CHRIST’S COLLEGE MAGAZINE
ISSUE 44 2024
T he fine arts of deconstruction and maximalism are woven through the creative concepts of Christ’s College Old Boy Eric Liu. Now studying at Central Saint Martins – University of the Arts London, Eric brings his unique imagery to life with strong colour blocks and unique viewpoints. Renowned as the world’s top- ranked centre for art and design, Central Saint Martins is a dream space for Eric as he pursues a career in fashion design. See page 58. College cover art by Eric Liu
4 Towards the 175th Anniversary and beyond Board Chair Hugh Lindo 10 The Wynne Years Reflecting on an aspirational tenure 18 Angus Gifford The science of being one of the best 22 Lachie Short A gifted leader across the board 26 AJ Madondo A leap of faith for US track and field 30 Jack Hansen-Ratter Advantage on centre court 32 College commands court From tip-off to buzzer-beating jump shot 36 Tama, Ihaka, and Tawhiri International slam dunk 38 Team tennis Making a point both on and off the court 40 Josh Brown and Seb Gray In the snow in Canada and France
42 Best in sport College sport stars represent New Zealand 46 Competitive camps In pursuit of higher science 50 Essential English Lesson for today 52 Being united The true power of diversity 58
32
Eric Liu – by design The fine art of fashion 62 James Reed A day in the life of a College boarder 66 Aaron Kwak An unforgettable elephant adventure 70 Benson Geng-Wang A cultural odyssey 74 Jack McKeown and Tom Foster On safari in Kenya 76 House Music All the high notes 80 House Plays Julius seizes spotlight 84 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. A truly scrumptious show 86 Anything Goes A delicious display of song and dance 88 Cole Moffatt and Charlie Wood A song and stage double act 90 Welcome to Grandparents’ Day Seeing the school through their grandsons' eyes
38
46
92 Community matters From the Quad to well beyond the school gates 94 John Rutherford College's oldest Old Boy 98 Luke Alderton Doing a power of good 104 Upper West New centre of sports attraction 106 Bede Hamilton and Max Topham Boys running the good race so young girls can be safe
108 Chris Graham Putting service before self 114 Teddy Tahu Rhodes Giving his time while treasuring his talent 118 Sony Camp Caring for children at College 120 Marking milestones Celebrating 175 years 126 Museum of College life Packed with stories, treasures, and memories 129 Sponsorship Reaping the rewards 134 Finding the best fit From sustainable farming to zero- waste knitwear 138 Eco-Action Kaitiaki sow seeds of hope for Earth 142 A royal welcome Being of service 144 Farewell to staff
94
138
144
Welcome to College magazine We invite you to delve into the pages of College magazine and discover the stories of what makes our school such a wonderful place. Our magazine captures the many achievements of our students and Old Boys while also illustrating the range of opportunities open to each boy who steps through our gates. Highlighting our strategic themes of Motivation, Connection, Philanthropy, and Sustainability, College expresses the energy and enthusiasm of our community. The stories inspire us to aspire to achieve so much more during our time at College and well beyond. We are all integral to our school and all have a role to play in creating an ‘atmosphere of excellence’. Find out more about a few of those who have played their part.
Joe Eccleton Christ’s College Executive Principal
Christ’s College Magazine Issue 44, 2024
DIRECTOR OF ADVANCEMENT
GRAPHIC DESIGN
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Claire Sparks +64 3 364 6803 csparks@christscollege.com COMMUNICATIONS ADVISOR Martine Cusack martine.cusack@christscollege.com
Melissa Hogan PRINTING
Admissions Registrar Sarah Fechney +64 3 364 6836 registrar@christscollege.com
Caxton
Towards the 175th
anniversary and beyond – Board Chair Hugh Lindo
A t the time of writing this article, there have been three notable and recent events in the life of Christ’s College. On 24 July 2024, the Abuse in Care – Royal Commission of Inquiry’s report was released. More will be written about the Royal Commission’s work, and its influence on Christ’s College’s acknowledgement and apology to Old Boy survivors of abuse, in a book being written for our 175th anniversary in 2025. Our work with our Old Boy community in relation to historical abuse will continue and will not end just because the report has been released. We will continue to recognise all our Old Boy survivors, both heard and unheard. On 5 July 2024, Garth Wynne attended his final engagement as our Executive Principal. It was both meaningful and fitting that
his last function was with our parent community. In his time, Garth reformed the College by introducing a multitude of programmes, all with the objective of improving the experience of our students. Our value proposition has been driven by the diversity and innovation of our offering and this has consistently resonated with our students, parents, and caregivers and is reflected in the high enrolment demand. Garth has left an incredible legacy as we now look to reset our strategy from 2025 to 2030. On 6 July 2024, Gillian Simpson assumed her role as the first female Acting Executive Principal of Christ’s College to cover the period over Term 3 until Joe Eccleton took up the role at the beginning of Term 4. Gillian’s mihi whakatau on Monday 22 July was incredibly moving.
