Edgewater College Yearbook 2020

Matou

Yearbook 2020

EDGEWATER COLLEGE



Contents

BOT Chair Message 2 Football 38
Principal’s Message 3 Kiwi League Tag 39
Student Leaders 4 Netball 40
Staff Changes 7 Orienteering 42
Covid-19 10 Table Tennis 42
Rugby 43
Academic and Service Volleyball 45

Senior Prizegiving 12 Whānau and 11
Excellence Endorsement 15 Community
Junior Prizegiving 16 47
PSSP and Peer Support 18 Whānau Leader Reports
EOTC/ODED 19 Whānau Competitions 49
Book Week 20 Year 13 Camp
Enviro Club / MITTA 21 International Students 53
Young Enterprise Scheme 22 Student Committees
SVA 23 School Ball 52
Spirit of Adventure 23
Learning Areas 55
58
Culture Visual Art
Drama 25
Kapa Haka 25 Edge Innovation
Samoan Group 25 Programme 62
Tongan Group 26 Employment Skills
Cook Islands Group 26 English 64
Cultural Evening 27 Gateway / Industry
Japanese Group (Tounagisa) 29 Pathways 65
Film Club 29 Japanese
Music Events 30 Mathematics 66
Artwork 32 Media Studies
Music 67
PE / Health / ODED
Science 68
Social Sciences
Technology 3469
Te Reo Māori
70

70

71

Sport 35 72
35
Badminton 36 73 Class of 2020
Chess
Basketball 74 79
Class of 2020

75

77

FEATURED ARTWORK: PRODUCTION

Front & Back Cover: Jade Thompson-Tavai Yearbook Committee: Michelle Prasad,
Ma’asi Ta’akimoeaka, Adrienne Anae, Sini
Inside Front: Tyra-Jade Wanoa Pa’o-salu, Ameleah Leone, Mele Ta’ofi,
Inside Back: Mistique Korosso Meliame Tatafu, Claren Nookura

Design and Printing:
Repro Graphics NZ Ltd

MĀTOU - 2020 1

Message From the Board of Trustees

2020 will certainly go down in the history books and embraced our values of being caring, curious and
it is remarkable to think that in generations to courageous. The Board would like to acknowledge
come we will have been a part of a worldwide event the entire school community for coming together to
where Aotearoa New Zealand’s response to make the most of what has been a truly
COVID-19 will be discussed and debated. remarkable year.

Like everyone, the Board have had to learn to work A non-COVID milestone for the Board was the
remotely, navigating hui’s on zoom and learning finalisation of a new lease for our community marae
to focus on compliance with the alert level Te Tahawai Marae. This could not have been
restrictions. I would like to extend my thanks to my achieved without coming together in partnership
Board colleagues for their ongoing commitment - with the Marae kōmiti and finding a way to navigate
John Fale, Liz Watene, Johnathon Scanlan and the legalities while remaining focused on the
Sharon Gerber as Parent Trustees; Trudy Bennett essence of our relationship with each other.
from Te Tahawai Marae; Louise Addison in her role
as Principal, Kerryn Dawson as Staff Trustee and Edgewater College remains the best kept secret in
George Gray as Student Trustee, who was replaced East Auckland and the Board are incredibly proud
by Samuel Lama in the September election. A big of everyone who contributes to making the school
thank you also to Sue Wolfgram who as Board what it is. On behalf of the Board may I offer our
Secretary is resolute in keeping us all, but especially congratulations to all that have succeeded in their
me, on track. endeavours this year, especially in the face of
considerable adversity.
It is difficult to think of any specific highlights
outside of COVID-19 as learning to operate under the Finally, haere ra to the departing year 13 student
level restrictions has been a significant achievement. body and good luck with the next part of your
Under the leadership and guidance of Ms journey. I know that your time here at Edgewater will
Addison, Edgewater College has responded in a truly have prepared you well to be global citizens.
exceptional manner. Ms Addison and the Kei ōu ringaringa te ao – the world is yours.
senior leadership team have ensured that both staff
and students have been well supported and Jennie Valgre
were provided with positive and creative solutions to Board Chair
enable the best possible outcome under the Edgewater College, Board of Trustees
circumstances.

Staff and students in turn have risen the challenge,
demonstrated their resilience and have fully

2 MĀTOU - 2020

Principal's Message

At Edgewater College our three core values taught. We also made the decision to move
– Manaakitanga | Care, Māia | Courage to three longer sessions each day,
and Manawa Reka | Curiosity, with a focus on student directed
underpin our aspirations and learning opportunities. Again
expectations for all members this has given us amazing
of our school community. opportunities to focus on deep
2020 has been a year of and meaningful learning
significant challenge, not and not just on covering the
just for Edgewater College or curriculum. One example of
New Zealand, but our world this is the Te Ara Pounamu
as a whole as we have worked programme which was
to combat the COVID-19 run in collaboration with Te
pandemic. I want to commend Tahawai marae to support and
the students, staff and whānau enhance the potential of our
of Edgewater College for the junior Māori learners. Ngā mihi nui
outstanding way they have responded kia koutou to all those involved in this
to and grown during these unprecedented
times – we have truly seen the 3 “MCs” in action this pilot programme that we will look to extend
year. further in the future. The final significant shift has
been in our administration of the NCEA as we have
I am constantly inspired by the rangatahi had to ‘build our wings while flying the plane’. I have
of Edgewater College, by their talents and been incredibly impressed by the way our staff and
achievements in so many areas of endeavour: in students have risen to this challenge and ensured
academic work, cultural activities, in the arts, in our learners were able to achieve the qualifications
sports and in leadership. Whilst this yearbook they need for future study or employment.
records just a snapshot of 2020, through it you can
get a glimpse of the true heart and spirit of the To those of you leaving Edgewater College in 2020 I
students of our school and the staff that work with wish you all the very best for what I am sure will be
them on their learning journeys. amazing futures. Our school whakatauki, Whaia te
Ara o Tainui – to strive to follow the path of Tainui is
Our annual goal this year has been to foster Learner one that urges you to look to the future. I hope you
Agency and the pandemic has given us new ways use your memories of your time here as the waka
to not just meet this goal but really extend students that will propel you to seek out new adventures
taking leadership of their learning. In particular, the and share your care, curiosity and courage with the
provision of a number of devices by the Ministry of world.
Education meant we were able to move to full 1-1
device provision in which all learners have access Ngā mihi nui kia koutou
to a device at school. This has meant significant
change to not just how teaching and learning Ms Louise Addison
occurs at our school but also what and why it is Principal

MĀTOU - 2020 3

4 MĀTOU - 2020 STUDENT LEADERS 2020

Head Students Deputy Head Students BOT Student Trustee Māori Student Leader
George Gray Lavinia Marsh
Michelle Prasad Sini Pa’o-salu
Willy Leiataua Connor Magatogia

Academic Committee Pastoral Committee Community Committee

To support all students to reach their full To support all students to feel included and To enrich and enliven the student experience at
academic potential at Edgewater College valued as members of the Edgewater Edgewater College
College community

Leader Eric Wong Meliame Tatafu Stephanie Ibarra

Deputy Jade Thompson-Tavai Davinia Sivapragas TJ Salu
Associate
Sini Pa’o-salu Willy Leiataua George Gray
Connor Magatogia Michelle Prasad tbc

Committee Pritesh Patel Salesi Tuipulotu Hillary: Bella Wakerkwa
Yasmina Daskapan Christian Tausinga Sheppard: Carlos Florian

Ngata: Faiza Khan
Cooper: Ma’asi Ta’akimoeaka

Student Leaders

Whenever we see ourselves drawing towards the end of an era, we begin
to glance back at where it all began.It is hard to believe that a few years
ago I put on the Edgewater College uniform for the first time, yet what is
considerably harder to accept is that this uniform will now be stored away
as my souvenir and as a memory of my high school years. First of all, I am
very grateful to the staff for believing in my potential and giving me the
opportunity to serve the school as Head Girl.

2020 was quite a challenging year due to Covid, but I never forgot to Michelle
remind myself that no problem is greater than God. Being Head Girl for this
year really challenged me as a student, to balance my school work together
with my leadership roles and to be a great role model to other students as
well.

Secondly, I would also like to thank the student leaders for their tremendous work throughout the year. I
feel proud to say that we have performed very well, as our dean Mrs Scott says “the best student leaders
in Edgewater’s history”. Not forgetting our ups and downs that challenged us to step up to our duties to
ensure that everythings goes smoothly.

Thirdly, during my long years here at Edgewater College, I have learnt the power of believing in self
to achieve anything in life, to be excellent in everything you do, standing up when the times are the
toughest, respecting everyone, and most importantly trusting and believing in God.

Finally, I would like to thank God, Family, Staff at Edgewater College and Friends for always supporting and
believing in me. I love and appreciate all of you.

