News about Old Boys

Some Bits and Pieces about Old Boys

Leighton Hague After finishing at the school, and completing Level 3 History (I have to add!), I undertook a Bachelor of Business Studies, Majoring in Accounting. It was a very interesting and challening degree. During my time at Massey, I studied two history papers (Politics of Protest and Headlines in History), both went really well and were very enjoyable! Since completing my degree at the end of 2010, I was offered a job at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand where I have been working for 3 weeks now and I am thoroughly enjoying it! I was very fortunate to land the job as the Bank has not employed an accounting graduate in 5 years.

Rhys Evans I would like to enquire about joining the PNBHS Old Boys' Association. As a former pupil who has lost touch with many of the good friends I had at the school I believe this would be a good forum in which to try and reacquaint myself with them. I left PNBHS at the end of 1996 and joined the RNZAF where I have been ever since. I am an Air Warfare Officer (previously known as a Navigator) on 40 SQN flying the C-130 Hercules and am currently employed over in Afghanistan (doing the same job as Tim Costely did).

I have very fond memories of my time at PNBHS. Being heavily involved in music at the time I never got into rugby but something must have rubbed off as ever since I have been playing - including a stint representing the RNZAF at Rugby League! Surfing takes up the rest of my spare time, again something that I picked up after leaving school but have now travelled the world searching for the perfect wave! Married living in Auckland (when not deployed) and reckon it would be great to catch up with some of the guys for a game of golf and a beer. Rhys Evans (1992-1996)

Steve Satherley Thanks for the latest Old Boys “Contact” received this week – enjoyed the update! I believe you have my email address on file but based on the request note with the update my email address is steve@satherley.co.uk My other contact details are below. As an update on me I returned to New Zealand in August in time for the world cup after an absence of 16+ years (Resided UK for 11 years and Saudi Arabia for the last 5.5 years) We have a home and business that prospers in Wellington and I am currently enjoying a period of R & R whilst considering new challenges. I would like to take part in some of the Old Boys events and hopefully rub shoulders with some old colleagues – any chance of providing a diary of proposed dates?

Simon Henshaw now back in NZ after some 12 years overseas, mainly in the UK. Took up a new job with Fonterra in September with title of 'Project Lead'. Essentially he leads a team of project managers which sort of makes sense of the title doesn't it. Now lives in Cambridge with wife Emma and son, Angus.

David Geary Appeared as train driver in Tangiwai in the Sunday Theatre slot on TV1 August 14^th

This is David’s reply when I contacted him about his appearance in the programme. It was fun to hang out at Otaki railway station for a night with a lot of old loco buffs, telling me which levers to push. It's hot in the cab and you can feel the mega force in front of you. But my acting in NZ career went into the river with me. So won't be popping up in anything. Though, did write and co-direct a short film in wellington, called Wellington, earlier this year.

Moved to North Vancouver in January 2011 as wife got a job over here. Massive shift with two little boys in tow. Long wet winter but lovely summer, nice to be a short seabus ride to the big city and snow, and very family friendly. Great public transport too. We don't have a car, just are in the car pool for when we need one.

Writing my novel... again, a short play, and trying to get an agent for TV and film work. My old play PACK OF GIRLS about women's rugby is having a revival in NZ at the moment, with RWC excitement. Sorry I'll miss it.

Though, I was actually playing touch rugby here at a club, which was a lot of fun. And got to play alongside and against some Canada rugby reps who will play in the RWC so that will be fun to see how they do. They must beat Tonga and Japan to keep their funding levels so some huge games within the larger picture.

2011 Graduates from Auckland University

Connor Duffy: Postgrad Dip in Arts; Kelvin Joe: Postgrad Dip in Science; Teh Gyu Kim: Tertiary Foundation Certificate; Adam McCoy: B.Music; Tiby Moor: Grad Dip in Teaching (Primary); Kurt Olsen: Postgrad Dip in Science; Matthew Rowe: B.Medicine and B.Surgery; Zhiwei Sima: B.Comm; Neil Stenhouse: Grad.Dip in Arts; Michael Wilson: Postgrad Dip in Science; David van der Zowe: Cert of Proficiency

Update from Ben Sutherland (9397)

After leaving Boys’ High in 1997, I embarked on a long journey at Massey studying Maths and IT, then moved to studying IT only. After discovering Edgar Allen Poe, I had a complete change of mind set and changed my degree to study English and Drama (with a few Media Studies papers thrown in for good measure).
I then promptly used my English degree and found a job as a forklift driver at progressive distribution.After a 9 months of meeting interesting characters and saving up for a wedding, I enrolled at teachers college, became a husband, and quit my job to embark as an educationalist.
We moved to Gisborne in 2005 and I began a job at Gisborne Boys’ High teaching Social Studies and eventually Mathematics. We then travelled overseas and then rushed back to have our first child. I picked up an English Job at Lytton High school in Gisborne and taught there until the end of 2011. (Whilst living opposite a Mr. Dan King)
I now have a job as TIC Media Studies at Wanganui Collegiate School and still teach the odd English class.

Cameron Gurney - top military award

PALMERSTON NORTH LOCAL WINS ARMY TOP RECRUIT AWARD
Palmerston North local 22 year old Sapper Cameron Gurney was presented the award for Top Recruit – Hinton VC Platoon at NZ Army’s All Arms Recruits Course 362 March Out Ceremony, held on 30 November in Waiouru.

The award, presented by Chief of Army Major General Timothy Keating, was made in recognition of the hard work Sapper Gurney displayed throughout 16 weeks of basic training.
“There is a unique comradeship that comes only to those who have been through this training, through their shared experiences,” says Major General Keating. “Often, when facing great hardships together the strongest bonds are forged from trusting others in the same group.”
“This experience will define them for the rest of their lives.”
Before joining Army, Sapper Gurney had many jobs, from labouring work such as scaffolding, to working in a meat works. Most recently he worked in research for Fonterra.

“I joined the Army because I have heaps of family in the Army. My father is in the Army, my uncle – even my grandparents,” says Sapper Gurney. “I also really like the fitness side of it.”
“The biggest challenge for me was taking a step back. In some aspects it’s like going to back school,” he says. “When you join the Army you’re the new guy, so you have to earn respect and give respect too.”
Despite the challenges – basic training also brings its rewards. “My most enjoyable experience was passing the finish line after the final exercise and feeling like you’re part of the service,” says Sapper Gurney. “That plus the practical and physical stuff: learning to shoot, firing grenades, riding in a helicopter – that sort of thing.”
When asked what he’d like other people to know about the NZ Army, Sapper Gurney says “If you’re not doing anything – give it a try. If you are doing something – give it a try. Some people might not suit it – but you should at least try it.”
Following his basic training, Sapper Gurney will join the Royal NZ Engineers as a Field Engineer.

Andrew Watson and William Taylor to represent NZ in London in October

I am writing to let you know that two of your former pupils, Andrew Watson (who undertook a carpentry apprenticeship) and William Taylor (who undertook an engineering apprenticeship) have been selected to represent New Zealand in their respective trades at WorldSkills London 2011 – 4-8 October 2011.

WorldSkills competitions are a bit like a Skills Olympics for young trades men and women, with 50 countries involved and over 1000 competitors, each completing a practical project in their particular skill. Andrew and William were both chosen to be part of the New Zealand team after they won their trade category at the WorldSkills New Zealand National Finals in September 2010. Over the last year both Andrew and William have been training hard and are ready to take on the best of the best from around the world. We are impressed with both Andrew and William and know they will acquit themselves well on the international stage, and be a credit to all those who have played a part in making them who they are today.

News about Tim Eglinton

Tim graduated MBChB from Otago University Medical School in 1997 and completed his Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) in 2004. He then spent a year at Cambridge University NHS Foundation Trust Adenbrooke's Hospital Cambridge UK followed by twelve months at the Royal Adelaide Hospital specialising in Colorectal Surgery. After six months specialisation in laparoscopic surgical processes at Queen Elizabeth Hospital Adelaide he returned to Christchurch. He was appointed to a position with Otago University School of Medicine sharing his time as a Senior Lecturer at the Christchurch Clinical School and acting as a Consulting Surgeon for the Canterbury District Health Board. He has also commenced a private surgical practice in Christchurch. His research work has seen him present papers at the 2008 RACS Conference in Hong Kong and the 2009 British Medical Annual Conference in Harrogate. Later this year he has been invited as a visiting surgeon to the USA College Annual Conference in San Fransisco to be followed by a study tour covering Clinics in Cleveland, Toronto and the Mayo Clinic in New York. In 2010 he was elected to the New Zealand Board of the RACS. Married to Med classmate Devonie Waaka, they have three young sons to occupy their spare time which also includes both of them studying to complete Masters Degrees.

Nick Roydhouse doing well in Football USA

Cick on the link below to get an update on Nick's progress in the States

http://suathletics.syr.edu/news/2011/8/16/MSOC_0816110626.aspx

David Geary appears in TV 1 drama on Tangiwai Disaster

David appeared as train driver in Tangiwai in the Sunday Theatre slot on TV1 August 14^th

This is David’s reply when I contacted him about his appearance in the programme.

It was fun to hang out at Otaki railway station for a night with a lot of old loco buffs, telling me which levers to push. It's hot in the cab and you can feel the mega force in front of you. But my acting in NZ career went into the river with me. So won't be popping up in anything. Though, did write and co-direct a short film in wellington, called Wellington, earlier this year.

Staff farewells at end of term 2

As term 2 of this academic year concluded, the school farewelled the following staff members:

GAP Tutor Dan Cowley has been with us for six months and has assisted by coaching sports teams, assisting the PE Department, Mr Calton and has undertaken duties at College House. He returns to the UK to begin his tertiary studies at Manchester University where he will be studying Business.

GAP Tutor Markus Banek has been with us for the past twelve months and has assisted by coaching sport, organizing school- wide activities and presentations and undertaking duties at College House. He returns to Germany and will attend Munich University where he will study finance and economics.

Mr McGregor has been teaching at Palmerston North Boys’ High School for the last eighteen months as a Physical Education Teacher. Mr McGregor has coached a range of sports teams including junior elite rugby teams. He has assisted with school-wide events such as athletics and has accepted a range of challenges in this time including completing the Crest to Crest Challenge with this year’s Year 13 group.