With a long and successful career in education, not least as Executive Principal of our sister school, St Margaret’s College, Gillian provided continuity and leadership as we looked forward to welcoming Joe Eccleton. When I re-read the equivalent article from last year, headed ‘A view from 2025’, I can report that we have continued to make progress on executing the strategic enablers that have driven our Change & Continuity Strategy 2025. In August 2024, the Board started the pre- planning for the next iteration of our strategic plan that we intend to set for a five-year period to 2030. This plan will be refined and finalised in 2025. At this point, we see that some of the key themes to 2030 will reflect aspects of the current strategic plan, but with a renewed and
4
priority focus on redefining what pastoral care means in 2025 and beyond, given the complexities and pressures faced by our students and our staff. We see the need for further investment in learning support, our counselling team, and in our people and culture function where the wellbeing of all who work or study at College is enhanced. The ongoing development of our campus will remain a key priority. As for the past year, reflected in the financial update to 31 January 2024, the operational result is disappointing when compared with the prior year. A trading deficit of $1.3 million is not what we budgeted for at the start of the year. Some of the deficit can
be explained by the increased interest cost incurred on the funds we have borrowed for Upper West. We also had several exceptional and non-recurring expenses associated with last year’s independent investigation. However, the overall result, that includes the revenue generated from the Foundation, is an improvement on last year, largely built on the strong performance of the financial markets. The strength of the Foundation again emphasises what an important role it plays in funding our scholarship programme and otherwise supporting College. The trading deficit also reflects the first year of the reduction of the distribution from the Foundation
by a reallocation and prioritisation of our financial resources. On reflection, we may have been too ambitious in our hope that College could operationally absorb the reduction. The resetting of the Foundation distribution policy is though key to our financial sustainability. As the distribution to College continues to be reduced over the next two years, we will meet our goal of protecting the real value of the Foundation capital but maintaining the Foundation’s support for our scholarship programme. Our aspiration is to grow the Foundation’s value to circa $100m over the next 15 years and we are on track to achieve that with the careful stewardship of the
COLLEGE 2024
5
Foundation sub-committee, chaired by Johnny Cochrane. The Foundation comprises our investment portfolio and land at Kimihia, Lincoln and reflects the generosity of our community – through all the generations since we were founded – in supporting College through gifts, bequests, and endowments. The campus master plan is a critical component of the future shape of College. There is no shortage of projects that the Board would ideally wish to do without the financial constraints
we are subject to. After 10 years in the planning, fundraising, construction, and commissioning, we now have Upper West in full operation as a magnificent addition to our facilities. With the Upper ground restoration complete, we are well placed to deliver an enhanced experience for all those who can enjoy this iconic part of the school. Earlier in the year, we appointed a commercial director to bring an independent lens to our financial and operational performance, restructure our budget-setting
model, and develop business plans around the implementation of the recommendations of the Lander report. Consistent progress is being made across several initiatives. I indicated last year that we were reviewing the equity of the inclusive fee. That review is ongoing, with a particular focus on the cost of delivering our co-curricular and sporting programmes. The events to mark our 175th anniversary in 2025 are a few months away. Tickets are on sale and I encourage you to
book. The celebrations are being held from 14–16 February, with evening events in the new Upper West. These will be spectacular events and not to be missed. Our Advancement team is working hard to deliver a fitting series of occasions to celebrate a notable milestone in the history of Christ's College. As well as the celebratory events, 2025 will include the opening of the College Museum, the focus of the 2023 Annual Appeal. The project is being managed by Old Boy architect Alec Bruce and the
museum will capture the life of College since 1850, showcasing our school archives in purpose- built cabinets and visual displays, supported by digital technology. We are grateful to Jane Teal, who has been the curator of the College archives for many years, for her invaluable guidance as the museum takes shape. The final acknowledgement of our 175th anniversary will be the publication of an updated College history book, written by College History teacher Warren Lidstone. This will be a fitting record of arguably one of the most challenging, formative, and interesting periods in College’s history, covering the Canterbury earthquakes, Covid-19, the Royal Commission, and our bicultural journey, and reflecting the tenures of former headmasters and our first executive principal in the period since 1997. With a view to 2030, the Board is excited about the future of Christ’s College under the leadership of Joe Eccleton. Joe will continue to drive the execution of our strategy and we know that our boys, staff, parents, and the wider College community will enjoy their engagement with him as he brings his own vision and style to College.
COLLEGE 2024
7
Financial update for the year ending 31 January 2024
School Operations $m
Consolidated Entity $m
Financial Performance 2024
Foundation $m
Revenue
23.4
7.1
30.5
Expenditure
(27.5)
(0.4)
(27.9)
Trading result pre Foundation allocation
(4.1)
6.7
2.6
Foundation allocation
3.0 (1.1)
(3.0)
0.0 2.6
Trading Result
3.7
One-off net gains Surplus for the year
3.4 2.3
(0.6)
2.8 5.4
3.1
School Operations $m
Consolidated Entity $m
Financial Performance 2023
Foundation $m
Revenue
21.8
1.9
23.7
Expenditure
(25.0)
(3.2) (1.3)
(28.2)
Trading result pre Foundation allocation
(3.2)
(4.5)
Foundation allocation
3.0
(3.0) (4.3)
0.0
Trading Result
(0.2)
(4.5)
One-off net gains Surplus for the year
0.0
1.3
1.3
(0.2)
(3.0)
(3.2)
8
2024 Consolidated Entity $m
2023 Consolidated Entity $m
Financial Position
Current Assets
Short term deposits Sundry current assets Assets held for resale
9.7 3.2 6.5
0.3 2.5
12.0 14.8
19.4
Non-current Assets Managed Funds
39.5
46.1
Investment Property
8.4
8.4
College Property, Plant & Equipment
83.6 131.5
76.5 131.0
Total Assets
150.9
145.8
Current Liabilities Loans
0.8 3.8 4.6
2.5 3.9 6.4
Other Current Liabilities
Non-current Liabilities Loans
15.0
13.5
Total Liabilities
19.6
19.9
Equity/Net Assets
131.3
125.9
Further details are available on the Charities Services website Annual Return Summary at: www.register.charities.govt.nz Charity reference CC21589, Annual Returns.