At the end, I would like to wish everyone all the best in future endeavours and may God bless us all.
- Michelle Rajnita Prasad, Head Student

MĀTOU - 2020 5

Willie I knew 2020 would be an unforgettable year, but not like this. Jokes
aside, this diamond of a school has grown on me and has nevertheless
helped me grow through these five years into the person I am today.
The connections I’ve made and experiences I’ve had have truly been
life-changing, to say the least.
I thank the teachers, staff, and caretakers for their undying support
and care through these years. Your hours of dedication do not go
unnoticed or in vain. Thank you to my family for pushing me to strive
for the best and to learn and live in faith, hope, and love - love being
the strongest lesson of the three. My dearest friends, I wish you all love
and laughter for the years ahead. Don’t forget who you are and where
you came from, and be steadfast in what you stand for and believe in.
Edgewater College has left an indelible mark on me, and my gratitude
for being in the privileged role of Head Boy this year is much more
than words could convey.
- Willie Leiataua, Head Student

Sini WOW! Five years passed by so fast, I still remember my first day as
a Year 9 at Edgewater College which still feels raw. As the years have
passed, my journey here at Edgewater College has been nothing but
good memories, good friends, great teachers and teachings. It has
been an absolute honour to leave school as the Deputy Head Girl. I had
my ups and downs within and out of school however friends, teachers
and family held me accountable in everything that I did, from playing
Rugby and Netball to playing Basketball and Table Tennis. From having
piano lessons with Mr Holmes to playing the Alto Saxophone in the Jazz
Band with Mr Arthur and being part of the EC Voices, my support team
has always been there for me from the day I walked through the Green
Gates of Edgewater to the day I graduated. Wishing all the best for the
future Head Students of 2021 - God Bless :)
- Sini Pa’o-salu, Deputy Head Student

Ah, Edgewater College. You strange, brilliant academy of education Connor
and prosperity. In my years that I have flourished in this wonderful
community, I am truly grateful for where I’ve been, what I've done and
where I am now. From the acting in the yearly productions, the climb up
the Table Tennis inter school ladder to the unforgettable musical tours
and camps. I’ve gleaned so much wisdom from my teachers during
my years here, life lessons that I'll take until the end of the time. Words
cannot express the utmost gratitude and thanks I have towards all my
teachers, friends and family, for they are the ones in both small and large
ways, inspired me into who I am today. In saying this, I say thank you, to
you, me and everyone else, and if I don’t see you, good afternoon, good
evening, and good night!
- Connor Magatogia, Deputy Head Student

6 MĀTOU - 2020

New Staff

Ms Claudia Teague joined the Social
Sciences department this year as
a beginning teacher and has been
delighted to find the Edgewater
community to be a kind and
welcoming place. She has loved
getting to know the students and
looks forward to getting involved in
more aspects of the school in the
future.

Ms Rachel McCarten joined us Miss Paige Kingston joined us in the Art Department
from Marcellin College as Deputy after spending her practicum here as a student
Principal. Ms McCarten’s key area of teacher last year. She is a proud mentor teacher of
responsibility is Student Welfare and 9E and member of Ngata whānau.
Pathways. She is passionate about the connection
between wellbeing and learning. Ms McCarten has Mr Paul Jun joined the Science Department as part
enjoyed teaching a Year 9 English class this year. of the Teach First Programme. He teaches Chemistry
and in the Edge Innovation Programme. Mr Jun has
Ms Angela McCamish joined us from Howick College enjoyed being involved with coaching the Junior
as Assistant Principal. Ms McCamish’s key area of Volleyball Boys Team.
responsibility is Curriculum. She is a data wizz and
knows exactly how many credits each student has
got at each stage of the year! Ms McCamish loves
innovative curriculum, she enjoys teaching in the
Edge Innovation Programme and History.

Farewell

This year is bittersweet as we farewell three Kia hora te marino
long-standing members of staff who have served Kia whakapapa pounamu te moana
Edgewater College loyally for many years. Mr Peter, Kia tere te karōhirōhi i mua i tōu huarahi
Mrs Blake and Mr Williams, we are very sad to see
you go but wish each of you the very best for your May the calm be widespread
retirement. We are extremely grateful for all you May the ocean glisten as greenstone
have done for Edgewater College, especially for the May the shimmer of light ever dance across your
many students whose lives you have impacted. pathway.

Farewell of Mr Ivan Peter

I have very fond memories of my stay at Edgewater College when I started in 1991
as TIC Drama. The population of the school was about 1100 students the Drama
Department was housed in what is presently the Music Department. I did 3
productions a year – 1 at Year 10 ( Form 4 ) in those days, 1 at Year 12 ( Form 6 ) and
the major school production. The best memory of those days was the production
of “Godspell“ which featured both staff and students – huge cast which drew
on some of the finest talent on display at Edgewater at the time!! I also taught

MĀTOU - 2020 7

English and did my film study in the lecture theatre of the students and the sense of belonging you
which was upstairs in S Block. I used to feed the feel on entering the school – just pure joy!! After
film through the film reel and project it on a screen being Assistant HOD for a few years I was eventually
in the front of the room – those were the days!! – it promoted to HOD English early in 2000. I loved it – I
was like being in the movie, for sure!! I directed was able to share my passion and love for my subject
the school productions for about 15 years and then with so many talented teachers who I know gave so
moved full time into the English Department when much in the classroom. I am very much “a classroom
the school roll became smaller. person” and I have always told my students that
I would not mind if they forget everything about
I began teaching English in B1 and have remained Shakespeare, film studies, short stories or poetry that
there ever since – it has become like a second home. I have taught them but all I ask of them is that they
Besides being a full time teacher, I was also a dean become good citizens, be humble, be lavish in their
for many years and have some truly wonderful praise and selfish in their criticism.
memories of the 7th form ( Year 13 ) camp. I can even If I have been successful in that, then I have done my
remember breaking the flying fox at the camp on duty.
the first day – well was much younger then!!! and I
was barred from all activities thereafter. I eventually To Edgewater, there is no other!!!
became the Dean’s Co-ordinator ( like a minor Kia Kaha, Kia Maia, Kia Manawanui
HOD ) and had the pleasure of working with some Be Strong, Be Brave, Be Steadfast.
amazing thinkers. What has always struck me about
Edgewater and has continued is the supportive and - Ivan Peter
caring environment, the warmth and friendliness

Farewell of Mr Mike Williams

Tēna koutou, tēna koutou, tēna koutou katoa. Ngā
mihi nui ki a koutou.

“Nāku te rourou, nōu te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi” - With
your basket and my basket, the people flourish.

Edgewater College has been very good to me for the
last 21 years. I had no idea that when I came here
from Rosehill College that I would stay so long in
one place!

The staff, the students, the Board of Trustees and the present these real life accounts of how young
school community have taught me so much that people have learnt how to overcome trouble and to
now, I find it hard to say goodbye. Edgewater College settle into better ways of relating to others, making
has allowed me to explore my passion for social new habits, creating new reputations, developing
justice and my desire to learn how young people leadership skills and growing as a person with a
grow and change and become mature people. deeper understanding of life.

The years have been filled with students' stories of Based on the true stories that students have
courage and overcoming and personal fulfilment told me, I have written a book, 3 book chapters,
and I feel honoured to have helped them to write many newspaper reports and many academic
new chapters in the story of their lives, chapters filled journal articles on a wide range of issues related to
with themes of hope and possibility and purpose. overcoming adversity and trouble and reintegrating
I have gathered countless stories of bullying and back into the school community when things have
conflict and have had many opportunities both
throughout NZ and many overseas countries to

8 MĀTOU - 2020

gone wrong. I have been supported in this by my So, Edgewater College has taught me so much
colleague and co-author, Dr John Winslade from the and has influenced my life and with the support
California State University, San Bernardino who was of the Board of Trustees and the Principal, it took
ironically a counsellor at Edgewater years before me. me to places such as Nova Scotia, Japan, America,
Australia and the Faroe Islands. I will be forever
In 2012, I was nominated for the NZ Herald New in debt to the generosity of students in sharing
Zealander of the Year following an extensive stories and pain and difficulties and the subsequent
investigation into bullying in schools. Since 2004, I recovery of solutions. I sincerely thank the school
have been using a unique approach to eliminating leadership for releasing me to share these stories in
bullying from a classroom by creating a team many different forums.
of students, including the two most active
perpetrators of bullying who very quickly rise to the A school is a microcosm of society in my view.
challenge of turning things around recreating a Edgewater College should first be thought as a
classroom characterised by respectful and caring Community of Care and over the last few months,
relationships. The Under Cover Anti Bullying Team the uncertainty that this pandemic has ushered in
Approach has been used in over 200 documented has provided school staff with the opportunity to
cases with 100% success rates in many countries reassure students that a school must be primarily
of the world. I have used these ways of relating a safe place in which to learn. With great staff
to conduct many meetings or mediations, where who really care about the future of our students,
students have solved student’s problems in their Edgewater College has been transformational in so
own ways. Trusting young people to do the right many lives.
thing and helping them to do that has shown
me that adults and teachers can often impede - Mike Williams
that process by resorting to automatic disciplinary
actions when things go wrong.

Farewell of Mrs Beverly Blake

I arrived at Edgewater College in January 1985 as a But what has
Maths teacher. Little did I realize that it would be made my journey
thirty-five years later when I would leave apart from truly memorable is
taking maternity leave to have and care for my own the students that
children. I have taught or
mentored over the
I started as a teacher of Mathematics and then years. We do not
had the opportunity to take on the role as Dean of know how much or
Rimu House when Edgewater College had vertical how little impact
forms. This meant I oversaw the pastoral care for we have on shaping
one quarter of the school. I am not sure whether the our students lives
competition to win the house cup was but I hope that my
between the students or the Deans. Rimu won most impact has been
years I was Dean. positive. I do know
A few years ago, the school changed to horizontal that I have learnt
forms as it is now, so my role changed to taking care a lot from my students and have especially enjoyed
of a year level from Year 9 through to Year 12. their sense of fun and pleasure in working with each
other and their teacher.
And there I stayed until three years ago when
Kenneth Leung retired, and I took over the role of I leave with a sense of sadness because Edgewater
Head of Mathematics and Statistics. College students are great to work with and I will
miss that.
It has been a great journey working with different
groups of people, my fellow Deans and then the - Beverly Blake
amazing Maths Department of today.