Mr McGregor has been a master at College House for one year and accepted responsibility as Year 11 Dean at College House in 2011.

Mr McGregor is leaving to teach in China before travelling extensively. We wish him safe travel and all the very best for the opportunites and challenges that he will face.

Mr Sims has been teaching at Palmerston North Boys’ High School for the past 14 ½ years. Mr Sims has been a passionate and experienced teacher of history, geography and Social Studies. During his tenure at Palmerston North Boys’ Mr Sims has accepted responsibility within the history department for curriculum development or running a Year level programme.

Mr Sims has supported the diversity of school life experienced here. This has included coaching/ managing rugby teams, cricket teams, assisting back stage with musical productions, building the sport of chess in the school with some verve. He has run regional and national tournaments and promoted chess at contributing schools and this school. Mr Sims has always been ready to support school camps, he would readily give of his time to transport students to activities on weekends or in holidays and has ensured groups like CHOGM were supported so that school standards were maintained.

Mr Sims has provided outstanding and dedicated service to the young men in his care. There is no doubt that he is a capable and knowledgeable teacher. We wish him every success as he leaves to explore new opportunities and perhaps a little peace

Viv Bevan has Music Room dedicated to his sterling service at PNBHS

On Wednesday 13 July the music rehearsal room was officially named The Vivian Bevan Music Rehearsal Room to acknowledge the Mr Bevan’s extensive service to music in the school. An Board of Trustees occasion was held to recognise the efforts and expertise of Mr Bevan who was a teacher of music at PNBHS from February 1963. He came from St Peter Boys’ Preparatory school in Cambridge and was appointed by the late Stan Craven. He was appointed 2PR’s in music effective from September 1969 by Arnold Muirhead.

In January 1990 he stepped down from HOD Music in as he turned 60, but continued teaching until the conclusion of that year.

Mr Bevan survived five rectors in his time at PNBHS – appointed by the late Stan Craven, promoted by the late Arnold Muirhead, taught through the late Eric White’s tenure and through the first 4 year’s of David Sym’s tenure as rector and it must be mentioned that Mr Bevan taught the current rector what is now called core music when he was in third form at PNBHS. Since the rector’s time in his current role Mr Bevan has supported him and the school in unconditional fashion.

Mr Bevan to this day has an active interest in school music, in Mr Young and his team and mostly in the feats of the boys. His attention to recording the boys at various competitions is greatly appreciated, as is his passion, verve and enthusiasm.

Mr Bevan is remembered by many an old boy from his assembly performances on the piano, his amateur dramatics and his full school singing practices. Mr Bevan contributed a lot to school music and the school orchestra in his time at Palmerston North Boys’ High School. Mr Bevan is a gentleman and a man with considerable passion for music.

Mr Errol Brookie, ex Senior Master spoke at the dedication and recalled many a memory of Mr Bevan in action

Layamon Bakewell takes command of HMNZS Rotoiti

Lieutenant Layamon Bakewell joined the Royal New Zealand Navy in 2002. He completed a Business Studies degree under the Tangaroa Schememand then joined HMNZS Te Man for a year before serving on HMS Nottingham in the UK for a year and a half. Awarded his Bridge Watch-Keeping certificate in June 2006, he took command of HMZNS Wakakura in May 2007. When Wakahura was decommissioned in 2008, after a spell on Te Mana in the Arabian Gulf, he became the XO on the newest addition to the NZ fleet, HMNZS Wellington. IN this capacity, he was able to host Senior Master Peter Truter and five PNBHS students for a trip from Wellington to Auckland. On 23 June, Laymon takes command of the Inshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS Rotoiti – Congratulations on the appointment.

Barry Brown, NZ's dealmaker of the year

Chapman Tripp partner Barry Brown was names as the NZ Dealmaker of the Year at the 2011 ALB Australasian Law Awards held in Sydney last month. Barry is one of the country's most respected M&A and securities law practitioners, practising for over 30 years.
The ALB Awards noted his work highlights for the previous year included advising Shell on NZ's biggest M&A deal of the year, the acquisitition of Shell New Zealand's refining and downstrea, business by a consortium of the Guardians and Infratil; Shell on its NZ$472mil divestment of its conrenerstone stake in Fulton Hogan, a leading infrastructure contractor; and the NZ$2.2billion merger of MARAC Finance, Canterbury Building Society and SOuthern Cross Building Society.

Email from Nick Roydhouse to his mum, Rita (who works at school)

Thought I'd give you a quick update on what's been hapenning here. We had the Cuse awards for all the athletics programs on Tuesday night and it was a real well run event, alot different to our end of year prize giving for Hartwick. It was even aired on local tv throughout New York. I won the award for MVP of the soccer team which was awesome, and even presented an award for "Game of the year" which was won by football for there win in the pinstripe bowl.
This is taken from the suathletics website showing the award I won:
A team ‘Cuse Award was presented to a member of each of Syracuse’s 22 varsity squads. The ‘Cuse Award in each sport is given to the student-athlete who, in the opinion of his or her teammates, best represents a major contributor to the team, provides effective leadership, exhibits good sportsmanship, demonstrates commitment to academics, understands the importance of community service and demonstrates school spirit. The sport winners included Kwaku Boah (men’s track & field), Ieva Staponkute(women’s track & field), Cathering DeSarle (women’s cross country), Pat Dupont (men’s cross country), Martina Loncarica (field hockey), Antwon Bailey (football), Stefanie Marty (ice hockey), Rick Jackson (men’s basketball), Kayla Alexander (women’s basketball), Vince Berry (men’s rowing), John Galloway (men’s lacrosse), Nick Roydhouse (men’s soccer), Hayley Todd (volleyball), Kelly Saco (softball), Alicia Roberts (spirit squad), Stephanie Lefebre (women’s swimming & diving), Kuba Kotynia (men’s swimming & diving), Emily Harman (tennis), Liz Hogan (women’s lacrosse), Alyscha Mottershead (women’s soccer) and Rachael Ogundiran (women’s rowing).
I have attached at the bottom the documentary Kelly made of me for her class, it's pretty good.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmUTHjI2jM0

Letter from Rhys Evans (9296) - give him a call!

Good afternoon,
I would like to enquire about joining the PNBHS Old Boys' Association. As a former pupil who has lost touch with many of the good friends I had at the school I believe this would be a good forum in which to try and reacquaint myself with them.

I left PNBHS at the end of 1996 and joined the RNZAF where I have been ever since. I am an Air Warfare Officer (previously known as a Navigator) on 40 SQN flying the C-130 Hercules and am currently employed over in Afghanistan (doing the same job as Tim Costely did).

Rhys Evans (1992-1996)
Please reply to email address below
chester.the.kiwi@gmail.com

Leighton Hague (0307) at Reserve Bank

Good morning Dom,I have just been reading over the old boys news on the website and thought that I would drop you a line about what I have been upto since leaving the school in 2007.

After finishing at the school, and completing Level 3 History (I have to add!), I undertook a Bachelor of Business Studies, Majoring in Accounting. It was a very interesting and challening degree. During my time at Massey, I studied two history papers (Politics of Protest and Headlines in History), both went really well and were very enjoyable!
Since completing my degree at the end of 2010, I was offered a job at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand where I have been working for 3 weeks now and I am thoroughly enjoying it! I was very fortunate to land the job as the Bank has not employed an accounting graduate in 5 years.

The Adlington Brothers

Getting the lawnmower fixed, found out what Scott and Craig(9397) are up to from their dad. Scott is living in Melbourne working as National Facilities and Helpdesk Manager for Reece, a big plumbing concern. Basically he deals with the layout of stores, development of shops etc. He is playing golf and, according to dad, has a handicap around 6, which he is not very happy about. Brother Craig is also in Melbourne working for the ANZ Bank. Was involved with Industrial banking, but is now involved with new developments. Also a keen golfer. (Old cricketers play golf?!)

The Hindrup brothers

Had dinner at the Village Inn in Hokowhitu and mine host was Dave Hindrup, the father of Phillip(9296) and Matthew(9600). After leaving school, Phillip went to Massey where he competed a degree in Resource Planning and Management. Worked in various places such as Whangarei, the Hawkes Bay and Levin before returning to PN to work for the City Council. He has now moved across to Horizons. Matthew is currently doing a degree in Graphic Design and Photography at UCOL

Two Items from Stu Leighton

Old Boys Cricket Club of Palmerston North Centenary

The Club are celebrating their centenary over the weekend of 28-30 January, 2011. The weekend consists of a "Get together" on the Friday 28, Golf morning on Saturday 29, a formal dinner at the Racecourse on Saturday night, followed by a cricket match on Sunday 30. Former members are also invited to submit their best ever Old Boys team to a competition to be judged by a guest panel.

For more information contact Stuart Leighton at leightons@pnbhs.school.nz

Best Ever PNBHS Rugby Team

At a recent fundraiser for the rugby tour of the UK, Hamish McKay and a bunch of his Auckland mates drew up their PNBHS dream team. I'm sure this is controversial, so please feel free to have you say!
Full back: Mark Findlay; Wings: Simon Clavis abd Andre Taylor; Centre: Craig Wickes; 2nd 5: Bob Burgess; 1st 5: Aaron Cruden; Half Back: Ian Steven; No 8: Emosi Koloto; Flanks: James Oliver, Geoff Grant; Lcks: Jason Eaton, John Loveday; Front Row: Brett Craw and Steve Cumberland; Hooker: Bruce Henare!

Auckland Old Boys' Dinner

The Auckland branch of the PNBHS Old Boys Association continued with its annual dinners in mid-September with 50 former pupils turning out on a rather bleak night. The new chairman for the year is Auckland accountant and JP Peter Jollands with Peter Mitchell remaining on as secretary, treasurer and general factotum.

Those attending this year's function included the Rector Tim O'Connor (8185), Board members Rolf Leenards (7579) and Kevin Burnett (7276). The guest speaker at our annual dinner last night in Auckland was old boy and former all Black half back Deano Kenny (7779) who is now a chiropractor on Auckland's North Shore

Others attending were Peter Jollands (5761), Peter Mitchell (5256), Gordon Houghton (4951), Fred Buckley (4347), Russell Callander (5658), Tony Chadwick (5862), Peter Gorton (7680), Rob Moody (5860), Harvey Kerr (6468), Barry Tremaine (7074), Dugald Page (5155), Chris Johnstone (5962), Peter Pollett (4445), Maurie Rendle (4751), Craig Manning (7680), Derek Adam (5054), Jack Thorburn (4851), Tim Murphy (8992), Tony Plews (6266), Dave Winter (5558), Peter Arlidge (4952), Murray Grigg (5153), Joe Barber (4953), Barry Gill (4853), Louis Gill (4648), Ian Trembath (7074), Murray Healey (7579), Richard Oliver (4750), Brett Bennison (6569), Kevin Crossley (5559), Tony de Cleene (5256), Chris Treleaven (7377), Ron Kilgour (5254), Rob Kilgour (7579), Gary Kilgour (7781), Steve Walsh (7276), Warwick Neville (4749), Merv Nixon (5458), Graeme Griggs (5660), Bruce Murray (6670), Mike Collinson (5862), Kit Divehall (5861), Duncan Anderson (8185), Mark Woolley (?), Colin Tilley (7175), Jonathon Phillips (7276), Ross George (7377), Anthony Grayson (7377) and Jeremy Lane (77?).

There were apologies from another 38 old boys. The Auckland database now tops 800 covering Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton with around 100 actively participating. The Auckland group has at least a dozen old boys meeting monthly for lunch at the city's mission Bay restaurant complex and also fields several golf teams in various tournaments.

(Note from School Archivist, Dom King) If any of you would like to share your life and experiences with the rest of the PNBHS community, please feel free to flick me a note and I'll put it up on this website. Please send to kingd@pnbhs.school.nz

News on the 1997 Leavers

Tapped Pinners and Dave Barwick's brains and came up with the following. Please drop me a line at kingd@pnbhs.school.nz with your info.

On the staff at school, in addition to Dave Barwick and Gareth Rennie (Pinners) we also have Saul Treadwell, with his fine set of whiskers!
Also teaching is Zeb Nicklin at Hato Paora. Quite a few of you are in accountancy in varying forms: Craig Adlington is in Wellington or is it Melbourne (Please update us), Nick Barton is in Victoria, Australia, and Andrew Bethwaite works for Devlin, Cameron and Hayes here in PN. Daniel King works as an architect in Gisborne, when the surf's not good; Cam Trollope is in design in Wellington. Rob Wall, last heard, is married and working in Canada. Tim Costley, after a spell in Afghanistan, is now flying a desk at Trentham, co-ordinating RNZAF helicopter operations in NZ. Also married and expecting 2nd kid. Angus McMillan, Andy Phillips and Michael Buckman work for British and American Tobacco in Auckland and some of them play in a highly successful social cricket team along with Alex Heatley, Sam and Luke Irving and Dave Rankin. Luke Irving has been involved in a range of entrepreneural activities, including wine at one stage, which must have please his father, Craig! Grant Webb is playing rugby for Hawkes Bay and Scott Walsh is a personal trainer on the Gold Coast.Working in PN are Stu Buchanan, a builder, Alton Rhodes, an electrician, Brandon McHardy, a baker and Gareth Fergus, working at Toyota Head Office. Ketan Parsot is in Early Education and is busy completing a Masters in Education. Joe Fisher and James Garlick are in Japan. (What are you guys up to?) Aaron Shirriffs is in PN running his own landscaping business and playing in a band. Ben Fitchett is in London, as is Cameron Stapleton. Jared Small is still in the Air Force and in PN. Nick Dunn is in South Korea - teaching English?? Ben Walkley is working up in Auckland - not canoeing competitively anymore, but still likes to get out on the water sailing.

Please feel free to contact me with info on your colleagues and I'll put it up on the website.

Caleb Wall - what I'm up to

Following my request for info about Caleb, wheels started turning and I received this letter from Caleb outlining what he has been up to.

Dear Dom
The below email came my way – so thought it was a good chance to get back in touch with you and let you know what I have been up to.
After working some time in Uzbekistan and Pakistan, while completing my Masters in International Development at Massey, I decided to take the plunge and start a PhD in Sociology. I studied at Bonn University (Germany) with field work for one year in Uzbekistan, living in a small village (a former collective farm) and researching the changes their agricultural system had been through post the collapse of the Soviet Union. Bit boring but they published the thesis anyway.
After graduating I started consulting in the private sector – focusing on the social impacts of major extractive industry projects and how to improve them. This involved work in underground gold mines in Siberia (cold, Russian language came in handy), coal in South Africa (warm, can see why you love the place), uranium in Mongolia (wild but fun) and a few other places.
Long story short a global environmental consultancy, Environmental Resources Management (www.erm.com), hired me to their Houston, Texas, office two years ago. Since then I have been working more and more in the oil industry, including on the recent Gulf of Mexico spill response.
So – I am well – now in Mongolia for some work at a big copper mine here, and look forward to hearing your news.

Damon Aitkens (1987) wrote to Stu Leighton

After leaving Boys High in 1987 I went to PN Polytech (UCOL) and did a year long Hospitality and Tourism course. During my work experience placement I started at the Quality Inn PN as a waiter in the Armada Cavery from 1988-1990. I worked in various positions within the Hotel. 1990-1991 I spent in London working in bars and travelling with my girl friend, now wife Brenda. 1991-97 I went back to the Quality Hotel and worked my way up the ranks to Restaurant Manager/Duty Manager.
1997-2006 I moved into Hospitality Supply sales for Hardy Trade selling commercial kitchen equipment to Restaurants and Bars.
2006-2010 I worked for Cowley Refrigeration selling Supermarket refrigeration and air conditioning.
2010 I am back selling Hospitality Equipment for Aitkens my territory is Taranaki, Manawatu,Wellington, Picton, Nelson.

I am happily married with 2 kids my Son Harrison starts at Boys High 2011 (he just got his letter today and is very excited about coming to Boys High.

Any old boys out there that want a deal on bar/kitchen equipment need to give me call or email damon@aitkens.co.nz

Update from Brendon Orr(2001) - letter I received recently from Brendon (Another ex-history student!!)

It would be fair to say that during my time at PNBHS I showed much by way of promise and little by way of application. I've worked hard since then to put that right.

I commenced a Bachelor of Arts at Massey University in 2002 intending to study history, classical studies and whatever else took my fancy. I soon became interested in Philosophy and transferred to the University of Auckland in 2003 to take advantage of the larger department and more sophisticated course of study. I graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in philosophy and political studies; receiving a senior prize. Philosophy as a discipline provided a fantastic foundation in critical thinking and argument but, of course, provided few career prospects.

With that in mind, and on the strength of my grades, I enrolled in a law degree as an advanced student in 2005. While I was by no means a brilliant student, I received my Bachelor of Laws with first class Honours in mid 2008; having been the Editor-in-Chief of the Law Review and research assistant to the Dean during that time.

I commenced practice as a Barrister and Solicitor at one of New Zealand's top three law firms in mid 2008, after receiving my degree. I left the firm and Auckland shortly thereafter to take up a position as an Assistant Crown Counsel in the Tax and Commercial team at the Crown Law Office in Wellington. As legal advisors to the Crown, the Office provides advice to and litigates on behalf of the New Zealand Government. In many respects it is a unique, diverse and enjoyable role. It is one in which I have found some small success, and will soon take up an appointment as the Assistant Crown Counsel to the Solicitor-General in September 2010.

In the new year I intend to embark, funding permitting, on overseas postgraduate study to obtain a Master of Laws from a US or UK university. I will send an update at some point on my progress in this regard. From there I hope to return to New Zealand to continue my career in the Government legal service.

Ex History students seen around recently by Dom King

Saw Dom Milne (2007) kicking a ball around by himself on Wallace Park - he said he was all alone and home and that a ball on field was a better prospect than staying inside!! He is in third year law at Canterbury and loving it. Naturally, he had to tell me that doing History at school has been a great help to him!! Of course! Then last night, met up with Sean Mallett (2009) at the Year 11 Drama production. He too is doing law at Vic, but isn't taking any history papers. I'm sure we'll see him and Aaron Hape (2009), also at Vic, on the TV soon wandering around the halls of power in Parliament. Hamish Journeaux (2009)also doing law has been doing volunteer work with the National Party - his eyes on the prize too!! According to mum, Karen, Gareth Richards is has finished his stint of being Parliamentary Adviser to Anne Tolley and is no practising as a barrister with a firm in Wellington. Another history student I have lost track of is Caleb Wall (1998) . Having completed his degree at Vic majoring in Women's Studies, he got a fascinating job working for the UNO in various parts of the world monitoring the position of women in developing countries. If anyone is in contact with Caleb, please ask his to get in touch. Saw Patrick Lindsay(2009) at a shooting event recently - also at Vic. Matthew Kendall (2009) and Michael Burnett (2009) are doing Defence Studies at Massey. Matthew is still shooting and is producing some impressive scores; Michael is on a Kippenberger scholarship - following Dad into the Army! I am teaching his brother David at present - hoping to get him through Level 3 at the end of the year. Bumped into Michael Oram (2009) in a local supermarket - studying at Massey, but, unfortunately, not shooting at present - just getting taller! Chris King (2009) is doing Health Sciences at Otago - and is playing for the Otago U19 rugby team. James Ellingham (2004) is working in PN as a journalist and had one huge party at the Past 1st XI Touring teams Reunion recently. Jesse Wall (2001) gained a Rhodes Scholarship, which put him closer to home as his father was working for the UN's FAO in Rome. Byron King (2002) completed a degree in English, Psych and Stats and after a year in Japan worked in Wellington in an insurance firm (which he hated) and now lives in London where he works for a media company as an analyst. He has just started up another band, which you can see on Facebook under "Behind the Library". Willie Hodge (2005) came to school last year as a student teacher, and made me feel seriously old, but also gratified, having past students now teaching History. Please drop us a line on what you are up to - it's also good for our current students to see what History students get up to. Cheers - Dom King

A letter from Jono Lester - racing Porsches

Hey there everyone!

For those of you who don’t know (which will be most of you) I’m travelling to Italy soon to compete in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup on the weekend of the 9^th to the 12^th of September.

I have been invited by Porsche on merit of my results at their talent scouting scholarship in February to compete in their Official Team Car for the final round of the championship at Monza. This is a huge opportunity for me and a great opportunity to test myself against the world’s best Porsche racers. It will also be my first competitive race for 18 months so as you can imagine I’m relatively excited!

If you are interested, I’ll be in the TV1 studio on Sunday for a sit down with Rod Cheeseman on Skoda Game On (TV1, 04:00pm, Sunday 22^nd August) to discuss the upcoming event and what the future holds for me also.

I’ve also just this week launched my new website thanks to my long time personal supporter, Webdesign Ltd, and all of my future updates can be found there at www.jonolester.com

The professionalism and regularity of ongoing updates (especially with social and emerging media) will be a real focus from this point forward. My new website is integrated with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr (for pics and images) and an online Wordpress blog where my future personal updates will be held. The world is going digital and we need to roll with the times, so we have a really professional online presence to accompany the usual press releases and other media stuff.

Thanks a bunch and take care,

Jono Lester

Old Boys Aaron Hape and Andy Liu (0409) win Scholarships

Hi Sir

I hear you wanted info about the scholarship I was awarded. It's the Sir Apirana Ngata Memorial Scholarship and I was awarded $1000 to contribute toward my university studies. Out of 97 applicants this year only 10 were awarded the scholarship.

Regards,
Aaron Hape

Andi Liu has received a $2000 Edard Connelly Kick-Start Scholarship, six of which are awarded each year to studens who demonstrate academic merit and all-round ability. Andi as a top student in chemistry, physics and mathematics winning a number of NCEA scholarships. He is studying at Auckland university and plans to specialise in biomedical engineering

Letter from Kendall Peacock (8993) to Rector

It is funny how there are times when you think of ones school. I am not sure what brought me back on this occasion, maybe it was Skippy back in the test arena, or maybe it was telling my mum well done - after some good from hard work, never the less it made me look up the school on line. I trawled through the website and have now caught up on much of what the school is up to. It seems funny really as PN is still home and work has not taken me out of the region, or not at least till the end of the year. Strange you might think but I am currently away from home - in Timor Leste this time commanding the NZ Coy we have there at the moment and loneliness in command leads you down many thoughts.
Two things struck me from this surfing.

First, how little things have changed and how focused the school remains on excellence across all facets of life. Of note are the academic achievements. Although my focus there was sports as I'm sure you may remember, academia remains the cornerstone of our lives (unless a contract in the IPL works your way) and I am glad that the school was able to get almost my potential out of me. It is good also to see the excellence in other areas by the boys as well, although in my day robot battles weren't really an option, it is good too see motor racing through to the staple of cricket, track and cycling being well represented by all.

Secondly, how much things have changed. Time has moved on and so have may of the staff (although some are still around). The school has more infrastructure and certainly more curriculum. It has been a few years now since I left school and maybe its time to revisit and run around the sports field a bit - I'm sure I'm as fast as I used to be! Ah Nostalgia.

On a similar note I remember sitting in assembly one morning (well I may have been leaning on the wall down the side - I cannot quite remember when - and Alec Astle was portraying how good the school was, not only in national terms but on the world stage. I remember thinking at the time what was to become a classic kiwi phrase in 'Yea Right". I started to believe this only a short time from departing school and seeing the product of other schools in my travels, but it has become even more evident to me in resent years as I see the young generation come through the military system. Most seem happy at existing and mediocre performance at all things. The reasons this does not occur with PNBHS leavers as a rule, I'm sure, comes down to many things, and history and tradition must play a big part. I am however convinced that the school has adapted itself well for this future (with initiates like the leadership program) but also in the ability to retain and train the best staff. I am pleased to see this is the case.

I am proud of what the school was and continues to be.

This has turned into more than I originally planed, which was, in essence to offer a well done. A well done from abroad to the school as an old boy who remains proud (albeit inactive) of his school and for the way the school continues to be the standard setter.

On a final note, if you could, remind the school on ANZAC day of the commitment the school has made to New Zealand on foreign shores (I still remember one of Bret Costley's stirring speeches on ANZAC Day), not only those that have past or in the past but currently as well. A number of old boys serve proudly and lead wisely and although they do not play in the S14 or make many national honours their Integrity, Courage, Pride, Respect, Humility and yes even Industry at times have a profound effect on our military and the influence of or nation globally.

Please pass on hello's in the staff room to the family of Leighton's and Duffy's and others that may still be around - I'm sure Digger must be in retirement by now. I think I will be home in time for Niger House game so (home game by my maths) I might have to bring the two boys along and introduce them to the school even though there is a wee way to go for them yet.

Ubique
Kendall Peacock 89 93
Maj
Timor Leste

Letter from WWII Old Boy's nephew

Could you please pass on to the History Master, staff and students of your school the deep appreciation of my mother Gladys LM (‘Lillian’) Whibley and myself for the Palmerston North Boys High School maintaining recognition and remembrance of my mother’s brother - Flying Officer Francis Lancelot (‘Lance’) Whibley RNZAF - killed when his Lockheed Hudson aircraft crashed into the Mediterranean shortly after take-off from Gibraltar 12 March, 1943. I noticed in a web search that Lance was specifically remembered in a previous Anzac day address at your school and we were very impressed that Lance is remembered.

My mother can still remember the shock and sorrow in her family when the news came through from the manager of the Dairy Co-op (the method then used in the farming community for official news) that Lance had had died in service for his country. Lance came from a family with a strong commitment to community and country. His father Frank served in the NZ forces in the middle East in WW1 and both of Lance’s brothers Eric (Navy-Europe) and Keith (Army-Italy) served overseas in theatre of war during WW11. My mother still possesses Lance’s last letter to her sent from Lance’s overseas posting. Lance was an outstanding young man and your school and his fellow students contributed to the development of Lance into the man that he became. Mum and myself held a photograph of Lance at our local Anzac service last year and we appreciate that his sacrifice is not forgotten.

Regards
Graeme Dustow

Kieran van Bunnick

Have just recieved a letter from Kieran who is currently attending the Brent Street Performing Arts School in Sydney. The one year course is everything Kieran imagined and in three weeks he will be going to the USA to attend dance workshops in New York and LA for ten days.

He has recently applied for an AMP scholarship and would love your support in the form of a vote. Voting closes on 31 July. If he wins, he could win $10,000

To vote, please go to www.doyourthing.co.nz ; search for Kieran van Bunnick - he is on the second page of the "Peoples Choice" section and cast your vote.

Tim Sherriffs

Tim returned to school recently and spoke at Assembly to the boys about his experiences in America. After leaving school, he gained a place at an American university called Milliken in Illionois - south of Chigago. Here he is studying Music and has just completed his 2nd year of study, gaining very good grades, by the sounds of things.

Troy Smith

Nicki Williams sends this news about Troy:
Thought you might like to know that Troy Smith has just been home for five weeks before starting a contract to play for Munster. He played a season for the Middleton club (near Cork) which finished at the end of April and was spotted by the Munster academy and offered a contract. Decided to take up their offer as it could be very lucrative! He said that his education at Boys High didn't go to waste after all !!

Old Boy returns to school after 74 years!

Jim Spall returns to school after 74 years. Jim visited Mr. Doolan's Social Studies class and informed boys of what life was like at school in the thirties.
Jim was in Gordon Club and was a top road runner and loved his days at school. He enjoyed the lesson with 10HG.

Old Boy lands Doctoral Coup

All good things come to those who seek with tenacity. A PNBHS old boy has discovered this through hard work and serendipity.

James Benn left PNBHS at the end of 2004. He began a general arts degree at Massey University. His ability in mathematics was strong, but James wished to explore other disciplines to broaden his thinking before making a narrow choice too early in the game. Philosophy is the course that probably set me up for success, says James. It got me thinking about thinking. Okay, metacognition if you must have the real word. Philosophy should be taught at school.

After dabbling in actuarial studies as well as anthropology, James came back to mathematics and statistics. Pure mathematics is my first lo ve, says James. He graduated last week with an Honours degree in Mathematics, First Class Honours and is currently studying for his Masters degree which he says he must finish quickly. He leaves for Spain at the end of May to take part in an international workshop for three weeks and then, in mid August, leaves for Chicago, USA, where he will be studying for his doctorate in Mathematics at Notre Dame University. His research field is Geometric Analysis. He has been awarded a five year scholarship covering full tuition and doctoral supervision as well as a living stipend.

Massey Dean's Awards

Two ex PNBHS students received their Dean's List awards at a function on campus recently. This means they achieved an average of A - or better the 2009 academic year - a great achievement. They were: Bradley Pullen: Bachelor of Business Studies and James Lissington: Cert Business Studies

Massey counted James under the extramural paper minima (at least 4 papers for the year, rather than 6 for internal students); the papers being completed as part of the Star programme. James in now studying a Bachelor of Ag Science.

Steve Lee sent in this snippit about Jon Baxter who was a pupil at PNBHS, even though it was just for a year or two. He was at College House for a short time and then boarded with us. This is his company that has produced the new Toyota Ad, he directed it - a very talented young chap.

To view click on this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_M-WaCg27k

Joanne Sutcliffe sent us this news about Grant Simpson - at PNBHS 1970-74

I am a friend of Grant Simpson. I heard that your school likes to hear about its Old Boys. I have attached an article about Grant that you may be interested in. Grant was at PNBHS in the late 60s & early/mid 70s. He then went to Massey University completing a BBS degree & post graduate diploma. He was also a member of the Palmerston North Surf Life Saving Club whilst he lived in Palmerston North. In his fifties now, he keeps himself very fit doing life saving and swimming. He works as the City Valuer at the City of Port Adelaide Enfield in Adelaide South Australia.

Extract fro The Portside Messenger - Adelaide

Here's a letter to Rector, Tim O'Connor, that's a little different!

Hi Tim
I don't know if you remember me, Robert Scott (80-84), I hope this email finds you and PNBHS in good health.
Not long ago I managed to upload onto Youtube, the music video a few of us 7th formers made in 1984, which won the TVNZ Shazam music video competition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPnGUNjGAS0

The song was called 'Am I the Walrus' and the school pop group was called 'The Audience'..if you get a chance, take a look -
it won the school a synth and amp- the music departments very first.

Warm regards
Robert