COLLEGE 2024
9
10
The Wynne Years
F rom playing schoolboy rugby for Brisbane’s Churchie on Upper to leading Christ’s College, Garth Wynne has taken an interesting journey to the Executive Principal’s office of New Zealand’s only independent secondary school for boys. Garth credits several “serendipitous circumstances”
Headmaster, Richard Bromley. Then, in consultation with famous Housemaster Brian Le Vaillant, we organised an exchange programme between the schools. That continued for several years and was also enabled by College Headmaster Rob Zordan, a former colleague from earlier in my career.” In 2011, Garth returned to Christ’s College during his sabbatical from his role as Headmaster of Christ Church Grammar School in Perth. “I met then College Headmaster Simon Leese on several occasions and, during the timing of my transition from my Perth role in 2015, the College leadership position appeared,” Garth recalls. “My wife, Annie, and I saw it as an opportunity to go back to our earlier, almost gypsy-like career steps by coming to live in New Zealand. It certainly fitted in with my interest and experience. “My predecessor, Simon Leese, and former Bursar Colin Sweetman had been consumed by earthquake renewal and spent time and energy in ensuring the physical school was ready for the
next steps in 2016. So, I was given the Board brief, essentially, to try and move the school forward … a modern, independent New Zealand school,” Garth says. That covered academic, pastoral, and co-curricular programmes, alongside nurturing College’s Anglican identity. “The spiritual health of the school is obviously a key to its ongoing success,” he says. “It has been maintained during my time through my support of an already very strong, Chapel-led programme. I have been very fortunate to have two wonderful Chaplains, Bosco Peters and Cameron Pickering. I have also been witness to the significance of our school choir and the way in which we nurture our particular Anglican identity. Personally, I was proud to initiate a new school hymn and the concept of a school lesson, ‘The Good Samaritan’. In collaboration with Bosco and Cameron, we have created our unique Anglican identity, which, although always evolving, speaks to our faith-inspired soul.”
and a “sense of alignment” for facilitating his path to Christchurch.
“My first trip overseas without my parents was a rugby union tour of New Zealand as a student of the Anglican Church Grammar School, Churchie, in Brisbane,” he explains. “We first landed in Christchurch and I played rugby on Upper. And that was my first touch point with the College community.” Fast forward a few years to the late 1990s and Garth was now a Housemaster at The Southport School (TSS) on the Gold Coast, seeking ways to expand an exchange programme for boarders. “I reached out to College and was put in touch with College’s Deputy
COLLEGE 2024
11
On the academic front, one of Garth’s first appointments, Joe Eccleton – now the Executive Principal – has already played a role in ensuring the academic programme best meets boys’ needs in 2024. “While the academic programme has always been a great strength of College, it probably needed some refreshment when I arrived,” Garth says. “In a coincidental piece of good fortune, I appointed the next Assistant Principal – Curriculum, Joe Eccleton, in my first term. Joe was asked to consider whether our curriculum was fit for purpose. “From that came the creation of the Centre for Teaching Excellence & Research (CTER) and, by connection, the introduction of the College Diploma. While the reflection that led to those outcomes was initiated by Joe, the Diploma was implemented by Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning Nicole Billante, CTER members, and the entire staff, and has been a great success for boys in the middle years of high school.” Garth has remained committed to the College academic programme being “first among equals”, supported by a “rich co-curricular programme”. He believes that ‘Each boy at his best’ is reflected in a balanced, fun, school experience. “We now have more subjects to choose from in the upper school and the Diploma is based on the motivation that a wider choice of interesting and engaging subjects is a much better option than doing
exam after exam,” he explains. “Replacing NCEA Level 1 with our Diploma has been a strong motivator for our boys' learning. “Meanwhile, our College Graduate
outcomes from our 2020 strategic plan aligned our character- focused introduction of Round Square membership. The IDEALS of Round Square began to
12
He also sought to “celebrate and integrate the bicultural nature of New Zealand” by shaping a modern school as related to enrolment. “We now look to celebrate the bicultural essence of this country and have allowed that to grow and flourish at College,” he says. In tandem, Garth highlights the co-curricular programme as “phenomenal” – enabled by teachers still being involved, and enhanced by external expertise. “Co-curricular enables boys to find who they are, and, therefore, its breadth has to match the nature of the boy, as you do in academic subjects, so that boys can taste and test and find themselves,” he says. “It is all about change and continuity.
Schools such as College do not need revolution – they need evolution. While people like change, they also have respect for the past. So the balancing of those two is the key.” Garth believes he has managed this fine balance during his past eight-and-a-half years at Christ’s College.
challenge our aspirations for the development of the whole boy. I believe this has made College look up and look out. Given College’s geographical circumstance, it always needs to be part of something bigger than ourselves. In the sense of character and experiential education, I think the international perspective of Round Square and its focus on leadership and service have really driven constructive and positive outcomes for our boys.” Equally, Garth has been proactive in “ensuring that the school reflects the community of which we are a part”, removing the entrance exam, “which was as much a deterrent as it was an attraction” and making the school more open and accessible.