MĀTOU - 2020 9

Covid-19

You only need to look at Mātou 2019 to see Stressful. Difficult. Isolating. Terrible. Just some of
Edgewater College as the busy, bustling, active the many words to describe COVID-19’s impact on
school community it is. Trips, competitions, festivals, Edgewater College, and the wider world in general.
productions, showcases celebrating the diversity and With many cancellations to trips and festivals,
activity of our school. After such a packed year, where productions and showcases, 2020 may as well
to from there? Up, of course. have been quite an underwhelming year, in terms
of school activity. But above all else, Edgewater
However, 2020 didn’t work out that way. COVID-19 College’s diversity and culture continued to strive,
made its global outreach within the first few all through lockdown and Zoom calls, right through
months of this year, and we definitely weren’t to in-person class sessions, and differing timetables.
immune to it. When an Alert Level Four lockdown As terrible as this year has been with disruptions
came in place nationwide on March 25th, life at from COVID-19, Edgewater has reaped the rewards
Edgewater stopped. We had all become familiar with sowed in online learning, learner agency, and a push
the lingo associated with the pandemic, such as for a more digital-focused way of learning. 2020
“unprecedented”, “bubble”, and dare I say it, “Zoom has inadvertently shown the path to a newer, more
meeting code”? innovative way of learning and education, quite
suiting for a growing, innovative school.
We all got through it, but all to differing extents. Staff
and students returned to the school under Alert After a year like this, where to from here?
Level Two in late May, with a focus on the mental
and emotional wellbeing of everyone getting used Up, of course. All things shall pass. We will all get
to this new normal. I had the pleasure of creating through this together, and COVID-19 will soon be a
“EC PSA” videos about the Alert Level Two rules and thing of the past.
guidelines with other student leaders, right before
we headed for Level One. For almost 103 days, it Here’s to better times ahead - for Edgewater, our
was a slow but sure assurance that COVID-19 was community, and beyond. Getting through these
no longer a worry on many students’ minds, but tough times we shall see the importance of our
rather the schoolwork and dramas that came along school values - Curiosity, Care, and Courage.
with it. While things were relatively normal (strong
emphasis on relatively), we could all agree that Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui.
COVID-19 is a tricky virus, indeed. Auckland went into
Level Three lockdown in mid-August, once again - Willie Leiataua
bringing Edgewater to a stop.

10 MĀTOU - 2020

Academic
& Service

MĀTOU - 2020 11

Senior Prizegiving

First in Subject

Level 1 Design and Aiko Kaseda Level 2 Social Studies George Gray

Visual Communication Level 3 Te Reo Māori George Gray

Level 1 Health Aisha Aiyub Level 2 Physics Hillary Miguel

Level 1 Music Performance Christian Pritchard Level 2 Industry Pathways Kathleen Tatlonghari

Level 1 Physical Education Evelina McArthur Level 2 Business Kevin Li

Level 1 History Hannah King & Accounting

Level 1 Japanese Hannah King Level 2 Photography Latu Fatai

Level 1 Music Hannah King Level 2 Painting Leah White-Taumaunu

Level 1 Business & Hehea Tuimoala Level 2 World Leki Vao

Accounting Cultural Studies

Level 1 Design and Jocelyn Liu Level 2 English for Micaela Castillo Soto

Visual Communication Speakers of Other Languages

Level 1 Internal Science Lasela Fonua Level 2 Chemistry Mikhael Real

Level 1 Mathematics Leo Milne Level 2 Printmaking Samantha Cameron

Level 1 Internal Lucas Galyer Level 2 Japanese Sonali Patel

Mathematics Level 2 Mathematics Sonali Patel

Level 1 Digital Technologies Manuel Ebdane with Statistics

Level 1 Visual Art Mistique Korosso Level 3 Outdoor Education Ali Alzergawi

Level 1 Geography Nazella Hossaini Level 3 Early Childhood Ameleah Leone

Level 1 Science Nazella Hossaini Education

Level 1 Te Reo Māori Ocean Wihongi - Level 3 Social Studies Aye Khing Maung

Mahanga Level 3 Drama Connor Magatogia

Level 1 Drama Rebecca Parkinson Level 3 Media Studies Connor Magatogia

Level 1 Construction Romeo Oldehaver Level 3 Music Connor Magatogia

Technology Level 3 Design and Eric Wong

Level 1 Hospitality Tahryn Toki Visual Communication

Level 1 World William Pomana Level 3 Geography Eric Wong

Cultural Studies Level 3 Employment Skills Graeme Macmillan

Level 1 English Yalda Ahmadi Level 3 Design Jade Thompson-Tavai

Level 2 French Yalda Ahmadi Level 3 Japanese Jade Thompson-Tavai

Level 2 Music Performance Amos Anae Level 3 Painting Jade Thompson-Tavai

Level 2 Hospitality Andrea Borja Level 3 Industry Pathways Jan Posadas

Level 2 Drama Anita Avito Level 3 Construction Jason Olo

Level 2 Digital Anne Mescallado Technology

Technologies Level 3 Biology Kashvi Dayal

Level 2 Construction Aukuso Mauga Esekia Level 3 Health Kashvi Dayal

Technology Level 3 History Kashvi Dayal

Level 2 Design and Aukuso Mauga Esekia Level 3 Digital Malachi Natana

Visual Communication Technologies

Level 2 Health Carlos Chee Level 3 English for Michael Rogando Jr

Level 2 Physical Education Carlos Chee Speakers of Other Languages

Level 2 Biology Charis Prins Level 3 Printmaking Michael Rogando Jr

Level 2 English Charis Prins Level 3 Business Studies Michelle Prasad

Level 2 Mathematics Charis Prins Level 3 English Michelle Prasad

with Calculus Level 3 Photography Sia Santaweesuk

Level 2 Music Charis Prins Level 3 Physical Education Tj Salu

Level 3 Chemistry Charis Prins Level 3 Dance Tuli Dalley

Level 2 Geography Charlize Iosefa-Pulman Level 3 Calculus Yasmina Daskapan

Level 2 History Charlize Iosefa-Pulman Level 3 Physics Yasmina Daskapan

Level 2 Design Chateau Lavatai Level 3 Statistics & Yasmina Daskapan

Level 2 Te Reo Māori Elijah Rapana Modelling

Level 2 Outdoor Education George Gray

12 MĀTOU - 2020

Level 1 Prizes

Certificate of Excellence

Japanese Aisha Aiyub Hospitality Jessica Mcdonald-
Science Aisha Aiyub
ESOL Alakoka Pohahau Shergold
English Internal Angela Cheng
Mathematics Angela Cheng Design & Visual Julius Korey
Visual Art Angela Cheng
Physical Education Anton Ameke Communication
Health Charlie Coleman
Science Charlie Coleman Science Julius Korey
English Internal Emily Tofilau
Mathematics Evelina McArthur World Cultural Studies Karyn Lamipeti
Drama Faith Caffery
Performance Music Francis Manusina Construction Technology Lemoto Pohahau
English Hannah King
Music Hannah King Physical Education Lemoto Pohahau
History Haydn Connell
Physical Education Haydn Connell Visual Art Lily McIlroy
English Hehea Tuimoala
History Hehea Tuimoala Internal Mathematics Manuel Ebdane
Music Hehea Tuimoala
Science Hehea Tuimoala Science Skills Manuel Ebdane

English Internal Mercy Niusila

Digital Technologies Muskaan Janif

Te Reo Māori Ocean Wihongi -

Mahanga

Internal Mathematics Sara Fa'alava

Business Studies Ummi Khalfey

& Accounting

Geography Yalda Ahmadi

Mathematics Yalda Ahmadi

Level 2 Prizes

Certificate of Excellence

Mathematics with Calculus Caleb Wong Social Studies Latham Lee
Health Leah White-Taumaunu
Physics Caleb Wong Employment Skills Leon Peauafi
Programme
Business and Accounting Casey Foster Printmaking Letina Nansen
Physical Education Levi Mareela
English Charlize Iosefa-Pulman Performance Music Max Ameke
Physics Mikhael Real
Industry Pathways Chelsea Kinghorn Photography Norry Tanga
Design Reupena Salafai
World Cultural Studies Chelsea Kinghorn Chemistry Samantha Cameron
English Samantha Cameron
Drama Christal Silva Carvalho Japanese Shayan Pomare
Mathematics with Sililo Vaihu
Painting Christal Silva Carvalho Statistics
History Sonali Patel
Outdoor Education Elijah Rapana English Mision Mayau
French Fae Espinosa
Te Reo Māori Elijah Rapana

English George Gray

Biology Hillary Miguel

Hospitality Joshua 'Uiha

Geography Kathleen Tatlonghari

Mathematics with Kathleen Tatlonghari

Statistics

Construction Technology Kevin Li

Design & Visual Kevin Li

Communication

Music Latham Lee

MĀTOU - 2020 13

Level 3 Prizes

Certificate of Excellence

Physics Charis Prins Industry Pathways Ma'asi Ta'akimoeaka
Business Studies Charlize Iosefa-Pulman
Health Aye Khing Maung Drama Meliame Tatafu
Japanese Aye Khing Maung
Photography Meliame Tatafu Early Childhood Education Michelle Prasad
Chemistry Davinia Sivapragas
Painting Denzel Toka Statistics Michelle Prasad
Mathematics with Eric Wong
Calculus Biology Nabeel Ahmad
Design & Visual Jaevan Aii
Communication English Nabeel Ahmad
ESOL Jan Posadas
Printmaking Jason Olo Construction Technology Niu-Alinghi Peni
Statistics Kashvi Dayal
Design Keaton Stephens Physical Education Niu-Alinghi Peni

History Preniven Naicker

Social Studies Preniven Naicker

Music Sini Pa'o-Salu

Geography Stephanie Ibarra

Outdoor Education Stephanie Ibarra

Media Studies Willy Leiataua

Te Reo Māori George Gray

ESOL Yoshiki Sato

Special Prizes

A & M Pattinson Trophy - DUX 2020 Lions Clubs Community Award -
Yasmina Daskapan Outstanding service to the community -
Proxime Accessit - Proxime Accessit Michelle Prasad
Kashvi Dayal Nic Vanderpeet Award -
Board of Trustees Student Representative - Perseverance and diligence in History -
Board of Trustees Student Trustee 2020-2021 - TJ Salu
Samuel Lama Paul and Marie Udall Award -
The Tristan Bolton Memorial Cup - Service to Fellow Students -
Caring, Courage and Curiosity - Meliame Tatafu
Willy Leiataua Benson Armer Trophy -
Pakuranga Rotary Club Award - Service to Library -
Community spirit and leadership - Jade Thompson-Tavai
Connor Magatogia Mackereth Cup for excellence in Senior languages:
WH Fleming Award - Jade Thompson-Tavai
Contribution to the Arts within the school - Dave Woulfe Award -
Keaton Stephens Service to the College -
International Student Award - Daniel Pearson
Highest achieving international student - The Tahawai Medal - Total All Round Student -
Jein Waker Sini Pa'o Salu
Alex McDonald Award - Head Student Award -
Highest Achieving Māori student - Using GRIT to persevere and achieve success -
Lavinia Marsh Preniven Naicker
Dr Jon Morrow Award - Year 11 Dean's Award -
Highest Achieving Pasifika Student - Emily Tofilau
Sini Pa'o-Salu Year 12 Dean's Award -
Nga Wawata o Nga Tupuna Award - Kathleen Tatlonghari
Outstanding contribution to Māori language Year 13 Dean's Award -
and culture - Meliame Tatafu
Sapphire Warbrick

