Robotics Tournament Results
“We had a successful tournament at our college last Saturday. Teams from Auckland, Waikato and Tauranga competed at the event, with over a hundred competitors milling around their “pits” and the competition fields. Just to make things a little more hectic, we also hosted an intermediate school competition at the same time in the PAC (only about 40 more people and their gear!).
The event was made possible by the huge contributions of our Robotics students, their parents, two ex-Oats Robotics parents, Garry Venman and Sarah Aldridge, who brought down a trailer load of gear from Auckland, and Kiwibots volunteers from Auckland. Garry and the volunteers did the Tech work, refereed, and ensured compliance with Vex competition rules. We even had 3 HODs from Auckland schools supporting their teams.
Our Robotics parents ran an awesome fundraising feast, feeding the horde and raising some much-needed funds. Our students and parents also spent what seemed like hours setting up the competition fields, then packing them away, cleaning the PAC and putting out all the chairs ready for an event on Sunday.
A huge shout goes to Liam Smythe, who volunteered to run the sound and lighting in the PAC, but ended up volunteering to be the tournament MC. He spent the entire day (with zero previous experience) commentating on all the matches, with only a lunch break. What a trooper!
On the business end of things, 6 of our teams qualified for the quarter finals, 2 of them reached the semi-finals, and our senior team (Rosa Sharp, Tom van de Pol and Indie Minshall) won the tournament”. – Deon Wessels
Hannah Richards Amazing Volunteer Work
Check out this Bay of Plenty Times article about Year 11 student Hannah Richard’s award for her amazing volunteer work!
Flag Day Fun
On Thursday of week 10, Ruamano Kōmiti held a ‘Flag Day’ to celebrate the myriad of cultures and nations represented here at kura. Staff and students were encouraged to wear cultural dress or display a flag, and they did not disappoint.
Manunui was the winning Maunga, with Maunganui not far behind!
Credit for photographs above – Cat Jones
School Board Election Results
“Pressed by The Sea” Exhibition by David Henderson
Kia ora Ōtūmoetai College Whānau,
I would like to invite you all to see my upcoming exhibition “Pressed by The Sea” which reflects my connection to the coast: the movement of waves and textures through the process of woodblock reduction and bamboo printmaking. The opening night is part of the Incubator Art Street Party which launches four new shows. On that night you’ll have live music, refreshments.
The exhibition opens 5:30pm on Friday the 26th of September and runs for three weeks.
If you haven’t visited the Historic Village lately, now’s a great time to check out the new café, sweet shop, and freshly painted footpath murals — and of course, my art! – David Henderson
Pasifika Festival in the Bay – 1 November 2025
Stalls for this event to fundraise and participate in the event are still available.
If you would like to know more please scan the QR code.
Alternatively contact Rebekah Whyte rwhyte@omokoroapoint.school.nz
There are limited stalls spaces available.
The closing date for application to hold a stall is on Friday 10th October.
Youth Voices Action – Youth Panel Opportunity – 30 September
This is an invitation to all Ōtūmoetai College students for an awesome opportunity coming up during the school holidays on Tuesday 30th September, 10am–2pm in Tauranga.
YVA is building a brand-new platform that is being designed for young people, by young people – and this is your chance to be part of shaping it.
If you are passionate about leadership, making change, or just want to try something new register here now – spaces are limited.
- Free kai + giveaways
- A secret Tauranga Central location (announced once you register)
- A chance to connect with other young people, share ideas, and make real impact
- Limited spots, so those who are keen and ready will get in first
This isn’t just another workshop. It’s about making sure youth voices are heard where it actually matters, while having some fun at the same time.
Rotary Club of Ōtūmoetai Car Boot Sale – Sunday 5th October
Young Driver Workshop FREE Registrations – 1 & 2 October
This free workshop is designed to boost your knowledge, confidence, and driving skills. It’s ideal for young drivers aged 16–24 who currently hold a learner or restricted licence.
Each workshop includes:
- Driver behaviour education (speed, impairment, restraints, distraction, and fatigue)
- A 60-minute one-on-one driving lesson with a certified instructor
- Waka Kotahi NZTA vehicle safety and roadworthiness checks
- Tips for sharing the road with heavy vehicles and vulnerable users
- Understanding the importance of star safety ratings
Upcoming Workshop Dates:
- Wednesday 1st October – Papamoa Sports & Recreation Centre (Gordon Spratt Reserve), 80 Alice Way, Papamoa Beach
- Thursday 2nd October – Bethlehem Baptist Church, 90 Bethlehem Road, Bethlehem.
Register Here
For more information, feel free to contact the Travel Safe School Coordinator at: travelsafeschools@tauranga.govt.nz
Get the Tools to Guide Your Teen Driver – 16 October
Driver Coach FREE 1-hour Workshop – Are you teaching your teen to drive or have a young driver in the family? Road Safety Education have partnered with Toyota to offer a free workshop called Driver Coach on October 16 at 6:00pm at Bethlehem Baptist Church.
This popular workshop is designed to help parents and caregivers support their children through the learning-to-drive process. Research shows that teens become safer drivers when their parents are involved and set clear boundaries. The Driver Coach program aims to give you the tools you need for this important journey.
During this 1-hour workshop, you’ll learn from a License Tester:
- How the teenage brain works and the best approach to road safety education.
- The difference between instructing and coaching your child.
- Core safety issues for young drivers.
- How to understand the graduated licensing system.
- Tips for choosing a safe vehicle (explaining ANCAP stars).
This is a completely free session with no obligation. It’s an excellent chance to get expert advice and support.