“The idea of change and continuity is so important. If you are talking about co-
curricular, just that aspiration for excellence in a wide and sweeping programme gives boys various opportunities to explore who they may become outside the traditional classroom.” He is equally proud of Wellbeing Education at College, appreciating the contributions of the many
COLLEGE 2024
13
people involved in developing this programme over time and that the programme is now integral to school life and caring for boys. “With the challenges of a contemporary school, the issues of mental health and wellbeing are different from when I started,” he explains. “Today, we are in a very good place. Boys have an opportunity to think deeply about how to care for themselves and others. Staff, student, and community wellbeing – as can be influenced by the school – is a priority through specialist programmes.”
He also acknowledges the importance of the Advancement team at College, underpinning the positive evolution of a modern, independent school for boys that still thrives on traditions while promoting community connections and engagement. The school also hosts several unique programmes, such as the Year 10 “Immerse & Inspire programme that our community really values and from which the College culture grows”. “The character of our graduates is the key to their future success,”
he points out. “Hopefully, when we blend these things together – our Anglican foundation, our virtues, our mission, and our dynamic programme – we create a fantastic experience for our boys.” Throughout his tenure, Garth has valued his “brilliant executive team” and particularly acknowledges Rob Donaldson as ‘his’ Deputy. He believes he has been fortunate to “work with a fantastic group of people through multiple layers of this vibrant school community”. “From the Board to the catering
14
“The character of our graduates is the key to their future success. Hopefully, when we blend these things together – our Anglican foundation, our virtues, our mission, and our dynamic programme – we create a fantastic experience for our boys.”
staff, I have been valued and acknowledged and we have been able to achieve so much together for the College community,” Garth says. He has also enjoyed working alongside parents and Old Boys through their committees. “From Old Boy Posters to House Music in the Town Hall, so much has been achieved.” However, Garth knows there will be challenges for his successor. “College is not an easy business to run when balancing the needs
of the boys, the programme we wish to offer, and the reality of our heritage campus,” he says. “The value though for the parents of an independent, faith-based school for boys sees the future secure. “Christchurch has been a lovely, sweet place to live and, along with my wife, Annie, we have enjoyed it. I have been extraordinarily fortunate to have Annie alongside me in my career, as my counsel and supporter. Any success attributed to me is a direct reflection of the people who have surrounded me.”
Garth is looking forward to his new role with Round Square, working with – and supporting – a range of schools committed to character and experiential education across the globe, and returning to his home base of Brisbane. He leaves College in great heart and the College mission is “our ongoing aspiration in all that we do … Each boy at his best”.
COLLEGE 2024
15
16
MOTIVATION
Motivation Manawa hihiko
Personal and collective wellbeing relies on an understanding of character strengths and an informed appreciation of how we can bring ourselves and the groups of which we are a part to their best. As a small, faith-based Anglican boys’ school, College will formulate an approach to motivation informed by the latest research and ongoing self-assessment and reflection. The focus to 2025 will be to develop understandings and actions for the benefit of all, but especially the three key stakeholders in the College experience: students, staff, and parents. Our aim will be to create an atmosphere of excellence, where all are motivated to contribute to the collective good, as well as being personally motivated to aspire to be at their best.
COLLEGE 2024
17
Angus Gifford – the science to being one of the best
I n an inspiring College feat, the winner of the 2023 Wacher Prize for Academic Head of School, Angus Gifford, has also achieved NZQA Scholarships in an impressive seven subjects. Placing Angus among the best in each subject, he has been awarded Scholarship in English, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Geography, and Religious Studies, having also gained Scholarship in English and Biology in Year 12. Capping his final year at College, Angus has been the recipient of four premier scholarships for study in 2024, including the University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship, the University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship,
the Victoria University of Wellington Kahotea Scholarship, and the University of Canterbury Hiranga Scholarship for Academic Excellence. He has accepted a place at Otago, opting for the Health Sciences First Year programme in Dunedin in pursuit of a career in medicine as an emergency specialist. Lauded in his College prize-giving citation for his “insight and thinking at the highest level”, and his academic accomplishments throughout his time at school, Angus was the top Gold Tie student in both Years 11 and 12, as well as earning an Excellence endorsement in all Level 2 subjects. His citation acknowledges his “work ethic, intelligence, and strength of character”, highlighting
his “perseverance and love of learning” while acknowledging that his talents extend well beyond the classroom. In his final year, Angus has gained the most College prizes, including the Barnett Prize for Physics, the AE Flower Prize for Science, the Dr FG Westenra Prize for Medical Studies, the Nichols Prize for Science, the Barnett Prize for Biology, the Barnett Prize for Mathematics, and the Major Rattray Prize for English Literature. Equally importantly to Angus, he has achieved his Gold Duke of Edinburgh Hillary Award while also dedicating much of his time to helping others and singing with Schola Cantorum. Outside school, Angus has been involved with the March 15 Maths and English Academe, a community service tutoring programme supporting the children of the victims of the 2019 mosque attacks, and a member of Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury Youth Advisory Council,
“Life in Jacobs has been really good, along with the benefits of a Housemaster who supports you in whatever you want to do well in.”