14 MĀTOU - 2020

Excellence Evening 2020

Certificate Endorsements Jade Thompson-Tavai Excellence in Level 1
with Excellence Excellence L2 Physical Education
Althea Ebdane Ken Shing Wong Khushbu Wahab
Excellence L1 Excellence L2 Excellence in Level 2 Painting
Hillary Miguel Kashvi Dayal De La Haye Raikadroka
Excellence L1 Excellence L2 Excellence in Level 2 Painting
Riha Mudaliar Connor Magatogia Preniven Naicker
Excellence L1 Excellence L2 Excellence in Level 2 History
Charis Prins Yasmina Daskapan Davinia Sivapragas
Excellence L1 Excellence L2 and L3 Excellence in Level 2 Mathematics
Caleb Wong Roshana Davids with Statistics
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence Christina Bang
Penelope Iosefa-Pulman Abdul Ahmadi Excellence in Level 3 Drama
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence Macauley Cunningham
Mikhael Real Suhaliyah Khalfey Excellence in Level 3 English
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence Pare Ferguson
Robert Kolevski Tulin Sun Excellence in Level 3 Music
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence
George Gray Bronson Smallman
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence
Sapphire Warbrick Briana Valgre
Excellence L1 L3 Excellence
Carlos Chee

MĀTOU - 2020 15

Junior Prizegiving 2019

Subject - 9ENGL Poumale-Tahafa, Mata-Michelle 9R Foster, Hunter 9I
Top Prize in Year 9 English - Leone, Certificate in Year 9W Science - Top in 9I Community Action -
Juliette 9E Short, Mason 9W Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Year 9C English - Certificate in Global Issues -
Chandulal-Dee, Kate 9C Subject - 9PEDU Stephens, Teryn 9I
Certificate in Year 9E English - Top Prize in Year 9 Physical Education - Top in 9I Global Issues -
Bodenstein, Jaydon 9E Pa'o-Salu, Saluselo 9E Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Year 9G English - Kaur Certificate in Year 9C Physical Certificate in Future Studies -
Singh, Jusleen 9G Education - Masiniua, Cas 9C Foster, Hunter 9I
Certificate in Year 9R English - Fiu, Certificate in Year 9E Physical Top in 9I Future Studies -
Menna 9R Education - Chen, Gavin 9E Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Year 9W English - Certificate in Year 9G Physical
Naicker, Vishailen 9W Education - Havili, Vili 9G Subject - 9MUSC
Certificate in Year 9R Physical Top Prize in Year 9 Music -
Subject - 9MATH Education - Grewe, Robert 9R Blanckenberg, Aiden 9G
Top Prize in Year 9 Mathematics - Certificate in Year 9W Physical Certificate in Year 9C Music -
Bodenstein, Jaydon 9E Education - Lauhingoa, Siope 9W Chandulal-Dee, Kate 9C
Certificate in Year 9C Mathematics - Certificate in Year 9I Physical Education Certificate in Year 9E Music -
Masiniua, Cas 9C - Moodie, Anthony 9I Austria, Carl 9E
Certificate in Year 9E Mathematics - Certificate in Year 9G Music -
Wallace, Matthew 9E Subject - 9HLTE Blanckenberg, Aiden 9G
Certificate in Year 9G Mathematics - Top Prize in Year 9 Health - Certificate in Year 9R Music -
Kaur Singh, Jusleen 9G Pahulu, Pupuke 9R Fiu, Menna 9R
Certificate in Year 9R Mathematics - Certificate in Year 9C Health - Certificate in Year 9W Music -
Poumale-Tahafa, Mata-Michelle 9R Masiniua, Cas 9C Short, Mason 9W
Certificate in Year 9W Mathematics - Certificate in Year 9E Health - Certificate in Year 9I Music -
Toung - INTL, Dominhgo 9W Leone, Juliette 9E Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Year 9G Health -
Subject - 9SOS Felix, Abigail 9G Subject - 9JAPA
Top Prize in Year 9 Social Studies - Certificate in Year 9R Health - Top Prize in Year 9 Japanese -
Naicker, Vishailen 9W Poumale-Tahafa, Mata-Michelle 9R Bodenstein, Jaydon 9E
Certificate in Year 9C Social Studies - Certificate in Year 9W Health - Certificate in Year 9 Japanese -
Chandulal-Dee, Kate 9C Naicker, Vishailen 9W Kaur Singh, Jusleen 9G
Certificate in Year 9E Social Studies - Certificate in Year 9 Japanese -
Leone, Juliette 9E Subject - 9TECH Tatlonghari, Klein 9E
Certificate in Year 9G Social Studies - Top Prize in Year 9 Technology - Certificate in Year 9 Japanese -
Havili, Vili 9G Salthouse, Emma 9I Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Year 9R Social Studies - Certificate in Year 9C Technology -
Pahulu, Pupuke 9R Ahamed, Nabiha 9C Subject - 9ARTV
Certificate in Year 9W Social Studies - Certificate in Year 9E Technology - Top Prize in Year 9 Art - Cruz, Adrian 9E
Toung - INTL, Dominhgo 9W Soane-Rakete, Davarni 9E Certificate in Year 9C Art -
Certificate in Year 9G Technology - Vilikoka, Jay-Don 9C
Subject - 9SCIE Felix, Abigail 9G Certificate in Year 9E Art -
Top Prize in Year 9 Science - Certificate in Year 9R Technology - Cruz, Adrian 9E
Bodenstein, Jaydon 9E Pahulu, Pupuke 9R Certificate in Year 9G Art -
Certificate in Year 9C Science - Certificate in Year 9W Technology - Blanckenberg, Aiden 9G
Flaus, Justin 9C Naicker, Vishailen 9W Certificate in Year 9R Art -
Certificate in Year 9E Science - Certificate in Year 9I Technology - Poumale-Tahafa, Mata-Michelle 9R
Larsen, Phoenix 9E Stephens, Teryn 9I Certificate in Year 9W Art -
Certificate in Year 9G Science - Munokoa, Rangi 9W
Felix, Abigail 9G Subject: 9I Innovation Certificate in Year 9I Art -
Certificate in Year 9R Science - Top Prize in the Edge Innovation Halasitama, Celestial 9I
Programme - Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Creative Design -
Stephens, Teryn 9I
Top in 9I Creative Design -
Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Problem Solving -
Foster, Hunter 9I
Top in 9I Problem Solving -
Salthouse, Emma 9I
Certificate in Community Action -

16 MĀTOU - 2020

Subject - 9MAOR Certificate in Year 10G Science - Subject - 10DRAM
Top Prize in Year 9 Te Reo Māori - Singh, Calvin 10G Top Prize in Year 10 Drama -
Rapana, Isaiah 9E Certificate in Year 10R Science - Cahilig, Jorbys 10G
Certificate in Year 981 Te Reo Māori - Cheng, Angela 10R Certificate in Year 10 Drama -
Rubena, Ngahoa 9G Hopa, Phoenix 10E
Certificate in Year 982 Te Reo Māori - Subject - 10PEDU
Stephens, Teryn 9I Top Prize in Year 10 Physical Education Subject - 10ARTV
Certiticate in Year 983 Te Reo Māori - - Muhammadi, Liaquat 10E Top Prize in Year 10 Art -
Hamilton, Wisdom 9E Certificate in Year 10C Physical Cheng, Angela 10R
Education - Williams, Bayden 10C Certificate in Year 10 Art -
Subject - 9ESOL Certificate in Year 10T Physical Education Cahilig, Jorbys 10G
Top Prize in Year 9 ESOL - - Muhammadi, Sadaqat 10T
Toung - INTL, Dominhgo 9W Certificate in Year 10E Physical Subject - 10TECP
Education - Tuimoala, Hehea 10E Top Prize in Technology - Product
Certificate in Year 10G Physical Development -
Subject - 10ENGL Education - Lasike, Isaiah 10G Oldehaver, Romeo 10R
Top Prize in Year 10 English - Certificate in Year 10R Physical Certificate in Technology - Product
Espinosa, Fae 10E Education - Samaseia, Caleb 10R Development -
Certificate in Year 10C English - Muhammadi, Liaquat 10E
Fa'alava, Sara 10C Subject - 10MUSC
Certificate in Year 10T English - Top Prize in Year 10 Music - Subject - 10TECF
Lamipeti, Karyn 10T King, Hannah 10E Top Prize in Technology Year 10 Food -
Certificate in Year 10E English - Certificate in Year 10 Music - Coleman, Charlie 10E
Tuimoala, Hehea 10E Espinosa, Fae 10E Certificate in Technology Year 10 Food
Certificate in Year 10G English - Certificate in Year 10 Music - - Muhammadi, Liaquat 10E
Cahilig, Jorbys 10G Tofilau, Emily 10G
Certificate in Year 10R English - Subject - 10TECD
Wahab, Noorya 10R Subject - 10MAOR Top Prize in Technology Year 10
Top Prize in Year 10 Te Reo Māori - Digital - Milne, Leo 10E
Subject - 10MATH Jones-Amai, Jade 10E Certificate in Technology Year 10
Top Prize in Year 10 Mathematics - Certificate in Year 10 Te Reo Māori Digital - Vlad, Horia 10T
Cheng, Angela 10R Toki, Tahryn 10E
Certificate in Year 10C Mathematics - Wihongi - Mahanga, Ocean 10E Subject - 10TEDD
Fa'alava, Sara 10C Top Prize in Technology Year 10
Certificate in Year 10T Mathematics - Subject - 10JBFL Deisgn & Visual -
Vlad, Horia 10T Year 10 Junior Business Financial Janif, Muskaan 10T
Certificate in Year 10E Mathematics - Literacy First Equal - Certificate in Technology Year 10
Tuimoala, Hehea 10E Ahmadi, Yalda 10E Design & Visual -
Certificate in Year 10G Mathematics - Year 10 Junior Business Financial Milne, Leo 10E
Paongo, Vili 10G Literacy First Equal -
Certificate in Year 10R Mathematics - Ali, Yasameen 10E Top students in Year 9
Sun - INTL, Nate 10R Prize for Top Student in 9C -
Subject - 10JAPA Chandulal-Dee, Kate 9C
Subject - 10SOS Top Prize in Year 10 Japanese - King, Prize for Top Student in 9E -
Top Prize in Year 10 Social Studies - Hannah 10E Bodenstein, Jaydon 9E
King, Hannah 10E Certificate in Year 10 Japanese - Prize for Top Student in 9G -
Certificate in Year 10C Social Studies - Tuimoala, Hehea 10E Kaur Singh, Jusleen 9G
Lindsay, Jordan 10C Prize for Top Student in 9R -
Certificate in Year 10T Social Studies - Subject - 10HLTG Pahulu, Pupuke 9R
Rawiri, Tristan 10T Top Prize in Year 10 Health - Girls - Prize for Top Student in 9W -
Certificate in Year 10E Social Studies - Korosso, Mistique 10E Toung - INTL, Dominhgo 9W
Hossaini, Nazella 10E Certificate in Year 10 Health - Girls Prize for Top Student in 9I -
Certificate in Year 10G Social Studies - - McArthur, Evelina 10E Salthouse, Emma 9I
Cahilig, Jorbys 10G
Certificate in Year 10R Social Studies - Subject - 10HLTB Top students in Year 10
Wahab, Noorya 10R Top Prize in Year 10 Health - Boys Prize for Top Student in 10C -
- Muhammadi, Liaquat 10E Fa'alava, Sara 10C
Subject - 10SCIE Certificate in Year 10 Health - Boys Prize for Top Student in 10T -
Top Prize in Year 10 Science - - Rawiri, Tristan 10T Liu, Jocelyn 10T
King, Hannah 10E Prize for Top Student in 10G -
Certificate in Year 10C Science - Subject - 10ESOL Cahilig, Jorbys 10G
Lindsay, Jordan 10C Top Prize in Year 10 ESOL - Prize for Top Student in 10R -
Certificate in Year 10T Science - Tofilau, Emily 10G Palatoni, Rallene 10R
Vlad, Horia 10T Certificate in Year 10 ESOL - Prize for Top Student in 10E -
Certificate in Year 10E Science - Sun - INTL, Nate 10R King, Hannah 10E
Tuimoala, Hehea 10E

