional athletes. However, I don’t think that is what will define them in my life. What will define them is whether they had my back when I needed it most. Whether they showed up when things were difficult. Whether they were patient, kind, and loyal when it mattered. Those are the same people who will stand beside me at my wedding one day. Not because of what they achieved, but because of who they were to me. And that brings me back to what it means to be a good young man today. It is not about being perfect. It is not about fitting one definition of strength or success. It is about becoming someone who is steady, kind, and reliable for others. Someone who understands that real strength is not domination, but the ability to choose patience, restraint, and care in a world that often rewards the opposite. In the end, I think the man most of us are trying to become is not remembered for how loudly he lived, but for how deeply he cared. That, more than anything else, is what I now understand it means to be a good young man.
As I’m gettin’ older y’all people gets colder Most of us only care about money makin’. Selfishness got us followin’ the wrong direction Wrong information always shown by the media Negative images is the main criteria
Infecting the young minds faster than bacteria Kids wanna act like what they see in the cinema.” The Black Eyed Peas convey the same struggle that young people experience today. The group depicts a world where people feel increasingly disconnected, where material success and media influence shape what we value, and where young minds are constantly exposed to images and messages that pull them in different directions. However, despite the obstacles detailed, the answer to being a good young man comes through the title – ‘love’. In trying to become a good man myself, I’ve realised the men I admire most are those who consistently show love. I think of my Dad. I think of my teachers who gave up their time to help others. I think of my friends who showed up when I was struggling. The strength of these men who I look up to is not measured by how intimidating they are, but by how patient they can be, how dependable they are, and how much they care for the people around them.
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The culture of loving to learn WORDS | MARTINE CUSACK
E ricsson Ye loves to learn – be it Biology, Physics, Mathematics or English, and everything in-between each class. For the Year 13 Christ’s College student, his passion for learning is “intrinsic”. “I know if I try and strive hard enough, that I can achieve,” he says. “I am motivated by challenges and always aim to give my best, even while doing something I don’t enjoy.” However, Ericsson loves Biology the most, reflected by his silver medal win at the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) in Lithuania in July. Representing New Zealand, his achievement places Ericsson among the world’s top young biologists. He is only the second Christ’s College student to compete at the premier competition. Held in Vilnius, the 2026 IBO proved to be an intense theoretical and practical challenge, with competitors solving highly complex problems. Despite more than 300 of the brightest young minds from nearly 80 countries vying for a medal, the Year 13 student held his nerve to claim the prestigious prize. His success was the culmination of a gruelling 10-day training and selection camp, based at the University of Otago, followed by months of intense study and tutorials. “Initially, I was looking for a fresh challenge when the Head of Biology, Ms Howatson, suggested that I give the Olympiad exam a try,” he says. For Ericsson, the Biology Olympiad “is a cool opportunity to do something very different and undertake a much longer journey of learning”. “The sciences are my passion – particularly Biology and Physics – and academic challenges are my motivation,” he says. “Coupled with self-belief, I aim to do anything to the best of my ability – no matter the subject.” Underpinning his Olympiad preparation, Ericsson also gained an Outstanding NZQA Scholarship in Biology, and Scholarships in Calculus and Physics in Year 12.
While building an inspirational list of individual achievements, Ericsson also stresses the importance of teamwork, having been a member of the Christ’s College Year 10 Cantamath champion team. “Our Year 10 win remains a personal highlight of my time at Christ’s College,” he says. “Cantamath is the most sport-like experience in academic challenges, competing against so many other schools while racing against the clock. It was also a learning journey as we trained for months in preparation for the big night.” One of five boys to be awarded the most outstanding academic honour – the Gold Tie – in Year 13 at Christ’s College, Ericsson has also achieved High Distinction in the International Chemistry Quiz and topped the South Island in the New Zealand Physics and Mathematics Competition. When not buried in textbooks or immersed in all things biology, Ericsson plays the flute in the Combined Christ’s College-St Margaret’s College Orchestra, sings in the Chapel Choir and Schola Cantorum, and carries the processional cross as the Chapel crucifer. While juggling multiple roles, he has managed to squeeze in another– appearing in the recent Christ’s College production, Les Misérables . He also debates for the school, featuring in the top team, and plays badminton while also being involved in water sport. Defying the demands on his day, Ericsson plays the piano during his ‘quiet time’, and remains committed to serving his community through Eco-Action, Christchurch City Council projects, and as a volunteer at the Transitional Cathedral. Reflecting on his appreciation of learning and remarkable ability to multi-task, Ericsson credits his parents for providing that early educational platform. “I think that love of learning was really inspired by my parents. By the time I was five or six, they were already planning interesting activities, like finding ants and measuring how fast they moved, and counting cars. That inspired me from the start, showing that learning could be fun.”