18
MOTIVATION
COLLEGE 2024
19
advocating for the health needs of young people. Reflecting on his time at College, Angus notes changes, an evolving and more positive environment, and a few challenges along the way. While the 2023 Head of Academic at College was on an upward trajectory in his final three years, his introduction to the school – after arriving in 2019 on a Choral Music Scholarship following his years in the Christ Church
Cathedral choristers – was “a bit of a shock”. As a reserved student from The Cathedral Grammar School, “I wasn’t completely sure of anything at College, especially the House system”. Settling into Jacobs House, Angus soon appreciated the supportive hub of the House – and the Housemaster, Matt Thatcher. “Life in Jacobs has been really good, along with the benefits of a Housemaster who supports you
in whatever you want to do well in,” he says. “While College initially was an unknown, it got better and better as I got to know everyone. I also was not that focused on academics in my first two years but that all changed in Year 11. “I really enjoyed English as a subject from the start, but Year 11 was my turning point for a greater science focus, particularly in Biology and Chemistry. I had wanted to be an architect and did Design and Visual Communication
20
MOTIVATION
boys from all year groups and Houses to get involved in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) activities while highlighting the values of those skills in post-College life. He has also appreciated the opportunity to be involved in the Immerse & Inspire residential programme for Year 10 students, offering advice and guidance for the years ahead. In a busy few years, Angus topped the 2023 Otago Senior Science Quiz and was part of the Biology
made a “big difference” to his life, inspiring a commitment to academic study. In Years 12–13, Angus has valued the freedom to undertake Scholarship exams, pointing to the different skills required to succeed. “Aside from the monetary value of Scholarship subject exams towards your university costs, you gain a great deal from sitting those exams,” he explains. “They require different skills and are not like NCEA, where you are often just learning content. With Scholarship exams, you are learning to problem solve and also have the chance to get to know other people focusing on the exams and to learn so much more from your teachers.” As for his own College journey, Angus encourages nervous new
Olympiad programme, along with several other academic achievements. He has also
performed in House Music in the small group category for the past three years and sung in the Sedley Wells Competition at College. Angus believes that the high calibre of the College teachers has greatly contributed to his academic success, along with the strong support for co-curricular activities and pastoral care. He appreciates the contributions of Graeme Christey and Dr Tom Hawkins (Duke of Edinburgh), and Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning Nicole Billante. He highlights that teachers Dr Graeme Swanson (Biology), Chris Waugh and Ginny Patterson (English), Scott Franklin (Chemistry), Director of Music Robert Aburn, and Elaine Tang and Steve Everingham (Languages) have all underpinned his achievements. Old Boys Yusef Elnahas and Claude Tellick, who were a year or two ahead of Angus, also
arrivals “to keep going”. “While I found those early
times hard and was not socially equipped for the House system, I discovered that things just resolved themselves and by Year 11 I found myself moving into a great environment with a strong group of friends.”
up to Year 11, but my interests soon turned towards medicine and Health Sciences. However, my toughest subject was probably Japanese, which I studied through to Year 12.” Along with finding his way, Angus also has discovered a wider group of like-minded students who enjoy an academic challenge. As a Prefect, he has proved to be a strong leader of the Academic Committee, introducing and driving STEM Week. It encourages
COLLEGE 2024
21
Lachie Short – a gifted leader across the board
S trongly committed to leading by example, Head of Boarding Lachie Short has left his mark on the College community, culminating in being named runner-up to the Wacher Prize for Academic Head of School and being awarded The Executive Principal’s Prize for Service. Joining the ranks of New Zealand’s most remarkable scholars, Lachie has also been acknowledged with an Outstanding Scholar Award for high achievement by NZQA. Lauded by College as the “personification of hard work and determination in academic pursuits”, Lachie has gained Outstanding Scholarships in History, and Health and Physical Education, along with Scholarships in English, Statistics, and Media Studies in the 2023 national exams. Impressively, he also achieved Scholarship English in Year 12. With an “impeccable academic” record across six subjects in Year 13 – reflecting “a commitment to working at the highest possible standard” – Lachie has been the
recipient of a Gold Badge and a Gold Tie for his stellar results in both NCEA Level 1 and Level 2. For study in 2024, Lachie has been awarded the University of Otago Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship, the Victoria University of Wellington School Leaver Scholarship (Tangiwai), the University of Auckland Top Achiever Scholarship, and the University of Canterbury Hiranga Scholarship for Academic Excellence. As a strong Humanities scholar, he has been described as an “incredibly genuine, hardworking, and dedicated student” who consistently shows “remarkable skills”. His College citation points out that Lachie’s “phenomenal results have been achieved in the context of a busy leadership role” while his critical-thinking and musical skills have all contributed to College life. At all times he has shown “an incredible focus and resolve”. In his final year, Lachie has also been awarded the Prize for Psychology, the TR Moore Prize for Statistics, the Tancred Prize
for Literature, and the Tancred Prize for History. “I was driven more towards the Humanities in my senior years, particularly enjoying English, History, and Psychology,” he says. “Samantha Stevenson (HoD History) and Chris Waugh (HoD English and Scholarship English) have been standout teachers and the feedback from all my teachers has definitely pushed and inspired me.” Empowered by a structured boarding environment, Lachie credits his time in Flower’s House as a major contributor to his many achievements. “Christ’s College and Flower’s House have created the environment to succeed, enabling me to take personal pride in challenging myself to do the best that I can,” Lachie explains. “That aspirational mindset is ingrained in this place.” As the recipient of The Executive Principal’s Prize for Service, Lachie’s “exemplary leadership and service and dedication to raising the profile of the boarding community” have been
22
MOTIVATION
COLLEGE 2024
23
“Christ’s College and Flower’s House have created the environment to succeed, enabling me to take personal pride in challenging myself to do the best that I can.”