MĀTOU - 2020 17

PSSP and Peer Support

The Peer Sexuality Support Programme (PSSP)
is a school based programme which is delivered
in secondary schools throughout the Auckland
region and is about helping students to be
able to make informed decisions about their
own sexual health. PSSP aims to formalise
already existing networks through training
students to work in a support and referral role
with their peers. The training involves a five day
experiential, residential hui in which students
explore their own attitudes and values in
relation to sexuality and sexual health as well as
those of others. They do this through workshop
presentations on a range of topics where the
students are provided with accurate information
and access to resources which they can then use
to assist others in their communities when they
return to school. The delivery of PSSP in school
communities is youth lead and run. Therefore,
the youth leaders within schools work alongside
school staff to identify and design health
promotions or initiatives to meet their specific
school community needs.

“PSSP does an incredible job of being there
for our fellow students, referring them to the
right people and giving everyone a wholesome
experience. I enjoyed being part of the team
and learning all about how to help a student in
need!” - Zoe Felix

Whaia te ara o Tainui - strive to follow the way of Peer Support leaders, it started off well. Due to a
Tainui; follow the path of those who came before us. change in the timetable, Peer Support sessions took
place fortnightly on Wednesday mentor sessions.
Secondary education can be a primary anxiety for Despite the time constraint, the Peer Support
many Year 9s entering into their first year at college. Leaders still worked on getting the job done.

The Peer Support programme involved a selected Unfortunately, the Peer Support programme came
group of Year 12 and Year 13 students aiming to work to an abrupt end when the COVID-19 outbreak in
with Year 9 mentor groups with lessons centring New Zealand escalated and prompted schools to
around our school, expectations, friendship, and close in late March. A resurgence in the programme
overall lessons to keep with them on their journey at in mid-June saw Peer Support leaders come
Edgewater. together as a reassurance to Year 9 students that
there is a lot of potential for a good time here, in the
Late January saw the team assembled for training community, and within the cohort.
and last-minute preparations for the first day of
Term One. To the delight of the Dean, and many - Mr Williams, Guidance Counsellor

18 MĀTOU - 2020

EOTC

This year the year 12 and 13 Outdoor Ed students
have still managed to do some amazing trips and
activities despite the restrictions. In term one we
made the most of the summer and the amazing
weather with trips based around the ocean. Year
12 Outdoor Ed had a three day kayaking trip where
they kayaked to Motuihe and camped two nights on
the island. They also managed to kayak to Waiheke,
summit Browns Island and see some Tuatara.

The Year 13 students had a two night trip to Raglan
to experience a range of activities available in the
region. They had a great time learning to surf and
caught some great waves. They also relaxed with
some yoga and learnt to paddleboard. A bush walk
to a stunning waterfall finished the trip nicely.

Since then the classes have been tramping,
mountain biking, rock climbing and snowboarding.
Not a bad year really considering all of the limitations
we’ve had and a great group of students to take
away on trips.

- Ms Dawson, HOD PE

MĀTOU - 2020 19

Book Week 2020
at Edgewater College

Book Week was celebrated at Edgewater College
throughout Week Two of Term Three. The week
kicked off with ‘The Case of the Curious Clockwork
Cleaner’, where students had to study the evidence
and clues left around the library to find out who
killed Conan Drum, the library cleaner. Next up
we launched our annual ‘design an EC Bookmark’
competition and received some stunning entries.
On the Wednesday we had our ‘Page to Screen’
Kahoot quiz, based on books turned into movies
and TV shows. Thursday saw our first ever library
‘Escape Room’ activity, which was hugely popular.
Those attending had to complete three tasks to
gain the three keys to escape the library and win a
prize. Finally, we finished off the week with a Cosplay
/ Costume Day, where students and staff came
dressed up as their favourite characters, with prizes
for the best dressed students and staff members.
Thanks to everyone for taking part and making Book
Week 2020 a massive success, and congratulations
to all of our winners!
– Mrs Mucalo

20 MĀTOU - 2020

Enviro Club

This year the Enviro Club got off to a great start
enthusiastically entering a moth plant competition,
setting up pest trapping along the boundary of the
school and with great plans of creating a harakeke
garden. Unfortunately the competition was
cancelled, the pest traps had to be un-set (could be
rather gruesome to return to after lockdown) and
the harakeke couldn’t be divided as the time to do
this is April, and we were all in our bubbles.

Nonetheless, they have fundraised and planted nine
more fruit trees in the orchard, attended a Howick
Youth Council Enviro Cluster meeting and enjoyed
time in the beautiful gardens at Edgewater College.
The biggest achievement of the year however has
been the organisation and setting up of school-wide
recycling which will be up and running in term four
of this year. An exceptional project, with a lot of hard
work from the students, and one that will serve the
EC community for a long time.
Thanks so much for the input from all the students
involved this year.

- Ms Dawson, Teacher in Charge

MITTA-Manukau Institute
of Technology

Background: the government funds a range of really works, and thought
secondary-tertiary programmes with the aim to everyone else knew a lot,
improve the achievement of NCEA Level 2 & 3, and to but it turns out everyone
improve transition from school to further education, was in the same boat as
training, or work. One example is the Trades me.
Academy at MIT.
Throughout the year,
A refection from a current student: my class got along well together which lead us to
It was options time at school when we select our become the most successful academy class for this
subject choices for the following year. I knew I year. I am learning a lot on the course and have
wanted to work with cars. Our school does not offer been lucky enough to be offered an apprenticeship
automotive but does offer an option to choose a in automotive which I have now enrolled in at MIT,
course to study at MIT Trade Academy. This is one starting in 2021. I have met new friends who are also
day a week. My parents were supportive of this leaving school for further study. MIT has led me to
choice as they know my passion for cars. do what I am passionate about and has sealed my
future endeavours.
When I first started at MIT I was a little nervous
because I didn’t know too much about how a car - Mahurangi Haare

MĀTOU - 2020 21

Young Enterprise Scheme

The Young Enterprise Scheme is sponsored by product and getting it out to market. There are two
the Lion Foundation, and it gives students the internals available worth a total of 15 credits and
opportunity to create and run their own practical there’s also a YES exam but apart from that, the rest
business - in real life! Each YES team is usually made of the work is just all the jobs of running a regular
up of 4-7 students each having a specific role. These business. (Which is a lot!) With one exception,
include CEO, Communications, Sales and Marketing, we don’t have to pay tax/ GST. Instead we have to
Production and Finance. donate 25% of our profit to YES, so money goes back
into the programme to allow it to continue.
At the start of the year we hit the ground running.
We attended Timata Kickstart Day at Ellerslie This year Michelle Prasad, the CEO of Kiwi Essence,
Convention Centre which is a compulsory day for was selected as one of the top 80 students out of
all YES students to go and be introduced to the the over 4000 that are part of YES to participate
course. The day is composed of meet and greets, in the Entrepreneurs in Action. Entrepreneurs in
idea generating workshops and ‘speed coaching’ Action is about experiencing business at a fast pace,
sessions with local business people. We also met our competing in business challenges, and meeting
School Coordinator - Sian McMillian. other YES students with a passion for enterprise.

One of the main events in the YES year is Dragons Michelle says “Entrepreneurs in Action is an
Den. Each team creates a five minute pitch which incredible experience where we get to meet people
can include a slideshow, videos, graphics etc. The who are like minded and in general people from
pitch is marked by judges against a very specific all walks of life.” Entrepreneurs in Action taught
mark scheme. Michelle to work at a fast pace and especially learn
to do team work with people you have met just a
We are required to submit an Annual Review. This is few hours ago. She says “EIA weekend is intense but
a big deal and has to include an executive summary, YES and the corporate mentors will keep feeding
a financial report and a company review. The you, hydrated and always on the go.” Michelle
Regional Winners based on this markscheme head was pleased to receive a scholarship from Massey
to the National Awards in Wellington where there University's Business School after the EIA weekend.
are heaps of prizes up for grabs!

