Ringa Toi Exhibition Congratulations
Congratulations to the following students who have had their work accepted into the upcoming Ringa Toi Exhibition in Wellington.

Sahara Mckay (Year 12 Photography) with her ‘Shells’ photographs

Caoimhe Conner (Year 13 Painting) – her work is called Tūwhitia te hopo, mairangatia te angitū

Autumn Taingahue (Year 11) (2nd in from the left) – Papa whakarei – Traditional Māori carving pattern board
Lushuane Johnstone Ruthe (Year 11) (3rd in from the left) – Papa whakarei – Traditional Māori carving pattern board
Senior Art Exhibition – 10 September

2027 Trip to Argentina Opportunity!
Join us in April 2027 for a three-week educational trip in Argentina!
This immersive experience combines real-world language practice with an unforgettable dive into Argentine history, arts, and traditions.
We will live and learn in the bustling heart of Buenos Aires, practicing Spanish daily while exploring historic neighborhoods, world-class museums, and local cuisine. We will also venture north, experiencing the stunning natural beauty of Iguazu Falls and the biodiversity of South America.
This trip is for 2027 Senior students only.
Find out more in our Information evening on Tuesday, 22nd September (Week 10) at 6pm, in the School Staff Room.
Flag Day – Thursday 10 September
Flag day is coming up NEXT WEEK – Thursday 10 September. Students and staff are encouraged to come to school in cultural dress. Please note: This is NOT a mufti day.
Students come dressed fully in cultural dress, or part thereof along with their uniform, or in their uniform with a flag. Maunga points are awarded to anyone in cultural dress and prizes will be awarded to the best dressed students AND kaiako!
FAQs:
- I’m from New Zealand only. Can I wear kiwiana (gumboots, swanndri, All Blacks kit)? Yes, absolutely!
- I have family from multiple places, can I bring/wear multiple flags? Yes, of course!
- I just want to wear my lavalava. What should I wear on top? You’re allowed to wear partial cultural dress. Wear your lavalava and wear your uniform shirt/sweatshirt on top.
- My family is British. Can I come dressed as Winston Churchill? Sure, fill your boots.
- My mum is American and I was born in New York. Can I dress up like the Statue of Liberty? Go ahead.
- I have no links to Scandinavia but I’d love to come as a viking. Can I? No. If you aren’t Scandinavian and you dress up like a viking, that’s cultural appropriation. Someone’s culture is NOT your costume. Rule of thumb: Unless you can whakapapa back to it, don’t do it.
- I have an idea but I’m not sure if it’s appropriate. Second rule of thumb: If you have to ask, then it probably isn’t. Remember school rules apply. No drug or alcohol references. If your outfit might offend someone, don’t wear it.
- Can I just wear regular clothes? No, this is NOT a mufti day. You wear cultural dress or your uniform. You don’t have to take part but it would be neat if you did.
Lion Foundation Play it Strange Songwriting Finalist
Congratulations to George Cowan on his success. George has been named as one of the finalists in this year’s Lion Foundation Play it Strange Songwriting Competition.
The prize is a day in a professional recording studio, bringing his musical ideas to life. This will be included on the school album for all to hear later in the year.
Should I keep my child home from school?
Ōtūmoetai Social Supermarket Donate to Dine – 22 October
On Thursday 22nd October Ōtūmoetai Social Supermarket (OSS) is taking over Sugo Restaurant for a special evening to raise support. Come and enjoy a night out with great food, music and company, all for a fantastic cause.
If you can’t make this you can still support the event by donating a silent auction item!
Where your support goes: Funds raised will go directly towards keeping shelves stocked and ensuring the Ōtūmoetai Social Supermarket can continue to provide this vital service for our community.
Tickets: $150 per person.
Half of every ticket goes directly to OSS. Whether you book a seat or a whole table, your night out will help create something meaningful for local families.
On the night your ticket will get you:
- A three-course meal crafted by Sugo’s award-winning chef
- Champagne on arrival
- Live entertainment throughout the evening
- Ability to bid on some great silent auction items.
- A chance to connect with friends, neighbours, and our wider Tauranga community
For further information please email office@oss.org.nz