highlighted, with the school describing his tenure as Head of Boarding as “exceptional”. During his final year, he has helped to organise the student sleepout on the Quad to highlight homelessness in the city, along with raising nearly $4000 for the City Mission, and been involved with the Love Grace x Handbag Appeal, supporting the Christchurch Aunties group to empower victims of domestic abuse. He has also taken on the role of Sony Camp companion, supporting young people with disabilities. For Lachie, his biggest ‘win’ within the College community is ensuring that “boarders are more visible in the wider school”. “Being Head of Boarding in 2023 has been great,” he says. “The role has changed in my year. With the wide boarding set-up – and covering three different Houses – it has been a struggle to define the role previously. Right from the start, I have believed that the Head of Boarding can do more in the wider school and be more visible to all the boys. “There has been positive feedback over the changes, with a more prominent role in helping to run assemblies and organise the school ball. Within the boarding Houses, I have continued to run activities for the juniors, and also built stronger connections with
St Margaret’s College and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School. “In Term 1, I was fortunate to attend a boarding schools conference in Palmerston North and that helped to guide some of the changes to the role. It was also valuable being able to talk to other students in my position. I have aimed to become a conduit between boarding and the wider school while lifting the role of boarding in the College community.” Lachie reflects fondly on his time in Flower’s House, having been well-prepared for the structured environment following his years as a boarder at Waihi School. “While it was a bit of a culture shock moving from the country to the big city, we had just as many boarders as dayboys at Waihi, so I knew what to expect,” he says. “From Year 9, those good habits are ingrained in you, including early starts and not staying up late. In Flower’s House, I had boys around me doing the same thing and that helped – sticking to routines. It has certainly been an advantage with those routines in places. And the support system is a major factor for me. Housemaster Lionel Randall has been amazing. He is one of the most passionate, dedicated guys, and has got the boys’ backs 100 per cent. It is such a tight-knit culture. All the boys are
encouraged and accepted for whatever passions they have. And we greatly appreciated Matron Karen Adams. All the boys said she was our second mum.” An asset to the school debating programme and a valuable member of the Chapel Choir, Lachie has also stepped into the spotlight in several productions, including As You Like It , Light at the End of the Tunnel , and Peter Pan , and received an Honours Tie for Drama. He has also had leading roles in the REACTION House Plays and been involved with House Music. Equally importantly on the sporting side, Lachie has again led from the front as captain of the Ravens football team in his final year. For Lachie, it has been an exceptional year. While his personal highlights include “boarding and academics” – particularly having the “environment to succeed and taking personal pride in challenging myself to do the best that I possibly can” – his time at the school has been topped off with the trip of a lifetime. “Our North American football tour was the biggest highlight of my five years at Christ’s College,” he says. “With all that was happening, I debated about going on the three-week tour in September–October 2023.
24
MOTIVATION
However, I knew that I would never get that chance again. It is a rare opportunity that other schools just cannot give you.” After a whirlwind final year, Lachie takes on his next challenge at the University of Auckland, studying for a double degree. “I am doing a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Politics,” he says. “At this point, I am interested in criminal or corporate law but am
leaving the door open to other opportunities with the BA. I also aim to do post-graduate study at a top university overseas, like Oxford or Cambridge.” To the next generation of College boys, Lachie urges new students to “stay focused, make friends, take the lead, and get involved”. “Make the most of your time in all areas, including through sport, service, and culture. It is a privilege to be at this school.
For me, definitely the best thing in my educational life has been being a boarder at Christ’s College.”
COLLEGE 2024
25
Senior Sportsman of the Year AJ Madondo – a leap of faith for US track and field
N orth America-bound star sprinter and triple jumper AJ Madondo has added another cup to his packed trophy case, winning the 2023 Christ’s College Senior Sportsman of the Year award for his exceptional feats on the track and in the field. Having already represented New Zealand on the track in Brisbane, Australia, AJ geared up for his move to the United States, having won an athletics scholarship to Charleston Southern University in South Carolina. With his move onto the international podium, AJ has weighed up the best approach to having the biggest impact. “When considering the different College scholarships on offer in the United States, my biggest requirements have been to find the right environment and the right conditions to run the fastest times,” he explains. While AJ has been surprised to win the Senior Sportsman award,
the reasons for the decision are very clear in his College prize- giving citation. College describes the young athlete’s achievements as “nothing short of remarkable”, highlighting that “AJ’s journey is a testament to his resilience and determination”. “With a string of victories and an unwavering commitment, AJ embodies the true spirit of dedication to the pursuit of athletic excellence,” it reads. AJ says it is “great to be acknowledged as the Senior Sportsman of the Year, but I am actually quite surprised as there are so many good sportsmen at College”. “However, it is a great pleasure to see my efforts and achievements recognised by College in my last year of representing the school in track and field, and football,” he adds. “The award also recognises my emergence in track and field competition, and the wonderful
opportunity to help the boys out with my selection for the 1st XI football team to compete at the 2023 national tournament. “I had initially considered a career in football. However, I had to make the call regarding sport and opted to go with my greatest strengths – track and field.” AJ believes that College has been a major driver in his success over the past few years. “College is the one standout school in the country that has a club system,” he says. “That allows me to compete as an athlete at the weekend as part of the school. College has also helped me to race in Australia and in the North Island. It has definitely empowered my journey to the athletics world stage.”