Through creating a YES business, you also create
a support network and meet loads of new people.
Each team has to have a business mentor. Mr
Broderick is our lovely teacher/supervisor/mentor
and also other awesome people out in the
community.

After Dragons Den, the real focus is on finishing our

22 MĀTOU - 2020

Student Volunteer Army

“I love what volunteering gives us - a chance to learn, well. It has given me the strength to do more and
to grow, to connect and to help others.” made me think about what I can do to help the
community, not just in NZ but also people around
I was introduced to the Student Volunteer Army the world. I have also used the Summary of Service
through a friend which led me to know about the in my CV in multiple job interviews, which got me
SVA service award. I signed up for it knowing that my first job.
Edgewater College isn't a registered school for
SVA service award. A few weeks later Ms McCarten Just seeing how many hours I’ve spent volunteering,
approached me and said that EC will be a registered particularly at my school and local community, I feel
school for SVA service award and I was so happy. very happy that I am able to give back to the school
Honestly I am so glad that I signed up for the SVA and community that has helped me to grow as an
service award because not only it has helped me to individual and to embrace my culture & language.
grow as an individual but the joy volunteering brings
to me and the people around me can not be de- Not just being a part of SVA but initially when you
scribed in words. volunteer in general, you get to see how much you
have positively impacted people in the community.
The SVA service award has helped me to volunteer
more as it has given me a goal to work towards as - Michelle Prasad

The Spirit of Adventure:
Experience of a Lifetime

The Spirit of Adventure scholarship was one of the By Charlie Coleman
biggest and best opportunities I have ever been
given. The ten days I spent sailing on a ship around
the Hauraki Gulf were truly life changing. We
learned all about sailing and the environmental
impact we have on the world all while having
fun, seeing the sights and, of course, having an
adventure.

On the trip we got to sail, swim, paddle to islands,
play games and experience all aspects of life at
sea. We saw beautiful islands and incredible sea
creatures – almost every day we saw a new animal.
We were even able to run the boat by ourselves for a
day. After the sun went down and the weather got
bad we still learned and played games with all of the
amazing people on the ship.

The leadership and team building skills that
I learned on the voyage will stay with me forever.
I also made life-long friends that I will never forget.
I’ll keep my time on the Spirit close to me forever
and I am forever grateful for the scholarship that got
me there.

MĀTOU - 2020 23

Culture

24 MĀTOU - 2020

Kapahaka

The Kapahaka roopu this year was formed at the beginning of the year under the strong leadership of those
who had been in the group in 2019, and was led masterfully and skillfully by Whaea Elsie and Whaea Ngawai.
The Kapahaka roopu performed beautifully at the EC Cultural Evening and at events such as the Excellence
Evening and Open Evening. Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 the Kapahaka roopu were unable to perform at
Polyfest this year, and missed many other events that would normally take place over the duration of a school
year.

Closing a chapter in life -
Tupulaga Samoa 2020

By Sini Pa’o Salu, (Edgewater College Taupou 2020) Samoan language
and one aspect of the
The year 2020 for Tupulaga Samoa brought nothing Samoan way of life.
but a lot of laughs, knowledge, sweat, body aches
and tears. Due to Covid-19, we could not perform Within our group we also had non-samoan students
at Polyfest which was, yes, very sad for the group who found an interest to participate and through
especially for our Year 13s as it was their last chance their participation they were also able to learn and
to perform in the Samoan Group at Polyfest. Apart strengthen their understanding about the Samoan
from this year’s disappointment, we were really culture and life.
blessed to have our tutor - Vaea Uili Pa’o-Salu - along
with our guitar players and supporters - Maybe we weren’t able to perform on the Polyfest
Fono, Kaisara Pa’o-Salu, Siki Ah-shew and Dominica stage but we were able to perform on the EC stage
Ah-Lam in front of our most loyal and loving supporters - our
family and friends.
It was a real blessing to perform together with
Tupulaga This year's Samoan group had its ups and downs
Samoa this but one thing I know for sure was that everyday
year. Tupulaga we learnt something new whether it was about
Samoa 2020 the Samoan culture or about each other, we were
was more than learning. As we learnt something new at every
just dancing practice we were strengthening our relationship
and singing together with all our group members. We walked in
in Samoan. as strangers and walked out as family!
It was about
helping us A quote that was taught to us, the Tupulaga Samoa
diasporas learn for 2020:
and absorb ONE MIND, ONE HEART, ONE SPIRIT
Samoan Vaea Uili Pa’o-Salu (Tutor)
traditions,

MĀTOU - 2020 25

Tongan Group 2020

In my final year I participated in the Tongan
group alongside the rest of the Edgewater
students and it has been one of the best
experiences of my five years here at Edgewater
College. I am truly grateful to have worked with
the punake (tutor) and with the male leader
Christian to motivate and encourage the group.
With a busy start to the year we still managed to
get there, even though we didn’t get to perform
at Polyfest due to Covid-19, we still managed to
perform for the Edgewater College cultural night which turned out to be successful.

I would like to give a big thank you to everyone in the Tongan group and to the teacher in charge Mr.
Maupese for all the hard work and the time that he's taken out to care for us and that has helped out
with the success of the group and for setting everyone straight when they needed it, without you all this
wouldn’t have been possible.

- Meliame Tatafu

Cook Islands Group

I danced and tutored alongside Claren Nookura for return and
this year's Cook Island group and it has been one of help tutor.
the best cultural feelings I have experienced while
being at Edgewater College. In addition
I am truly grateful to have worked alongside Claren; to that,
a close friend who is just as passionate as I am about Claren and
our culture. I would
like to give
With a busy start to the year and very limited our sincere
time, the huge turn out for signups were quite thank
unexpected. Each member of the group made you to the Rubena family for their outstanding
practices a priority and always gave it their best - costumes, drumming, singing and MC as well as
with a tremendous improvement in comparison Aunty Narki from another family who helped with
from our first ever practice to our very last. The the growth of each performers dance ability and her
number of juniors who were eager to express the help with the choice of song and actions. Both have
Cook Island culture through performance was shown us the utmost love and have catered a lot of
emotional because many of us were unable to do so their time and energy into helping us.
as juniors - there were also a large proportion who
weren’t originally of the Cook Island culture and that Lastly, a thank you to our teacher in charge, Mrs
made the experience memorable! Scott, who helped with the success of the group in
each way that she could.
By the end of the dance at cultural night, the group
celebrated with pride and as a leader I shed a tear for A note to the Cook Islands group of 2020:
the emotional feelings of having danced alongside Te neke nei o koutou arataki ki roto I to maua
the best group I could’ve asked for. I hope the orahanga hou, noho mai koutou ma te hau e te
growth of the Cook Island culture continues to be rekareka. Hapii atu I ta maua I hapii atu kia koutou -
expressed and recognised across all year levels of EC ko to koutou mataora te mea puapinga.
in the coming years as it was this year and reach the
point of performing at future Polyfest - we’d love to - Stephanie Ibarra

26 MĀTOU - 2020

Cultural Evening

MĀTOU - 2020 27

28 MĀTOU - 2020

Japanese Group (Tounagisa)

What a year. For the first time, Tounagisa made the Every member of Tounagisa worked incredibly hard
jump from Culture night team, to Polyfest team! this year, and performed amazingly. They might
Not a single member had ever performed on the not have made it to Polyfest this year, but their
Polyfest stage and they were nervous! The team commitment and strength is commendable, and
undertook two Japanese Yosakoi dances, one of their one and only show - outstanding! Well done
which was choreographed by a yosakoi team from Tounagisa!
Japan. Yosakoi is a physically demanding dance,
and early practices had to be cut short to save the - Ms Minahan, Teacher in Charge
team’s aching thighs! But they persevered, and grew
stronger and stronger, as the dance came together.
So many awesome staff came together to help ready
them for the big time - with hand made costumes
and an awesome vinyl print flag that student leader
Eric Wong was going to fly.

But, like so much this year, Covid-19 had other plans.
Polyfest was cancelled. Like many teams this year,
the Tounagisa were gutted.

Luckily, Edgewater College’s annual Culture Night
could go ahead and Tounagisa were able to debut
their amazing costumes and physically demanding
set.

Film Club

Covid-19 certainly has changed a lot this year.

Edgewater College’s Film Club’s big production - The 48
Hour Furious Filmmaking Competition was yet another
Covid casualty, but that didn’t stop the Film Club.

Over the lockdown, some staff and students got
involved in a film and TV week on instagram, producing
homemade movie posters and short films.

The film club then tackled “Life in a Day...at EC”
a documentary based on Ridley Scott and Kevin
MacDonald’s “Life in a Day”. At the time of the Magazine
print, the club were furiously filming moments in an
Edgewater Day.

By the time you are reading this, the club hopes to have
a documentary that captures EC as of 2020 - a pretty
remarkable year! And, hope that next year, they’ll be
back to furious filmmaking without restrictions!

- Ms Minahan, Teacher in Charge

MĀTOU - 2020 29

Band Camp 2020 Music Events

The beginning of 2020 saw the Edgewater College Stand Up Stand Out
Jazz Band head off for band camp at Mangawhai
Heads Christian Camp. It was 3 days of music This year we were ready to participate in the
making, a chance to build new friendships and Auckland wide Music Festival known as Stand Up
even time to sneak to the beach for a swim in the Stand Out. This is a competition which showcases
surf. This year the band consisted of 23 members the best musicians and dancers from the Auckland
ranging from Year 9 -13. It is always rewarding to area. This year we saw a group of Year 12-13 students
see our Year 13 students take further leadership create a band and rehearse weekly in preparation.
roles in the band and to have the opportunity to For most students of the band, it was their first time
foster and mentor the new members. Once again, in an actual band. We also had original compositions
the band is directed by the one and only, Mr Arthur. written and ready to perform. We had vocal
We are truly grateful to have his level of expertise ensembles that had also rehearsed and were ready
and experience at the helm. He brings passion, to hit the scene. Sadly, like all other competitions
enthusiasm and we are blessed to have him as part this year, SUSO was cancelled due to the Pandemic.
of our music family. Luckily we managed to get in a school performance
opportunity for these groups so all was not wasted.
It was a hot 3 days away but that’s why we camp
near a beach. The students rehearsed for hours a
day, sometimes even taking extra sectionals just to
make sure they were giving Mr Arthur their best.
We are proud of how far the band has come this
year. Sadly, due to the pandemic, the band have
had little opportunities to perform but we look
forward to being able to share the talents of our
young people at this year’s Senior Prizegiving.

