Winter Sports & Cultural Colours Assembly – 16 October 2024 

Kia ora, School. Please be seated. 

I’d like to invite Deputy Head Prefect Jett Varcoe forward to deliver today’s reading. 

Today’s reading comes from Joshua, Chapter 1, Verse 7. 

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 

This is the word of the Lord (Thanks be to God) 

Rectors Comments:   

Thank you, Jett. Today is our Winter Sports and Cultural Colours Assembly to recognise those students who have excelled in their winter sports codes and performing arts activities this year. Achieving colours at Lindisfarne College is a great honour, and it acknowledges the huge commitment that these young men have made to their various pursuits. 

Colours not only recognises high achievement in each code. Certainly, each of the young men being presented with their Colours today is an elite athlete or excels in his cultural activity, but part of the requirement is that the student has also excelled in other areas. In training and practice, by turning up on time, every time. He must also demonstrate a positive attitude towards practice and play. Colours also acknowledges service, leadership, and outstanding citizenship within a team, so it’s not easy to qualify for colours.  

Colours recognises senior students. Juniors may be excelling in their activities and this may be at the senior level, but one of the criteria is that as a senior student, you are a positive example and inspiration to those students in Yrs 7-10 who are following in your footsteps. 

I’ve enjoyed watching lots of you play your sports and perform in your cultural activities this year. We are not the largest school in the region, but we box well above our weight and achieve excellent results every year. That’s why we’ve won the premier 1st XI hockey title this year and it’s why the Hawke’s Bay Young Musician of the Year has been a Lindisfarne student for three of the past four years. So well done to all of you, whether you are receiving colours today or not. Many of those boys receiving colours would acknowledge that their individual success has been enhanced by the tough competition and support provided by their mates who play and perform alongside them.  

It's also a chance to thank our coaches and tutors at the end of the year for the massive commitment they have made to you all. I know you all appreciate the many hours that they have given to supporting you in your various codes this year. And of course we acknowledge those staff who play a key role in making all this happen – Director of Sport Mr Harper, Sports Co-ordinator Ms Akeripa, Dr Kristensen our Director of Performing Arts and Head of Music Mr Selfe. And then there all the other coaches, managers and tutors who spend countless hours organising and administering sport and the arts each and every day, so we must feel grateful to all our staff, for all they give in the cultural and sporting cornerstones. Please put your hands together for our staff. 

We’ve got a large number of people to recognise today. Please listen carefully and respectfully to the citations that are read out about each student. Recognise and applaud appropriately their achievements.  

Today begins a series of formal assemblies that recognise excellence. We have the academic awards assembly in two weeks that recognises 2nds and 3rds in class and our Year 13 academic colours, and our final full school assembly when we farewell our graduating Year 13s and give out the premier awards for 2024. So I do expect you to be disciplined and respectful throughout all these events. In line with our College Values and the Lindisfarne Way, I expect you to be self-managing. Take responsibility for your own personal discipline and be a mature, good role model for those around you. 

It’s now my pleasure to hand on to Mr Howlett who, in Dr Kristensen’s absence, will read out this year’s Cultural Colours. 

Mr Howlett:  Cultural Colour’s are awarded to students that display a level of excellence and are committed role models within their area of cultural expertise.  

Can the following boys please come forward: Edward Harvey, Ryan Palmer, Josef Oosthuizen, Fergus Morunga, Isaac Chou. 

Edward Harvey Music Colours 

Edward is a skilful euphonium player who plays essential musical lines by himself in the symphonic band and jazz band.  Eddie is also a confident soloist who performed excellently this year in concerts. As band captain of the symphonic band, Eddie role models expectations and sets a high standard of performance and behaviour. He is reliable and dedicated to music at the College.  

Ryan Palmer Music Colours 

Ryan has displayed excellent skills on the drums which he showed in his performing arts concert solo. He was the only drummer in this year’s musical production of Grease and he is the key kit drummer in the symphonic and jazz bands. Ryan has supported the percussion section of the training band throughout the year, helping year 7/8 students develop their skills in a relaxed and supportive manner.  He is reliable and dedicated to music and the college.  