Reflecting on his last year at College, AJ admits his
extraordinary rise to compete against the best young athletes in New Zealand and Australia has taken him by surprise.
26
MOTIVATION
Encouraged by Athletics Master- in-Charge Graeme Christey and coach Matt Thatcher, he only opted to focus on athletics in October 2022 after showing his speed on the football field. Just six months later, AJ won multiple titles at the Canterbury Secondary Schools Track & Field Championships, including the U19 triple jump (13.85m), the
100m (11.22sec), and the 200m (22.51sec). In April 2023, he won the U19 triple jump (13.57m) and U19 200m (21.93) at the South Island Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships. He also finished 2nd in the U19 100m (11.19). That same month, he helped to power the national U18 4x100m relay team to 2nd place – and a New Zealand-record 41.46sec – at
the Australian Junior Track & Field Championships in Brisbane and finished 5th in the 200m. In May 2023, AJ was awarded the Junior Athlete of the Year title at the Athletics Canterbury Awards. At that point, he had been training in earnest for only seven months. In December 2023, AJ won the national senior triple jump title, set a personal-best 10.64sec in the
COLLEGE 2024
27
100m quarter-final, and finished 3rd in the 100m final at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Athletics Championships at Ngā Puna Wai. Despite an injury ruling the outstanding athlete out of the 200m final and hampering his 100m final run, AJ certainly made his mark, being named in the New Zealand representative team. In securing the triple jump title, AJ only needed two jumps to record 14.17m – well ahead of his rivals. “Running for New Zealand has been very special but the encouragement and support of Executive Principal Garth Wynne prior to that trip remain among my school highlights,” AJ says. “Definitely having a conversation with Mr Wynne before competing in Australia had an impact. His support and backing was so appreciated. He was very determined that I would get on the plane and do my best in Australia.” While AJ chases his own dreams, he has also taken on the role of coach, guiding the next generation of promising youth athletes at the Phoenix Athletic Club in Christchurch. He underlines the importance of “always giving back”, valuing the many opportunities during his time at College. “My personal highlights at College and as a member of Julius House are definitely being a part of so many opportunities, including the football team, tournaments in 2022 and 2023, and interhouse activities. Equally, I value my strong bonds and relationships with the boys at College. They have carried me through my
schooling and will be beneficial in the future as well. I have made good friends and have always felt supported by the College system.” On the academic side of school life, AJ has enjoyed Accounting, praising Teacher-in-Charge Jennifer Thomas for being a “big help in the classroom, and, in my final year, being very supportive of my future goals”. He plans to study Computer Science in the US and eventually become a software engineer while also coaching young athletes. Along with his many competitive achievements, AJ cites his “first time stepping into the College grounds in Year 9 for House activities” as a turning point in his life. “Bonding with those boys in Julius House and getting that first sense of what it was going to be like at College and the overall environment, that really set me up for the five years to come,” he says. To the next generation, AJ encourages new students to “keep your options open with subject choices, music, and sport, and never burn your bridges too early” as you need to stay open to all avenues when starting your journey.
“Running for New Zealand has been very special but the encouragement and support of Executive Principal Garth Wynne prior to that trip remain among my school highlights.”
28
MOTIVATION
COLLEGE 2024
29
Junior Sportsman of the Year Jack Hansen- Ratter – advantage on centre court
B elieve in yourself, strive to be stronger, and never give up – that is the mantra of 2023 Junior Sportsman of the Year Jack Hansen-Ratter. At age 15, the Condell’s House student capped a remarkable year on tennis courts in New Zealand, Australia, and Asia with the awarding of the premier sports title at College. He also was named in the 2024 New Zealand Junior Davis Cup team to take on some of the world’s best young players at the Asia-Oceania qualifying tournament in Kazakhstan. Balancing tennis and school commitments, Jack has developed routines and devised study methods to still perform well in both areas. Achieving
his Silver Diploma – with Gold in Discovery & Challenge in tandem with a successful season on the court underlines Jack’s resilience and aspirational approach to each day. Jack adds that Tennis Master- in-Charge Josh Kim has played a positive role in enabling his ability to manage both sport and schoolwork, “and always supports me to perform at my best”. “Overall, College has given me the confidence to follow my tennis dreams while my parents have always encouraged me and supported my journey,” he says. “And 2023 has been my best year – representing New Zealand in Australia and playing in three ITF (International Tennis Federation) tournaments in Asia. I have
certainly returned to New Zealand a much better player.” Jack represented New Zealand in the 15 and Under section at the Australian Teams Championships on the Gold Coast in July 2023, recording impressive wins against rising Australian players. Next up, he won the Tennis New Zealand junior masters in Auckland. At the end of 2023, he faced strong rivals at three ITF tournaments in Thailand and Vietnam. Jack featured in a four- strong team chosen by Tennis New Zealand to compete at the tournament in Thailand and two tournaments in Ho Chi Minh City. Despite the challenges of international players and soaring
temperatures and humid conditions, he relished the experience.