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Only a College boy knows...
Some things only a Christ’s College boy truly understands. The teacher whose catchphrase everyone can recite; the corner of campus that feels like home; the House traditions, hymns, moments and small details that shape life at Christ’s College. We asked boys from across the year groups to share what makes their College experience unique.
Dylan Jackson Year 13, Rolleston House
everyone together with one common goal of making each other proud and doing good for each other. Favourite canteen order Pie and chips. Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Jerusalem . Favourite space around school Upper West. Sam Moore Year 11, Flower’s House
whether it is House sport, House Music, House Plays, or even activities around the school, like Round Square Week. Favourite House tradition or event Athletics Day. While I love competing in it myself, all the boys show passion and pride for their House. Favourite teacher saying “The only instance where you ever look down on another boy is when you are tying their shoelace or lifting them up.”– Mr Randall Favourite canteen order Sushi bowls. Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Jerusalem . This hymn is sung with such depth and effort that I am still impressed every time I hear it. Favourite space around school My favourite part around school would easily be the new weights room in Upper West.
Things only a College boy understands
For me, College is so much more than just a school. I think that only those at College can truly grasp that love for the school and how much pride and joy we have in it. To be a part of the community and feel that College spirit is something that I think only the boys can understand. Favourite House tradition or event My favourite House event would have to be House Music as it requires everyone to put in the effort in order to come out the other side with a performance. It really brings
Things only a College boy understands We strive to get involved in
everything. In every aspect of College life, we learn to give everything a go,
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Hugh Davis Year 12, Flower’s House
Paddy Newton Year 13, Harper House
Favourite canteen order Fish and chips.
Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Ka Waiata – when we repeat the verse with the echo from the choir, it sounds lovely. Favourite space around school The Old Boys’ Theatre. The teachers there are very nice and it is a good place for Drama. Jacob Wang Year 9, Corfe House
Things only a College boy understands Your House is a big part of your identity at College. The House you’re in helps determine who your closest friends are, and when talking to a College Old Boy, the first question is often –‘What House are you in?’. Favourite House tradition or event House Music. The preparation that goes into it, then performing as a whole House in front of thousands of people — there’s nothing quite like it. Favourite teacher saying “Character trumps credentials.” – Mr Cortesi Favourite canteen order Definitely the chocolate croissant. Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Jerusalem , without a doubt. Everyone knows it off by heart, and when the whole Chapel sings it at full volume, the atmosphere is something else. No other hymn comes close. Favourite space around school The new Upper West gym. Watching the Senior A basketball there, with plenty of room to make noise, is hard to beat.
Things only a College boy understands ‘Hands in.’ Favourite House tradition or event House Music Favourite teacher saying “Look up, look at me.” – Mr Newton Favourite canteen order Brekkie bun. Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Hymn 67 (Marching) Favourite space around school Chapel. Ben Hoskins Year 10, Somes House
Things only a College boy understands The only thing a College boy or Old Boy would understand is probably how deep the House system actually is. Favourite House tradition or event House Music, because it involves everyone. Favourite canteen order Brekkie bun. Favourite hymn sung in Chapel Jerusalem . Favourite space around school The Library, because it’s just very chill and relaxing.
Things only a College boy understands Getting lost in the giant campus in your first few weeks. Favourite House tradition or event My favourite House event would have to be the House Plays.
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Hockey, hash browns, and extension Maths WORDS | MARTINE CUSACK
W hen you ask Year 9 Thai student Neh Rajtborirak what he loves most about Christ’s College, he quickly replies “every subject – and playing hockey”, along
“I am also happy that my English is improving. When I first moved to New Zealand, I found it difficult to understand people speaking English and it took me a long time to translate from English into Thai in my head. However, now I can do this quickly and only struggle with some difficult words from time to time.” He adds that he also loves the colder weather after the heat of his home country. When asked to name his three favourite things at Christ’s College, Neh lists “study – because I find it fun here”; playing sport and having PE classes; and “staying in the boarding house to hang out with my friends and sometimes visit town together”. And what advice would he give a new international student coming to Christ’s College? “I would tell him that everyone is really nice, and there is no need to feel nervous. However, also listen to your teachers and do the right thing because you want to do your parents proud back home.” International Student Manager and Round Square Representative Sarah Davidson points out that Neh is the latest in a long list of Thai students who have made Christ’s College home. “We have welcomed a steady flow of Thai students to College, starting with Kamolnai Chaixanien in the mid- 1970s,” she says. “I have caught up with many of our Old Boys during recent trips to Thailand, including Wynn Arunrugstichai, an architect and lecturer in Bangkok. It was Wynn who connected Neh’s father with Christ’s College, showing the power of our strong alumni relationships. And now Neh is in Richards House, following in the footsteps of Wynn and his older brother, Sunh. “For me, it is great to see Neh surrounded by friends and already making his mark at Christ’s College.”
with the “hash browns we get at breakfast”. He also favours L&P, but that’s outside school.
When not in class or surrounded by his band of brothers in Richards House, Neh is ever-ready for a trip to Hanmer Springs with the boarding programme or a “visit to the Marlborough Sounds with my friend, Fitz”. Neh has certainly embraced College life, revelling in the boarding environment and supported by his housemates. “I enjoy all of the people in Richards House and they are all very friendly to me,” he says. “Now I have made a lot of friends”. Neh adds that “since coming into Richards House, I have needed to do more things for myself, which I think is good”. “This is teaching me discipline and I have to think ahead and organise myself.” When his father had asked Neh if he wanted to be educated overseas, he was very happy as his then school “was all about study”. Today, he loves the mix of study and activities, seizing the many opportunities, including making the most of an extension Mathematics class that “gives me more of a challenge but in a fun way”. Neh explains that his father “had decided to look for a good school in New Zealand, and because one of his friends had recommended Christ’s College, my Dad visited the website and was impressed with the range of activities and subjects”. Neh’s father, Akarawoot Rajtborirak, adds that “Christ’s College is excellent in traditional academics, sports, culture, and pastoral care – and that’s why my son decided to become a part of this school’s history”. While Neh misses his family, “all the things I enjoy here help me to cope”.
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The quiet power of service WORDS | BRIDGET WOODHAM
A ngus Sharpe notices people. He instinctively knows when others need help. He sees the challenges that others may overlook. And he chooses to act. Throughout his time at Christ’s College, the Year 12 student has immersed himself in service, always searching for ways to make a difference. It is not something he does because it is expected. It is simply how he sees the world. “I kind of just wanted to help people,” he says. “It feels good to do it.” That same motivation has been guiding Angus since primary school, when he first started to fundraise to benefit others. He recalls wanting to support people whose circumstances were very different from his own. That desire found a fresh focus when, as a teenager, he met Tania Sharr from Fountain of Peace Children’s Foundation NZ. With her encouragement, Angus became a student ambassador and saw more clearly the impact one person could have on many others. Fountain of Peace supports orphaned and abandoned children in Uganda through family based homes within village communities, while also improving access to education, healthcare, and clean water. Inspired by the organisation’s work, Angus organised fundraising initiatives at Christ’s College, including chocolate sales and a movie fundraiser. Those efforts contributed to the construction of a well in Uganda’s Kyenjojo District, providing a community with access to safe drinking water. The experience has reinforced his belief that while one person cannot solve every problem, everyone can choose to make a difference somewhere. His work with Fountain of Peace demonstrated the impact he could have on communities on the other side of the world. It also made Angus realise that there were young people in Christchurch who needed support, too.
“You can’t do everything,” he says, “but you can definitely have a big impact where you live.” That has led Angus to the 180 Degrees Trust, an organisation that supports young people facing educational challenges. It helps them make positive choices, build confidence, and realise their potential. For the past few months, he has been mentoring a 13-year-old boy, helping with schoolwork, technology projects, and practical skills. When Angus reflects on the experience, he focuses less on what he has taught and more on the bond that has developed. It is powerful to see the impact of his efforts on young people, firsthand. Through mentoring, he has discovered that some of the most meaningful ways to help are also the simplest – showing up consistently, giving your time, listening, encouraging someone when they need it, and helping them believe in their potential. His journey reflects what sits at the heart of Christ’s College life. Service is woven through the College experience, with boys encouraged to give their time, talent, and treasure in service of others and to develop a lifelong disposition to serve. It brings the school virtues of compassion, respect, and justice to life beyond the classroom – and the gates. Whether raising funds for a village in Uganda or mentoring a young person in Christchurch, the motivation remains the same. Take note. Step up. And act. In many ways, Angus embodies the best of what service can be – and achieve. He understands that even small acts can have a lasting impact. “People who need help are everywhere, even if you can’t see them,” he says. It’s a simple observation, but perhaps it is also the most powerful lesson in service.
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A music school in motion WORDS | HUGO ZANKER
WORDS | HUGO ZANKER
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E arly one morning, I arrived to find the Music School already awake. A trumpet player was warming up in one room. Next door, a young piper worked patiently with Liz Drury on a chanter. Shelley Spang accompanied vocal warm-ups down the corridor, while from Nolan Hungerford’s studio came the unmistakable sound of contemporary music in full flight. Every room was occupied. Every space was alive. It was the sound of boys learning through music – curious, committed, and finding their voice. It hasn’t always felt like this. Not long ago, the Music School was working hard against its own limitations. Equipment and spaces that were stretched beyond capacity struggled to keep pace with the growing number of boys choosing Music as a significant part of their lives at Christ’s College. As participation and ambition increased, it became clear that the department needed to evolve alongside the students. That journey began with a simple question: What kind of Music School do our boys deserve? Since then, we’ve invested in soundproofing, new practice spaces, modern equipment, and systems that better support learning. These changes are more than physical improvements. They’ve created an environment where boys want to spend time, where creativity flourishes, and where music is again at the heart of the building. Today, the department is moving with intention – a momentum woven through the four pillars of our programme. Choral Music, under the expert direction of Peter de Blois, remains the musical heartbeat of the school. From the Year 9 voice testing to The Big Sing, and Chapel Choir to combined concerts, choral singing teaches discipline, breath, teamwork, and the courage to be heard. It anchors the department in tradition and connects us to our Anglican faith. Orchestra and Chamber Music continue to grow in depth and ambition. Our collaborations with St Margaret’s College and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School have allowed our musicians to
perform repertoire beyond our usual scale, and our chamber groups are stepping confidently into competitions and public performances. This year’s Orchestral Extravaganza brought together 113 musicians on stage, and we were thrilled to have four chamber groups – including a Cello Octet – represent Christ’s College at the 2026 CMNZ Chamber Contest. Contemporary Music and DJ, led by Nolan, is a whirlwind of energy and identity. Rockquest success, new equipment, and a steady stream of boys writing, producing, and performing their own music have made this one of the most vibrant corners of the school. It’s loud, it’s joyful, and it’s where many boys discover that music can be theirs. Jazz, currently directed by Nolan continues to teach boys the art of listening and playing. Improvisation builds confidence in a way few other disciplines can. The Big Band and Jazz Combo have become tight, expressive ensembles, and their performances are a testament to the hours of quiet graft behind the scenes. We are excited to welcome a new Junior Jazz Ensemble to the roster, creating another pathway for our younger musicians to develop their skills. Our classroom programme is evolving alongside these co-curricular opportunities. A major focus is expanding and diversifying our music and performing arts technology capacity at all levels. This will allow us to cater for boys with no musical background who would like to compose, perform, and feed into our co- curricular programme. Today’s musicians move comfortably between a Bach chorale, a jazz standard, a rock riff, and a beat they’ve built on a laptop. Our role is to build a Music School that can flex and accommodate all this diverse music making, keeping the enduring strengths of orchestral, choral, and jazz traditions while giving boys the tools to explore contemporary music making. We’re not finished, but the Music School is humming again – purposeful, busy, and full of boys finding their place in the noise.
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Beyond the barricade WORDS | HANNAH CLARKSON
T he buzz around the school in Term 2 was undeniable, and the consensus was unanimous: Les Misérables was a triumph. Bringing this legendary show to our stage during its 40th anniversary was a monumental undertaking, pushing our students to their limits with demanding vocals, emotional depth, and flawless coordination behind the scenes. However, as the Director of Drama, the true success of a production is never about the standing ovation at the final curtain. It is about what happens in the six months leading up to it: the community built in the wings, the confidence and skills uncovered, and the life-changing bonds formed under the stage lights.
Whether a student is standing in a spotlight as a lead, driving the energy of the ensemble, or calling cues in the crew, a school production offers an experience unlike any other. Here is what our students had to say. For some, this production was the culmination of a lifelong ambition. Charlie Wood (Year 13), who took on the monumental role of Jean Valjean, reflected: “The first time I saw Les Misérables was live on the West End ... I realised that performing was what I wanted to do with my life. To then stand on the College stage in my final year, performing my dream show as Jean Valjean, was an experience I’ll never forget.”
Taking on a show of this calibre pushed our performers to new heights. Ollie Trollip (Year 12), who played Javert, said: “I have developed a lot of my skills through the singing of many difficult pieces of music and also learning lots of tips from the many talented people around me.” Michael Rankin (Year 13) echoed this sentiment, adding: “My voice has developed way more than I ever thought it could ... it honestly became one of the highlights of my time at College.” Stepping into a senior production can be intimidating, especially for younger or less experienced students, but the theatre quickly becomes a place where year levels
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disappear. Hugo Bush (Year 11) admitted he felt daunted at first: “I didn’t really know what to expect … but every single person was so incredibly kind to me, supporting me on and off the stage.” That support transformed the cast and crew into what many described as “one big family”. Ollie summed it up as “a team environment … like one big whānau”. If you ask the boys what they will carry with them now that the set has been dismantled, the answer isn’t the applause – it’s each other. James Melhuish (Year 13), a five-year veteran of College
productions, reflected: “Being in a group of like-minded people all set on the same goal is so empowering and inspiring … Most of my best mates at College and at our sister schools have come from these shows.” Charlie de Costobadie (Year 13) captured the resilience built behind the scenes: “The many hours that the cast and crew spent together, while tired, stressed, and struggling with school lives, allowed deep relationships to form that would struggle to build in any other scenario.” If there is one message from the cast and crew of Les Misérables to the rest of the student body, it is this – give it a go. You do not need to be a seasoned performer to find your place in the theatre.
As Oscar Stove (Year 13) urges: “I would strongly encourage any students to give it a try, even if you have never been involved before; there is no better place to start!” To sum it up in Charlie de Costobadie’s words: “If all my schooling was cut away and I could only take one memory or repeat one event, it would undoubtedly be this show.” Thank you to the phenomenal staff, crew, and cast who poured their hearts into the barricades this year. You didn’t just put on a show; you built a community.
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You can do hard things My 1200km journey traversing Te Waipounamu
the line between adventure and irresponsibility? Eventually, I emerged from the valley to be greeted by beautiful snow-dusted mountains. Some days you just have to grasp the opportunity and leave the beaten track to discover some of the most spectacular scenery in Aotearoa. With more challenges to overcome, I tackled the Nevis Pass – a personal highlight and the highest public road in Aotearoa – reaching 1300m at Duffer’s Saddle. Basically, it delivered more elevation than any other day. While I was apprehensive, once you start pedalling – and even when it’s hard – you find one more pedal stroke in you. It started well, and the first few hours were a steady, relentless climb. Off the bike, I love the quote ‘Consistency beats intensity’. Nowhere is that truer than on big days in the hills. Go too hard, too early, and you pay for it later. False summits gave me the thrill of thinking I was nearly there, followed by the emotional crash of realising there was more to come. Bikepacking puts you outside your comfort zone but I strive to never quit. While you can stop, eat, and rest, eventually, you have to get back on your bike and continue your journey. There is no other way out. Reaching the saddle summit was pretty incredible, reinforcing my belief that we are capable of anything we put our minds to achieving. Reflecting on my journey, I realise that I plan well and remain realistic about my capabilities. I also love riding my bike, especially through stunning scenery, in the sunshine with a tailwind. I love the simple life. My people are important to me. Porridge is life. And, most importantly, I can do hard things. Here’s to the next adventure.
WORDS | KIRSTY HOWATSON
W hen it’s hard going, there’s always one more pedal stroke in you. That applies to study, sport, jobs, and life – and a 1200km quest to cycle down Te Waipounamu. Riding my bike has always been my ‘happy place’ – from velodromes, to roads and trails, and then the freedom of an epic long-distance challenge. In a world where anyone can contact you at any given moment, I love disconnecting from society. On my ride from Picton to Gore, social interactions become wonderful conversations with people in corner shops or pubs, or chats around a fire over a hot chocolate. All I need to do is ride my bike, eat, and sleep – then repeat. For me, the joy of bikepacking is that life becomes so simple. I had an inkling of what lay ahead, having undertaken a few bikepacking missions: Christchurch to Nelson over a week, and cycling around Tasmania in just more than 10 days. However, this was different – 17 days to get from Picton to Gore. How hard could it be? Gearing up for the Ōmārama Saddle, I knew it would be a tough climb.
Reaching 1250m, and with 31 fords to cross on the way down, there was no turning back once you reached the top. It is one of the few days I have feared. What if I couldn’t make it up the saddle? What if I had a mechanical? What if the weather was terrible? I soon found myself navigating rocks and gravel during the steep climb that I might have ridden on an unloaded bike. However, carrying all my gear, the large boulders and uneven surface meant that once I lost traction, I couldn’t get going again. A few kilometres from the top, I was jumping on and off my bike –pushing between ridable sections. Mentally, reaching the top changed everything. If I could achieve this, I could ride up, down, and around almost anything. As in life, I found that I really could do hard things. If getting to the top was hard, the descent was rock-filled and technical. It would have been easy to switch off at this point, but staying focused kept me safe downhill. Then came the 30-plus river crossings. The track was obviously more suitable for a 4WD and incredibly muddy – to the point that my tyres had no visible grip and lost complete traction. Had I crossed
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“Reaching the saddle summit was pretty incredible, reinforcing my belief that we are capable of anything we put our minds to achieving.”
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More than a scoreboard WORDS | BENN MCBREARTY
Y ou will hear it before you see it. The whistle from the turf. The rhythm of oars moving together on the Avon. The noise of sport at Christ’s College has always been part of the school’s identity. However, increasingly, I find myself thinking less about the noise and more about what sits underneath it. Sport at College is often viewed through results. Premierships, regattas, national titles, and representative honours all matter. We want our young men to compete hard and strive for excellence. Yet, the longer I work in school sport, the more convinced I become that the real value of sport is found in the quieter moments. The parts that never make the headlines. Sport has an extraordinary way of teaching lessons that young men carry long after they leave school. It teaches that progress is rarely linear; improvement does not happen in a straight line, and success is almost never immediate. There are setbacks, injuries, non- selections, and difficult seasons. Students train hard and, still, sometimes fall short of what they hope for. However, often those moments become the most important part of the journey. Learning how to respond to disappointment is one of the greatest lessons sport can offer.
A student who misses a team or loses a final has a choice in how he responds. He can retreat, or he can continue to work, improve, and support those around him. That resilience – the ability to keep showing up when things are difficult – matters far beyond the sports field. Sport also teaches patience. Meaningful growth rarely happens quickly. Hard work compounds quietly over time. Confidence grows through preparation, and leadership develops through experience. Often, the students who eventually succeed are not the ones who start strongest, but the ones prepared to persevere when progress feels slow. “At College, we are fortunate to have a sporting culture where students are encouraged to pursue excellence while still understanding the importance of humility, service, and connection.”
One of the privileges of working in sport at Christ’s College is seeing students develop over several years. A boy may arrive with ability, but sport quickly teaches him that talent alone is rarely enough. Progress requires consistency, discipline, and the willingness to contribute to something bigger than yourself. That is why I believe the best school sporting programmes are not simply measured by trophies, but by the type of young men they help shape. At College, we are fortunate to have a sporting culture where students are encouraged to pursue excellence while still understanding the importance of humility, service, and connection. Some students will go on to represent Canterbury or New Zealand. Others may never play beyond school. Both experiences matter equally. For many students, sport becomes the environment where they first discover confidence. It gives structure to their week, connection to their peers, and trusted adults around them. In an age where young people face increasing pressure – socially and academically – those things matter more than ever. In the past few years, we have worked hard to continue strengthening sport at Christ’s College, improving coaching structures, increasing
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communication with families, and developing clearer pathways for students. However, the vision is larger than simply creating stronger teams. The goal is to create an environment where students feel challenged, connected, and proud to contribute. That environment is built by many people: coaches giving up early mornings and weekends, parents driving across Canterbury, Old Boys returning to support programmes
they once played in themselves, and staff who understand the role sport can play in a young man’s education. Long after scores are forgotten, most students will remember the people they shared the experience with and the lessons they learnt about themselves. That is the part of sport at Christ’s College I value most; not simply the score, but the growth that happens along the way.
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Sports spotlight
Tawhiri Cate Year 13 – basketball New Zealand team for the FIBA U17 World Cup Representing my country, Aotearoa, on the international stage is my greatest achievement. As a kid, it was something I would have found hard to believe could come true, so succeeding in my dream of putting on one of those shirts is a milestone I will never forget.
Archie Huston Year 13 – cricket Canterbury U17 team
Will Leech Year 13 – sailing New Zealand representative My greatest sailing achievement was placing 2nd overall at the 2025 Kieler Woche Regatta in Kiel, Germany. It is the largest annual sailing event in the world, so winning my first international medal at such a significant regatta was a major accomplishment. Also, being selected twice for the National High Performance Youth Sailing Team, representing New Zealand on the world stage, and having the honour of captaining the team during my most recent campaign.
My greatest achievement in sport so far is being selected to represent Canterbury at the U17 national cricket tournament at Lincoln in January. This was a great opportunity to test my skills against the best players in my age group from around New Zealand. The added training and coaching that came with this opportunity contributed to me reaching my personal-best bowling figures of 13 for 60 during College’s two-day fixture against St Thomas of Canterbury College.
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While achievement in sport takes multiple forms, the success of every Christ’s College student strongly reflects the five Cs of commitment, communication, concentration, control, and confidence. From playing for your country and lining up against the toughest opposition to setting that milestone mark and becoming even stronger as a member of a team. We have asked six outstanding Christ’s College sportsmen to answer one question: For you personally, what is your greatest achievement in your sport?
James Diprose Year 11 – orienteering New Zealand Secondary Schools Orienteering team Making the New Zealand Secondary Schools Orienteering team has been one of the most rewarding milestones in my sporting journey. Being selected gave me the opportunity to travel to Australia and compete against talented athletes from different regions, which was both exciting and challenging. The experience pushed me to adapt quickly in unfamiliar environments, stay focused under pressure, and trust my decision- making during competition.
James Bandasak Year 13 – volleyball New Zealand U20 team One of my biggest volleyball achievements has been making the New Zealand U20 team. What made it special was seeing all the hard work over the years pay off, balancing school, training, gym, and tournaments while competing against some of the best players in the country. It also taught me a lot about handling pressure, teamwork, and discipline. I’m excited to keep pushing myself towards even bigger achievements in the future.
Henry Jones Year 13 – rowing Maadi Regatta medallist
My U18 pairs race with Toby Adams, where we won a bronze medal at the Maadi Regatta, is my greatest achievement to date. All season, we were just trying to take it step by step and focus on the process. This led to the most enjoyable season I’ve had yet, and, subsequently, a pretty special result. Honestly, it was just great to give it everything with one of my mates.
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