Josef Oosthuizen Music Colours As a member of the Lindisfarne College Piano Trio, Josef won the HB Chamber Music Competition. Josef plays first violin in the HB Youth Orchestra; he is also a confident soloist. As part of his NCEA portfolio, he composed excellent compositions that were performed by our jazz band. In addition to being a violinist, Josef plays the saxophone and is a key member of the symphonic band and jazz band.  

Isaac Chou Music Colours 

Year 11 student Isaac Chou was again this year a member of the NZ Symphony Youth Orchestra which is made up of the best young classical musicians from around New Zealand. This year Isaac won the HB Young Musician of the Year performing a 20-minute recital from memory and greatly impressing the adjudicator. Isaac is a fantastic percussionist in the symphonic band playing xylophone,  

Can the following boys please come forward: Te Awarangi Puketapu-Pene, and Hunter Andrews. 

Te Awarangi Puketapu-Pene Kapa Haka Colours 

Te Awarangi is an excellent performer who is naturally talented in kapa haka. His passion for kapa haka is evident on stage and he has shown consistent commitment to practices and events. Te Awarangi was the leader of the haka for Cuthbert this year and given he is only year 11, he will no doubt continue to grow as leader and performer. Kia manawa tītī tonu koe e hika! Well done, Te Awarangi.  

Hunter Andrew Kapa Haka Colours Hunter has made an outstanding contribution to kapa haka over the years and has displayed great leadership. He is one of the ‘tuakana’ or senior leaders within the group, bringing to practises his experiences of kapa haka and guiding others in a meaningful manner. Hunter has grown into a great leader not only for kapa haka but for Aidan house and the first XV rugby team. Ka nui te mihi ki a koe. Well done, Hunter.  

Can the following boys please come forward: Fergus Morunga, Sam Young, Perez Malo, Te A Kruger-Taylor, Taniora Puketapu-Kingi.  

DOUBLE COLOURS 

Fergus Morunga - Music and Public Speaking 

Fergus is an exceptional bagpiper, regularly performing solos at events across Hawke’s Bay. His dedication to the pipe band is evident in his proactive approach, helping organise events and introducing new initiatives to improve the band. Fergus has also co-led the Year 7-8 band program, supporting younger pipers throughout the year. As Head Boy, Fergus is a motivational leader, excelling in public speaking, having placed 1st in this year's Impromptu Speech Contest. He has been a driving force in the Performing Arts Department, leading with positivity and commitment as Student Liaison and Stage Director in the school production. Fergus's artistic talents shine in everything he undertakes, and we wish him the best for his upcoming film premiere. 

Sam Young - Music and Technical Colours 

Sam is an outstanding musician and a key leader in the clarinet section of the symphonic band, where he performed a solo in this year’s repertoire. He also plays tenor and baritone saxophone in the jazz band, demonstrating his versatility and high level of skill. A reliable performer at Chapels and Assemblies, Sam is a role model for younger musicians. In addition, Sam is awarded Colours for his exceptional contribution to sound and lighting at Lindisfarne College. His technical expertise and dedication have been instrumental in ensuring the success of school productions and events. Sam’s professionalism, attention to detail, and willingness to mentor others have made a lasting impact. 

Perez Malo - Kapa Haka and Drama

Perez is a naturally gifted performer who has shown remarkable commitment to kapa haka. His technique in haka, waiata a ringa, and his singing abilities are outstanding, earning him a role as one of the tuakana/senior leaders. A quick learner, Perez always gives his best. This year, he has also shone on stage as a singer, actor, and dancer, particularly in his role as Roger in Grease, where he inspired others with his talents and dedication. His performances in the Gospel band, the Performing Arts concert, the Trio of Talents, and the Iona Charity Concert have left a lasting impression. Perez exemplifies how courage and effort can lead to great achievements. 

Te Ā Kruger-Taylor - Kapa Haka and Drama

Te Ā is an outstanding kapa haka leader who has upheld this key role with passion and expertise for several years. His leadership and performance skills are highly commendable, earning him the respect of all kapa haka members, as well as Durham House and the 1st XV rugby team, whom he has led in haka competitions. Te Ā is also a talented performer, excelling as a singer, dancer, and actor. His memorable portrayal of Danny in Grease, along with standout performances in numerous productions, reflects his dedication and skill. A generous leader and role model, Te Ā inspires those around him.  

Can the following boys please come forward: Taniora Puketapu-Kingi, Chris Proctor and Philip Larkin. 

Taniora Puketapu-Kingi Kapa Haka and Drama

 Taniora is an exceptional performer and dedicated leader. As a senior tuakana in kapa haka, he has shown great consistency and commitment, performing on stage, at tangi, and leading Oswald House in haka competitions. His talents shone brightly in this year’s production of Grease, where he impressed audiences with his performances in two roles, demonstrating excellence in singing, dancing, and acting. Taniora's generosity in supporting his fellow actors, along with his participation in the Trio of Talents and various concerts, reflects his dedication. His unforgettable portrayal of the Teen Angel will remain etched in our memories. 

Chris Proctor - Public Speaking and Debating

Chris has demonstrated excellence in Public Speaking since Year 9. This year, he passed two modules of his Speech New Zealand Associate Diploma with excellence and represents the school in its top debating team. Chris placed 1st in the Churchill Oratory and 2nd in the impromptu speech competition, and was selected for the Race Relations Hawke’s Bay Regional competition. As chairman of the Hastings Youth Council, Chris uses his public speaking skills to represent youth with confidence and clarity. His dedication to debating, persuasive argumentation, and calm demeanor under pressure make him a standout speaker and leader. 

TRIPLE COLOURS 

Philip Larkin - Drama, Public Speaking and Debating

Philip is an exceptional student, achieving his Speech New Zealand Associate Diploma in Performance with distinction. A versatile performer, he brought humour and charm to the role of Eugene in Grease and has been praised by the leaders of the National Youth Drama School, where he has contributed for the past four years. Philip’s public speaking achievements are equally impressive, as he is the first student in over a decade to earn distinction in all three modules of his Speech New Zealand Diploma in Public Speaking. A dedicated debater, Philip has excelled in competitions, shown leadership in school events, and been a tireless supporter of the Arts Department. His excellence, hard work, and passion make him a role model for younger students. 

Rector comments: Thank you, Mr Howlett. We are now going to sing the school song,  Highways in the Heart. 

School song: Highways in the Heart 

Rector comments: 

Thank you, please be seated. Whilst today’s focus is presentation of Colours, there have been a few significant sporting achievements recently and I’ll now call on Sports Prefect Finn Reid to tell us all about them. 

In Mountain Biking Over the final weekend of the school holidays, the Lindisfarne Mountain Biking team took part in the Manawatu School Championships. Fortunately, the weather held off, providing ideal conditions for a great weekend of riding. Our standout performances came in the Downhill category, with the following impressive results: 

1. Konna Schnell secured second place in the U15 category, a remarkable effort considering his chain came off halfway down the course. 

2. Tennyson Wiffin battled hard to finish third in the U16 category. 

3. Charlie Wiffin delivered a sensational performance, recording the fastest time on the course and claiming the top spot overall for the day. 

Can Konna, Tennyson and Charlie please come forward to collect their medals.  

In Skiing Oliver Wilkins has triumphed at the NZ Alpine National Championships, securing the title in the U16 category for his age group. In addition, Oliver has gained selection for the New Zealand Alpine Youth Ski Team, where Olly has been ranked as the 2nd seed—an incredible achievement! 

Can Oliver please come forward to receive a certificate. 

Rector comments:  Thank you, Finn. I will now hand over to Mr Harper, who will read out the first of our Winter Sports Colours.  

Good afternoon, school! It's my honour to present the Winter Sport Colours for 2024. 

Sport Colours recognise the achievements of our senior students, Year 11 to Year 13, who have excelled in their chosen sports.  

The recipients will be announced in four groups. Let's please reserve our applause until the end of each group. 

Group #1: Can the following students please come forward: Austin McDougall, Joshua Snjiders, Hamish Butler, Beck Allen, Charlie Wiffin and Tennyson Wiffin. 

Boxing

NAME:           Austin McDougall              

YEAR:             12 CITATION: This season, Austin has achieved a remarkable record of 4 wins with no losses, all victories coming by first-round TKO—an impressive testament to his skill and determination in the ring. He has attended several NZ training camps this year and recently earned a spot on the New Zealand junior team, set to compete against Australia in December.  

Shooting

NAME:           Joshua Snijders            

YEAR:             11 CITATION: Josh has delivered consistently strong performances throughout the Central Lower North Island Secondary Schools Series (CLNISS), finishing 3rd in the Single Barrel event. In the South Island Points Score event, he was one of only two shooters to achieve a perfect 60/60, eventually shooting off to claim the High Overall title.  

Josh also shot off for the South Aggregate Trophy, securing 2nd place. In the NZ Single Barrel competition, he hit 15/15 but narrowly missed out on a placing. However, his impressive scores earned him selection for the Hawke's Bay Regional team, which finished 2nd overall.  

Adventure Racing 

NAME:           Hamish Butler              

YEAR:             11 CITATION: Hamish has competed at the highest level in adventure racing for the past three years, showcasing his exceptional endurance and determination. This year, he was part of the duo that won the prestigious Triple Peaks race, placed first overall at the Rotorua Tough Guy and Gal National Secondary Schools competition, and helped his team secure 3rd place overall. In addition to his adventure racing achievements, Hamish also placed 4th in the ECNI Cross Country Relays and 7th in the ECNI Cross Country, demonstrating his versatility and athleticism across multiple disciplines. 

Surfing

NAME:           Beck Allen             

YEAR:             11 CITATION: Beck has completed an impressive year on the surfboard, securing 3rd place in the NZ Grom Series Gisborne Junior Pro and finishing 12th in the Under-16 New Zealand Grom Circuit. He dominated the Hawkes Bay under-16 competitions, winning all three events, and was ranked first in the open men's category after winning two out of three competitions. Congratulations Beck. 

Mountain Biking

NAME:           Charlie Wiffin           

YEAR:             12 CITATION: Charlie is a hardworking and dedicated rider who has competed at a high level for several years. Specialising in downhill mountain biking, his commitment and perseverance have earned him impressive results. Notably, Charlie placed 5th at the New Zealand National Downhill Championships and was selected by Cycling New Zealand to compete in the 2024 Downhill World Cup in France.  

Mountain Biking NAME:           Tennyson Wiffin           

YEAR:             11 CITATION: Tennyson is a dedicated rider with a passion for multiple biking disciplines. He has particularly excelled in both Downhill and Pump Track, consistently achieving podium finishes in these events. Tennyson's commitment to improving his skills is evident in the time and effort he invests in his training. His placing of 2nd in the U17 category at the New Zealand Pump Track Nationals was a significant achievement. Congratulations, Tennyson! 

Can Mr Harland come forward to announce the second group please. 

Group #2: Can the following boys please come forward: Carter Lachmund, Will Foster, Tom Cassidy, Tom Speers, and Hugo Till.  

Football NAME:           Carter Lachmund         

YEAR:             11 CITATION: Carter has been an exceptional asset to the Lindisfarne College football team. With an impressive strike rate of 51 goals in just 62 games, he quickly established himself as a key offensive weapon for the 1st XI. His outstanding dribbling skills further solidified his role, making him an integral part of the team as a Year 11 student. 