30
MOTIVATION
I began to travel to tournaments in Wellington and Auckland and played my way through to more semi-finals. “I was developing as a player and as a person as well. At age 14, I reached the indoor nationals singles final and won the doubles final. Things really started to kick off.” By July 2022, Jack was ranked No.1 nationally in his age group and taking on older players. In November that year, he won the New Zealand Junior Masters U14 title. He has now won multiple titles and has helped College to secure Canterbury and South Island team wins. Junior Davis Cup While juggling NCEA Physics, Chemistry, Calculus, French, and English at College, Jack remains focused on a professional tennis career, aiming to travel the world, and play for New Zealand. He also hopes to win a sports scholarship to a top university in the United States to further his opportunities and education. For Jack, tailoring his preparation, training hard, and staying engaged and positive on the court all adds up to being his best. While he knows he has the talent, he also understands that it requires determination and resilience to stay in the game while mastering the mindset to succeed. “I constantly strive to push myself to my limits and playing tennis and going to College has allowed me to do this.”
“Playing in the three ITF tournaments in Asia has been my best tennis experience so far,” Jack says. “Training in that hot and humid environment and facing a top-300 player was incredible. I came back so much stronger. Against those high-level players, your game becomes so much better.” In April 2024, he featured in two U18 ITF tournaments in Fiji, highlighting the importance of “playing good – often older – players in order to lift your own game”. The genesis of that talent was discovered on the courts of the Sumner Tennis Club when – at age nine – his tennis skills were noticed by then head coach Lynn O’Dell. “My father played tennis and my parents put me in the Hot Shots Tennis programme,” he recalls. “That was where it started and
then developing my skills with Lynn O'Dell. She told my parents that I had potential and gave me my first lesson when I was about age nine. I had two forehands when I started out, so that was changed to a forehand and a backhand. “I always loved the sport and started playing in tournaments when I was about 10 or 11. I just loved being on the court and enjoyed the competitiveness of the game. At 12, I moved to a new coach, (2019 Tennis NZ high performance coach of the year) Andrew Falck. However, Lynn still checks in with me, which is great. “I train up to four times a week with Andrew at Wilding Park. From about 11, I started travelling to small towns to compete. Then my tennis career stepped up after I reached the U12 doubles final at the nationals age group in 2019.
COLLEGE 2024
31
32
MOTIVATION
From tip-off to buzzer-beating jump shot – College commands court
W ith only three seconds left on the clock, Christ’s College won its second national basketball title in 2024, celebrating one of the greatest seasons in school sport history. With the scores tied at 88–88, national tournament MVP Tama Isaac stepped up to land a two- point floating jump shot before sealing the win with a free throw, delivering a 91–88 victory over Napier Boys’ High School in the final moments. Driven home by leading scorers Ihaka Cate (24 points), Hoani Ifopo-Togia (24), Tama (20), and Boston Paerata (17), the unbeaten tournament powerhouse would not be denied in the final game. Ihaka (10), Tama (seven), and Hoani (seven) also led the court in total rebounds while Tama (five) and Hoani (four) took the honours in assists. For College, it was the second title win in three years, following the breakthrough victory in 2022. Ihaka – then in Year 10 – was a
member of that first champion team, along with 2024 players Aston Nijjar, Gus Eglinton, and Truman Heath. As Ihaka explains, the 2024 national basketball title “means everything”. “Winning was unreal. The atmosphere and electric energy in those final seconds were so overwhelming – it was the first time I had felt so nervous and stressed this whole year. The title was so close to our grasp and that final was just something else. We have worked so hard and winning the title is a recognition of that hard work.
“We always strive to improve further as a team and build that chemistry that has carried us through the whole year, so to win that national title is truly amazing. “We are strong because we are focused on making each other better. During the whole year, we have been driven by the motto:’ We, Us, Our’. Everything we have done – from training to simply hanging out – has been for the benefit of making each other better and strengthening the connections we have with each other. We have held our training standards to a very high level and have not settled
“This title builds on our legacy as a school. We are a school that praises quality, effort, and unity and this title reflects those values. I hope it stands as a goal and aspiration for all those boys coming to College.”
COLLEGE 2024
33
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 87 Page 88 Page 89 Page 90 Page 91 Page 92 Page 93 Page 94 Page 95 Page 96 Page 97 Page 98 Page 99 Page 100 Page 101 Page 102 Page 103 Page 104 Page 105 Page 106 Page 107 Page 108 Page 109 Page 110 Page 111 Page 112 Page 113 Page 114 Page 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 118 Page 119 Page 120 Page 121 Page 122 Page 123 Page 124 Page 125 Page 126 Page 127 Page 128 Page 129 Page 130 Page 131 Page 132 Page 133 Page 134 Page 135 Page 136 Page 137 Page 138 Page 139 Page 140 Page 141 Page 142 Page 143 Page 144 Page 145 Page 146 Page 147 Page 148 Page 149 Page 150 Page 151 Page 152 Page 153 Page 154 Page 155 Page 156 Page 157 Page 158 Page 159 Page 160 Page 161 Page 162 Page 163 Page 164Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs