On the first day of Term 1, the new 2026 Year 9 students attended Orientation Day. They were shown how things work at Pakūranga College and were given instructions so they could be prepared for their classes.
Two weeks later, Swimming Sports were held. The Girls’ Swimming Sports were first, and Team Kauri emerged victorious. The next half of the event was the Boys’ Swimming Sports, and Team Mataī came in first. Everyone had loads of fun, cheering for individuals and their own Whānau. The event was filled with loads of laughter, joy, and eagerness, especially from the competitors.
The following two weeks gave students time to apply for sports and academic clubs. Some examples would be the Chinese Cultural Group, Maths, Science and Sports Councils, badminton, table tennis, and basketball teams, and plenty of others.
Also, during that first month, Year 9s went on Peer Support Camp. Most of the kids who went to camp enjoyed it. They were arranged into cabin and activity groups. Some of the activities were hydro slides, kayaking, and raft building. Additionally, there was a heated pool and a cold pool. There were also night activities such as the campfire, a general knowledge quiz, and a fashion show. The camp helped students build their confidence, make new friendships and create unforgettable memories. Additionally, the camp helps students take this opportunity to spend quality time with friends, new or old, building strong bonds and connections as well as gaining experience from being a part of the camp.
A week after camp, the Head Students talked to us about their journey at the school, including their involvement in events and joining different clubs at assembly. They used some inspiring words to motivate students to participate in big events, try out some clubs, and not to be intimidated or scared by Seniors or things keeping you away from joining clubs or participating in events. Some students took the words very seriously and joined some clubs, hoping to gain some experience from them.
The next week featured Athletics Day, and students participated in various sports like discus, shotput, long jump, high jump, and sprints. Some used the day to connect with people they were not familiar with and make new friends. Overall, there was a high energy that surrounded all the events from each group of different Whānau. We felt the spirit and fiery energy each Whānau was giving off, as well as enjoying plenty of good sportsmanship moments. Additionally, the energy included a fierce presence of each Whānau during the chant-off, which Kauri won. Even though Pōhutukawa reigned supreme and were role models in showing the best spirit, it was a day that clearly showed that every Whānau contributed to Athletics Day.
Week 9 held the main event of mufti day to help support Kiwis with rare diseases. On this day, students were informed to wear school-appropriate, colourful shirts and give a gold coin donation to the teachers in their Whānau class on the day.
Those are just the first few extraordinary events that happened this year, with many more to come.
Jonathan Huang – Year 9