30 MĀTOU - 2020

Big SIng Festival/
KBB Festival

It was also sad to see two of the most popular
festivals for school groups cancelled this year. The
Big Sing Festival is always a highlight for our school
choir, ‘EC Voices’. Like all other festivals, we were
madly rehearsing for June, but sadly Covid-19 got in
the way and there was no way this festival was able
to go ahead.

KBB Festival is a celebration and competition for
school bands. Every year our Jazz Band participates
in this Festival. It was also a sad day for our students
when we got the news that this was also cancelled.

Music Tour 2020

This year saw the department growing again in size.
The choir reached 70 members and numerous small
ensembles began to emerge. Tour was going to be
epic. We had planned on heading to the Western
Bay of Plenty, staying at Ohope Beach. All schools
and retirement centres were booked. We were
amping up for the epic races down the Rotorua
Luge. It was going to be our biggest yet. Mr Holmes
worked tirelessly at making sure the tour was going
to happen but due to our second lockdown, there
was no way we were going to be able to make it
happen. We now have to wait for next year. Sadly
so many year 13 students who had joined the choir
this year never got to experience this wonderful
opportunity.

MĀTOU - 2020 31

Artwork 2020

32 MĀTOU - 2020

MĀTOU - 2020 33

Sport

34 MĀTOU - 2020

Badminton

Badminton is one of the most
exciting, social sports that we have
ever played. It doesn’t seem physically
demanding, but one always works
up a sweat. Badminton is a sport that
anyone can participate in, and enjoy.
It is a way that we can bond with our
teammates, and make new friends.
Through our training, we developed
new skills alongside our peers in a
super supportive environment, and it
was great to test out these new skills
by playing in competitions against
other schools.

We have really enjoyed being part of
our individual teams, and belonging to
the EC Badminton group.

- Camryn Caceres, Jack Lee and
Nacheca Wessels.

Chess

Chess Club ran throughout Terms One to Three
(Covid level permitting), meeting in the school library
during Thursday lunch times. We had a group of
keen regulars who came along to work on upskilling
their chess skills against each other. We look forward
to hopefully being able to compete next year once
again in our school Whānau Chess competition, and
in the inter school competitions. Many thanks to
Mr Irving and Mr Huang for helping to mentor our
chess players.

– Mrs Mucalo

MĀTOU - 2020 35

Coach’s notes: A view on
Junior Boys’ Basketball 2020

3.15pm – The season games were great as we had the chance
Gotta get changed and get into the gym. to have all games as home games. We did wonderful
3.20pm – with a 5 – 0 winning streak. It was wonderful to
Did I wash my hands? Do I have to wash my hands? watch the boys take on every team with confidence
How many laps am I supposed to do again? and ease.
3.25pm –
5 laps…EASY! Need to do these weird stretches now… With appreciation, we wish to also acknowledge
still don’t know why I need to, I’ve got skills! our parents who came out to watch the games
3.30pm – alongside the students from our school for their
“RIGHT, everyone on the baseline…” support over the weekly games.
We also wish to thank Mr Iverson Chee (Class of 2019)
This was the thinking pattern that the Junior Boys’ who came and co-coached the boys in the trainings
Basketball team have embedded as part of their as well.
team expectations as they participate in their first
year of High School Basketball. This season saw Covid-19 unfortunately stole the rest of the season
a good number of junior students to trial for the from us, but we do know that the Junior team for
basketball team. 2021 will now need to meet the benchmark that has
been set by this wonderful team of boys.
The thought was that we would need to walk the
skills through, but no need – these young men were
willing and more than able to jump shot 3 pointers,
hook shots, and even a 360° lay-up.

Team members:

Year 10 Year 9

Vili Havili – Forward (Captain) Ryan Blinman – Point Guard

Saluselo Pa’o-Salu – Centre/Forward AJ Pepe – Shooting Guard

Tonga Siliva – Forward Samuel Scanlan – Forward

Dayton Tonga – Centre/Forward Haapi Te Tautuhi – Shooting guard

Hunter Te Ratana – Guard utility

Maiava Leitu Samasei’a, TIC, Co-coach 2020

36 MĀTOU - 2020

Basketball Senior Boys

The basketball season is one that is always
anticipated. For the players, it is something to work
towards and to look forward to.

This year, our players were individually strong, but
needed to develop teamwork, and that is what we
did. With the help of Mr Broderick, Maiava Samasei’a
and Iverson Chee, we practiced personalised roles
and ball control. On the court, our strong defence
kept opposing scores low and controlled the tempo
of the game. This placed us at an advantage and
enabled us to win most of our games. Memorable
plays from individuals were seen at each match
and it’s always pleasing to see the players develop
ownership of the sport.

Though interrupted, we were fortunate to have
played the games we did, and we did our best to
play safely and passionately.

-Mr Huang

MĀTOU - 2020 37

As with all the other codes, Boys' The moral of this season (other
the start of the Football Football than being resilient in the face
competition was put on of an unexpected pandemic!) is
hold until it was safe for that if you sign up to be part of a
school sport to resume. So, team, then you have to commit
on Saturday 20th June we to it. For the boys who turned up
finally kicked off and for regularly, we want to thank you
the 14 boys that turned up, for your effort and commitment
we were rewarded with a and we hope that you enjoyed
3-0 win over Sacred Heart the season.
International. However, the

very next week we didn’t We would also like to thank the
have quite the same turnout Head Coach Daniel and the
and we ended up losing by Training Coach Ali for all their
default to Glendowie 3rd work this season. We wish all
XI. This was really the start of a very up and down the Year 13 players all the best for the future and
season for us. Although our team were mainly we look forward to seeing the rest of the team and
made up of Juniors, we was still very competitive. hopefully lots of new recruits next year.
We won 4-1 against Auckland Grammar C2 and

even though we had to default against St Kents (as Ms Lui-Webster
we couldn’t field a full team) in the friendly game, Game Day Manager
we beat them!

38 MĀTOU - 2020

Senior Boys' and Girls'
Tag 2020

On the 11th March the Senior Boys Tag Team and Senior Girls
Tag Team took part in the Eastern Zone Tag Tournament at Ti
Rakau Park. The teams were made up of a mix of year 9 to year 13
students.

The Senior Boys Tag Team was well led by their captain fantastic,
Lolo Tuionetoa. They played in pool B against Botany Downs B,
Tamaki and Massey.

The Senior Girls Tag Team was led by the organised and helpful
Meliame Tatafu. They played in Pool A against Howick, Pakuranga
and Botany Downs A.

Even though the results were not always in our favour, we were able to be competitive enough on the day.
The teams had five games to play which was a tough ask and resulted in some very tired bodies at the end
the tournament. The players showed great team spirit and were supportive and encouraging to each other
resulting in an enjoyable day.

We were fortunate to play in this final tournament before the first lockdown in March. All the other Auckland
tournaments in different areas were cancelled because of Covid 19.
- Ms Benjamin, Director of Sport

MĀTOU - 2020 39

Netball

Junior Netball

This year our Junior Netball Team had a total of twelve
players: Angela Afamasaga, Angelene Booysen,
Jenavive Darlington, Dejenae Josephs (Vice Captain),
Jusleen Kaur Singh, Avalon Keu Kohunui, Kulia Mapili,
Jorja Panapa, Ala Pauli (Captain), Kaydence Salima,
Emma Salthouse and Noema Siaosi.

Each player with passion and commitment to playing
Netball who represented our Edgewater values
throughout this challenging season, even when
Covid-19 prevented practices and competition games,
the team's spirit has not been dampened.

As coach of the Junior Team again this year I would
like to say thank you to Ms Barrow for her continued
support and to the players in our Junior Team, you are
an amazing, resilient, enthusiastic bunch and l am
extremely proud to have been your coach.

Curiosity | Manawa reka Courage | Māia Care |
Manaakitanga

- Mrs S Wolfgram
Coach

Edgewater Blue We kicked the season off early this year with a great
turn out at trials. The girls were all very committed
to coming to training and games and we started the
season off strong.

In game number one we played McAuley Blue and had
an amazing win 35-8. Player of the match went to Mere
Kunaika for her ability to be a support to everyone on
the court during the game.

In game number two we played McAuley silver and
had another amazing win 38-11. Kerstein Salima
winning player of the match for her speed and agility
on court.

It is unfortunate that we only got two games played
for the season but the commitment shown by the
girls and the skill level in the team gives me a lot of
confidence for a very successful 2021 season.

- Ms Archery, Coach

40 MĀTOU - 2020

Edgewater Green

We started the season really well
this year with a fantastic group of
girls really keen to play well as a
team. They were a great group,
really encouraging of each other
and enthusiastic at both trainings
and the games. The team improved
in the few games we managed to
play this year and were great role
models for our school, encouraging
each other and showing great
sportsmanship to the other teams.
The girls were really disappointed
that the season finished so quickly
but enjoyed continuing their
trainings until the last week of term.

- Ms Dawson, Coach

MĀTOU - 2020 41

Orienteering Table Tennis

Our Orienteering team participated in events at local What a year!
Eastern Schools. It was at a different venue every
week. As much as table tennis hasn’t thrived
Sadly because of COVID, the orienteering team during this year, I know that we
could only participate in four out of the six events for would’ve had an amazing experience.
the year. Nevertheless, the team had a great time, We would’ve started with our B, C
and it was always good to try to beat personal bests. and D grade teams competing at
At the end of most events, an ice cream truck would the inter school competition at Saint
be there and many of the members would reward Kentigern's, whilst our Premiere grade
themselves for their good effort. The team would team would compete at Gillies Ave
encourage and help other members to try their Table Tennis Stadium, then finishing
hardest and it was always a positive environment. off the year with our annual pizza
Although it was after a hectic day at school the party. Table Tennis has been an
team all were super energised for the event this was important and entertaining sport
clearly shown by the attendance and punctuality. during my five years I've played, from
- Michelle Prasad and Charis Prins the friends I now know, the skills
I've learnt and the memories I've
42 MĀTOU - 2020 made along the way. I’d like to thank
Miss Benjamin and Mrs Scott for
their support throughout the years
with transporting, organising and
supporting all the table tennis players.

- Connor Magatogia

1st XV Rugby

2020. The year of the EC 1st XV
comeback. I guess you can figure out
that wasn’t the case with the current
situation the world is in. Although we
faced a few major setbacks, you could
say that we did make a comeback
this year.

In the past 3 years we struggled to
have enough numbers to field a
team. This year we struggled as a
coaching team to decided who was
going to take one for the team and
break the news to the boys who will
not be on the team sheet for the
upcoming game in the weekend.

This year we grew as a squad and
built our team culture back up. This
showed in the way that the team
carried themselves on and off the
field and the buzz during trainings.
We got off to a good start this season
and had some close games against
Alfriston College and Rosehill College.
The boys played well and were
leading throughout the two games,
but we just couldn’t close out the
game and lost it in the last minutes.
Regardless of the results, this was
a really good indicator that we had
an awesome group with amazing
potential.

One of key strengths of this
year’s 1st XV would be the level of
commitment that the boys showed
from the start of the season, right
through until the day we had to
break the news to them that the
season would be cancelled due to the
COVID-19 setbacks. Let’s just say that
didn’t go down too well. The boys
have done themselves proud and
have lifted the bar for the upcoming
players joining the 1st XV team to
carry on the culture.

- Mr Maupese - Coach

MĀTOU - 2020 43

Under 15 Boys' Rugby

Remember who you are! Who are we?! EC! Who are Coach John Ikitule drilled them well. Coach
we?! EC! Ma’upese also checked their abilities and also made
sure the boys met the expectations. And they did!
Sweat, smelly socks, mud, strapping, tiger balm, cold
rain, screaming, wind! That’s what our season was The season saw the U15 Rugby Boys complete the
going to confront every Saturday morning at 9.15am. season without a loss – 5:0. This motivated the boys
They came in all sizes – short, tall, big, small, but 24 to really make the effort to train hard, train right,
boys were committed to make the effort this year for train well. It also motivated them to do what is right,
the U15 Boys’ Rugby. so making sure schoolwork is done so they can walk
out onto the field focussed.
The first game, I remember arriving at school
opening the gates and seeing the boys make their But through all great things, we also will need to
ritual walk to the gym to get ready for the game. face challenges, and Covid-19 was our burden to
Some were sombre and focussed, others were bear this year. 2020 will not be remembered for the
loud and laughing; but ALL were making sure that burdens of a global pandemic, but how we were
each of them were ready to walk out on the field to gaining success whilst dealing with this global
represent Edgewater College. They embedded the pandemic.
importance of manaakitanga | care for each other.
Thank you to our coaches – Mr Leti Ma`upese,
The trainings were tough. They had no let up on and Mr John Ikitule for taking time to making us
what needed to happen. amazing!
“Drop a ball?! You go down for 10 press ups!”
“You don’t pass?! You go down for 10 press ups!” Who are we? We’re EC! Whaia te Ara o Tainui – Strive
“You’re talking while I’m talking?! You go down for to Follow the Way of Tainui
10 press ups!”

Team members:

Year 9 Year 10 Year 11

Frank Fale Robert Grewe (Captain) Anton Ameke

Joshua Grewe Vili Havili David Fatai

Victor Ikitule Sef Lama `Eusepio Finau

Feagai La`ei Joelai Masiniua Johnson Hagaitoa

Vake Tonga Jona-Dana Tailo Sage Nolan

Brooklyn Taufa Gavin Panapa

Paepaega Tofilau Vili Paongo

Vao Tupou Lino Quinsell

Vaitohi Veatufunga Kamipeli Tuipulotu

Maiava Leitu Samasei’a, Team Manager

44 MĀTOU - 2020

Senior boys’ Volleyball

This year was my first time coaching the Senior
Boys’ Volleyball Team alongside Mr Samasei’a. We
haven’t been able to get a team together for the
past two years due to the boys having other school
commitments. This year’s group was a special group
and I was surprised with how fast the boys’ gelled
together and how eager they were to learn. We had
some raw talent in this group, and we had other
schools shook when our boys got onto the court.
Now I’m not just saying that because I’m their coach,
but boy did we have some jaw dropping moments
this season.

Our team was made up of boys who play in the
Open B Basketball Team, the 1st XV Rugby Team,
and the 1st XI Football Team. You could almost say it
was a dream team! The buzz in the team was special
and we had a very calm and casual approach to
every game. The amount of times I’d be standing on
the side of the court thinking of some inspirational
words to get the boys fired up and then get into the
group huddle only for them to say, “lets have fun, we
got this…EC on three”. It leaves you speechless, and I
find myself walking off the court laughing because
I was the one whose nervous, not them. Players like
Max Ameke, who was our captain, just knew when
to switch off and have fun, but also knew when to

bring the noise. When I say noise, I’m talking about
his thunder cracking spikes when he hits the ball. Of
course, we had other key players like Mision Mayau,
who was an absolute ninja and would put his body
on the line to save the ball and utilised his football
skills to bring another element of play into the game.

I could go on and mention all the boys in the squad
and tell you the awesome things they bought into
the team, but the standout thing for me would be
the cool, calm, collected nature of the team. This
made coaching a joyful experience and a walk in
the park. The singing and cheering before and after
the games, the banter amongst the boys and the
unorthodox plays were something most schools
we played in our region could not comprehend. At
the end of the day our boys just wanted to play, and
in our first game against the volleyball giants from
down the road (St. Kents…ahem) we played and out
played them, really well. It will be sad to see the year
13 boys leave us this year, but we have reignited an
awesome team where we can showcase our raw
talents and build on for the coming years.

- Mr Maupese, Coach

MĀTOU - 2020 45

CWohmamnauuni&ty

46 MĀTOU - 2020

Whanau Leaders

Cooper

First of all I would just like to say a big thank you
to all the students and teachers who participated
in sports day, E-sports and the whānau challenge
week which took place during lock down. Due to
Covid-19 we didn’t get to do the other whānau
activities but I am still proud of the students and
teachers from Cooper Whānau who joined in and
gave everything a try. I would also like to give a
massive thanks to our other Cooper Whānau leaders,
Connor Magatogia and Tala Salu, for all the effort
and support in encouraging our younger ones to
give everything a go and most importantly to have
fun. Lastly, this wouldn’t have been possible without
the contribution of Ms Minahan and the rest of the
teachers who are a part of the Cooper Whānau.
Thank you to everyone again who was involved in
the Cooper Whānau for 2020!! For the future leaders
I wish you all the best and conquer all the challenges
that are up ahead for you and the Cooper Whānau.

Cooper Whānau Leader - Ma'asi Ta'akimoeaka

Hillary

Hillary Whānau leader here! It has been a great
journey repping this whānau ever since I came to
Edgewater College and leading the whānau in my
very last year of college! This year has been a great
year for Hillary Whānau. We have always been on the
top from year to year and the key to our success is
PARTICIPATION!! I really appreciate everyone in my
whānau who took part in the whānau competitions
such as the sports day, E-Sports, even the whānau
challenge week that took place during the
lockdown, and many more.

I would like to give a special thank you to all the staff
members of Hillary Whānau for their hard work for
our whānau, all the senior students for making sure
everyone was a part of the whānau, and the juniors
for going outside of their comfort zone throughout
this year. I hope everyone in Hillary Whānau had a
great year and I hope Hillary will continue to be the
greatest whānau for the upcoming years.

No words could describe how thankful and grateful I
am to be in Hillary Whānau.

Hillary Whānau leader - Bella Wakerkwa

MĀTOU - 2020 47

Ngata

Having the honour to be the whānau leader for Ngata in 2020 was a unique experience I am truly grateful
for. Despite the rocky year we faced, we came together as one team and hustled hard to get where we got.
Regardless of the outcome I am immensely proud and grateful for Ngata. Thank you to everyone who helped
the team during sports day and all the online activities due to covid-19, it wouldn't have been possible without
Willy Leitaua, Paula Katoa, Christian Tuasagi, Eric Wong, Amol Maharaj, Sini Pa’o-Salu and many more people,
your efforts did not go unnoticed and you are all appreciated. Of course none of our success would be possible
without Ms Lui-Webster. Once again thank you for this amazing experience. Good luck to all the future leaders
and the Ngata team.

Ngata Whānau Leader - Faiza Khan

Sheppard

This year has been an amazing year for our Sheppard
Whānau! We definitely showed that we were tired of
losing throughout the previous years and were in it
to win it this year, seeing that our whānau took out
first place for our school’s Sports Day, the whānau
tag competition, E-Sports and also the whānau
challenge week that took place during the Covid-19
lockdown. Our students showed a lot of dedication and
determination to help us rise to the top with the amount
of participation and support that was shown at each
and every whānau competition. I would also like to show
praise to the juniors this year who showed an immense
amount of support by always being willing to participate
in the competitions, even if it was out of their comfort
zones.

I’d like to say a massive thank you to our previous
whānau leader Carlos Florian for doing the most for
our whānau before he departed from school and thank
you to the other current student leaders of Sheppard
Whānau. To Mr Broderick and the rest of the teachers
who were a part of the Sheppard Whānau, we wouldn’t
have been able to be the mighty Sheppard Soldiers
without you! Thanks again to everyone who was a part of
the Sheppard Whānau this year, here’s to hoping that we
get that W at the end of the year. To the future leaders of
Sheppard, good luck and lead our whānau with pride!

Sheppard Whānau Leader - Claren Nookura

48 MĀTOU - 2020