Football

NAME:           Will Foster          

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Thank you for your outstanding service to the Lindisfarne College football team. Your remarkable 76 appearances and four goals are a testament to your skill, consistency, and dedication. Your exceptional passing and positive attitude, both on and off the field, have been instrumental in boosting the team’s success and morale. We deeply appreciate all the hard work and commitment you’ve shown throughout your time with us. 

Football  NAME:           Tom Cassidy         

YEAR:             13 CITATION:  As the 2024 vice-captain and a key player, Tom leads by example, letting his actions speak louder than words. Calm under pressure, he combines skill and composure with a relentless drive that fuels his vision on the field. His strength and determination make him tough to dispossess, and he’s always willing to put his body on the line for the team. Tom's commitment to team success is second to none. He consistently prioritises the group’s goals, contributing both defensively and offensively, while scoring crucial goals throughout the season.  

Football  NAME:           Tom Speers         

YEAR:             13 CITATION: With 107 games and 91 goals at 1st XI level, Tom’s football speaks for itself. As the 2024 captain, he is a highly versatile player with exceptional skill and vision, always leading by example. Both on the field and in training, Tom consistently gives his all, setting a high standard for his teammates. Lindisfarne football is his passion, and every time he steps onto the pitch, he gives everything for the team and the school.  

Football  NAME:           Hugo Till         

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Hugo is a highly skilled player with exceptional vision and technique. A tough, no-nonsense competitor, he is strong on the ball and difficult to dispossess. His relentless drive to win elevates the team's intensity in every match. Quick and agile on the field, Hugo often showcases rapid footwork and has contributed crucial goals this season. With three years of experience in the 1st XI and selection for the Central Football U17s in 2024, Hugo continues to prove himself as a key player and leader. 

Can Mr Howlett come forward to announce the third group please. 

Group #3: Can Riley Lennox, Jacob Holder, Selby Jowsey, Jett Varcoe and Gordy Chatfield please come forward. 

Hockey NAME:           Riley Lennox          YEAR:             12 CITATION: Riley has played one season with the 1st XI Hockey team, earning 24 caps. In 2024, he was selected for both the HB U18 team and the NZ Emerging Black Sticks camp. 

Riley has a keen ability to read the game and effectively penetrate the opposition’s defence. His strong stick skills enable him to get behind defenders and create scoring opportunities. He makes quick decisions that influence the pace of play, and his sharp execution of skills has established him as a formidable player. 

Riley consistently demonstrates a high level of intensity and commitment during training, leading by example in games. His astute tactical awareness allows him to collaborate with teammates to enhance their understanding of the game. 

Hockey NAME:           Jacob Holder        

YEAR:            12 CITATION: Jacob has played three seasons with the 1st XI Hockey team, earning 77 caps. He was selected for the HB U16 team in 2022 and the HB U18 teams in both 2023 and 2024. 

His level of play and skill are a testament to his dedication and commitment to hockey. Not only does Jacob execute stick skills at an exceptionally high level, but his ability to read and develop play has also contributed significantly to the team’s growth. He leads the way in training with remarkable intensity and commitment, setting a strong example during games. 

As a reliable player with a robust skill set, excellent fitness, and strong tactical awareness, Jacob consistently enhances the performance of those around him. 

Hockey  NAME:           Selby Jowsey       

YEAR:             12 CITATION: Selby has played two seasons with the 1st XI Hockey team, earning 65 caps, and has been selected for the HB U18 team in both 2023 and 2024. As a goalkeeper, Selby is known for his strength, agile reflexes, and excellent coordination. His ability to read the game allows him to guide the defence effectively, while his quick reactions make him a formidable challenge for opposing attackers. 

Selby’s dedication to improving his game is evident in the time he spends analysing past performances to refine his skills. In addition to his playing career, he also gives back to the sport as an umpire for HB Hockey, demonstrating his commitment to the game both on and off the field. 

Hockey  NAME:           Jett Varcoe        

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Jett has played three seasons with the 1st XI Hockey team, earning an impressive 74 caps, and has been selected for the HB U18 team in both 2023 and 2024. He is an outstanding player whose determination, work ethic, and unwavering commitment—both on and off the field—have been pivotal to the team’s success this year. 

Jett’s fierce will to win drives him to give his absolute best in every game. His combination of skill, speed, and relentless determination has made him a key figure in the team’s performance this season. As Co-Captain, Jett exemplifies the consummate team player, consistently supporting and leading the squad both on the field and in team culture. 

Hockey  NAME:           Gordy Chatfield        

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Gordy has played three seasons with the 1st XI Hockey team, amassing an impressive 82 caps. He has also been selected for the HB U18 team in both 2023 and 2024, serving as Captain in 2024, and participated in the NZ Emerging Black Sticks camp. 

As a strong distributor of the ball, Gordy excels in extending play through the midfield and contributing to the attack. His presence on the field consistently makes a significant impact; he performs his role to a high standard, enabling his teammates to focus on their tasks.  

With exceptional stick skills and a keen ability to read the game, Gordy has established himself as a formidable opponent. 

As Co-Captain, he leads from the front, utilizing his analytical skills to enhance the team’s performance and strategy. 

I would like to welcome Mr Bell to come forward to announce the fourth group please. 

Group #4: Can Perez Malo, Hunter Andrew, Will Turner, Angus Scott, Noah Rogers and Reid Palmer please come forward/ 

Rugby NAME:           Perez Malō         

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Perez consistently excelled in every game with his exceptional speed, establishing himself as one of our top line-breakers. Leading by example, his dedication and performance throughout the season earned him the Best Forward award. His remarkable contributions also secured his selection for the HB U18 team. 

Rugby NAME:           Hunter Andrew        

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Hunter's confidence soared throughout the season as he showcased his strength as a powerful ball carrier. His relentless determination in the midfield consistently pressured the opposition’s defence, making a significant impact in every game. His impressive performances earned him a well-deserved selection for the HB U18 team. 

Rugby NAME:           Will Turner         

YEAR:             13 CITATION: Will's actions inspired his teammates as he consistently led by example, showing unwavering dedication and resilience. His commitment in every game elevated the entire squad, earning him recognition as an outstanding leader. As a result, he was selected for the HB U18 team. 

Rugby NAME:           Angus Scott         

YEAR:             12 CITATION: Angus played every game this season, consistently improving with each match as a halfback. His dynamic sniping runs made him a constant threat with the ball, highlighting both his skill and determination. His standout performances earned him a well-deserved selection for the HB U18 team. 

Rugby NAME:           Noah Rogers     

YEAR:             12 CITATION: Noah was a pivotal playmaker, excelling in both attack and defence. His exceptional versatility across multiple positions was a major asset to the team’s success. As captain of the Hawke's Bay U16 team, he led them to victory in the Regional Tournament in Levin. His outstanding performance earned him the title of "Player of the Tournament," and he was also selected for the U16 Hurricanes Tournament Team. 

Rugby NAME:           Reid Palmer     

YEAR:             11 CITATION: In his debut season with the 1st XV, Reid was the standout back. His elusive running and speed made him a constant threat with the ball in hand. His exceptional performances throughout the season earned him selection for the Hawke's Bay U16 team, which went on to win the Regional Tournament in Levin. Reid was also named in the U16 Hurricanes Tournament Team. 

Rector Comments: Thank you, Mr Bell, and congratulations to all the boys recognised for Colours today. 

We won’t be meeting for an assembly on Friday as the hall will be getting set up for the Arts Dinner, so just a reminder to all seniors about the compulsory chapel on Sunday which you need to be at in order for you to fulfil your two chapel commitments for the term, and to students at all levels it would be wonderful if you’re also here on Sunday evening to support the Prefects as they deliver the Chapel service, and reflect on their time at the College. 

Reverend Dunnett will now close our assembly in prayer.  

Article added: Thursday 17 October 2024