The Little School in the Valley

The Little School
in the Valley
Our little school — with a roll of over 500 pupils no longer so
‘little’ — retains a unique community character and a tradition of
excellence. This publication captures the history and character of
the Oratia district, school business and highlights, and personal
recollections from those who have studied, taught and volunteered
at this much-loved school.
The Little School in the Valley: 25 Years On
Nestled in the Oratia Valley west of Auckland, Oratia District
School has served its community for 125 years. Published for the
125th Jubilee in November 2007, The Little School in the Valley:
25 Years On carries on where the 1982 centennial book left off to
celebrate the school’s history, particularly the last 25 years.
25 Years On
Oratia District School 1882-2007
The
Little School
in the Valley
25 Years On
Oratia District School 1882–2007
Compiled by Pam Thomas and Judy Harré
Edited by Peter Dowling
A school and district developing and growing
Contents
Contents
Seasons in the Valley
4
Introductions
5
Whaia te iti kahurangi
Seek the desires of your heart
Oratia Remembered
8
Ki te tuohu koe
If you must bow down
Oratia Today
17
Me he manga teitei
Let it be to a lofty mountain
The School since 1982
30
School Photographs 2007
39
School Business
42
Part of a Community
68
Appendices
82
Front Cover:Year 0 and Year 6 children, 2007 (photo by Lloyd Wheeler).
Back Cover: Hall mural by Graeme Gash.
Published by Oratia District School, corner Shaw Road and West Coast Road, Oratia, Waitakere City 0604 New Zealand.
This book is copyright. Except for the purposes of fair reviewing, no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted
in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage
and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Infringers of copyright render themselves liable
to prosecution.
© 2007 Oratia District School
The authors assert their moral rights in the work.
ISBN 978-0-473-12526-4
First published 2007
Designed and printed by Helio Design and Print, Waitakere City.
Typeset in Bembo 10.5 pt and Scala Sans 9 pt.
Introductions
Springtime in the valley, blossoms on the vine
Gentle springtime breezes in the rustling pines
Springtime in the valley, winter’s left behind
Time to sow and time to plant for the harvest time.
The Little School in the Valley: 25 Years On
R.A. (Bob) Harvey wrote in his introduction to The Little School In The Valley, published to
celebrate the school centenary in 1982:
Is there any district within 30 minutes of Queen Street which is more beautiful than
the Oratia Valley in spring? Aucklanders know Oratia as the place where you buy apples
from the orchard gate.
Chorus
Oratia my valley, that’s where I belong
Oratia my valley, that’s where I call home
Oratia my valley, valley of my birth
Oratia my valley loveliest on earth.
Summer in the valley, fruits are bursting forth
Slowly ripening in the sun, fruits of the earth
Summer in the valley, harvest getting near
Summer sun is shining down, blue skies overhead.
Autumn in the valley, harvest coming in
Everybody’s working hard, soon be time to sing
Autumn in the valley, nothing’s left to chance
Harvest nearly over, now’s the time to dance.
Winter in the valley, winter work in hand
Rainy days and colder nights, time to rest and stand
Winter in the valley, houses warmed by fire
Time to sit a little while, sup the autumn wine.
Seasons in the valley, thus the years go by
Seasons when we laughed and played, seasons when we cried
Seasons when the vines they thrived, seasons when they died
Seasons in the valley, time goes drifting by.
Words and music by Rudy Sunde; reproduced with kind permission of the author.
Introductions
Seasons in the Valley
Oratia has not escaped changing times and many orchards have disappeared. It is still possible
to buy some locally grown produce but only four orchards still produce fruit commercially.
Much of this is sold to city markets. Packing sheds mostly lie idle or have been converted to
different uses. Land use is changing. Vineyards, plant nurseries, small horticultural ventures and
large houses have replaced the trees. Landholdings are smaller and lend themselves to more
hobby-style uses so what is going on is now
more diverse.
New families have come to live in the area,
bringing new ideas and skills and contributing
to the Oratia lifestyle in interesting and vital
ways, alongside families whose roots go back
many generations and who maintain close
links with the land and community.
Amongst all the changes Oratia District
School continues to play a pivotal role in
the area, providing a caring environment
where children eagerly enjoy all the benefits
of a modern education with the support of
caring and dedicated parents and teachers.
This book is a further reflection of the first
100 memorable years and a look at aspects of
the school, the district and people in the 25
years following the centennial celebrations.
What will the next quarter century bring?
Judy Harré and Pam Thomas
4
The centennial time capsule.
5
From the Principal
It is with pleasure that I introduce this book outlining events of the last 25 years in the life of
Oratia District School.
Oratia has a rich heritage of orcharding and other land uses that very much required a
pioneering spirit.
Over the last 25 years, a wider variety of local use has evolved, including business people,
tradespeople, academics and those involved in the burgeoning technology field. All have one
thing in common, a love of the bush and ranges they live in. These values are reflected in the
children of the area and the values that are important in an evolving school culture.
We often hear how children have changed these days and how things were different when
we, as adults, were young. However, certain traits and values remain and are deliberately fostered
in our Oratia children. A high degree of care, concern and responsibility towards others have
always been part of the ‘way we do things’ at this school.
You will often come across people who say with a smile, ‘I went to Oratia School’. The
smile is indicative that the experience for them was a positive one. Children nowadays are still
conscious that they tread where others have trod.
I hope as you read this book it will evoke happy memories for you of games played, events
held and characters met during your years at school.
That a book for the last 25 years has been produced is due in no small way to the efforts
of the editorial team of Pam Thomas, Judy Harré and Peter Dowling and the skills of the
Vale family at Helio Design and Print. We are indebted to them and all the contributors for
producing a history that will provide an emotional experience as we read.
Cal Greer
Oratia District School Mission Statement
The school and community working together to provide
quality education in the best possible learning environment
so that every child reaches his or her full potential.
6
7
Oratia Remembered
Oratia Remembered
Mr Sharp had imported over 700 varieties of apples as well as other trees over the years. Mr
Sharp also mentioned a large young orchard of Mr T. Parr and the orchard of Mr E.J. Shaw that he
considered ‘a good one’.
Waikomiti Orchards
Messrs Cochran and Son’s Orchard
Their orchard of about seven acres was a further mile and a half towards the ranges on the left.
The orchard was well sheltered by hills and tall pinus insigni. They grew apples and plums with
reported immense crops of both helped with a moderate supply of manure.
Individual plums of the Pond’s seedling variety were credited with weighing up to 5 oz.
This special variety was their favourite.
In an article in the Auckland Weekly News of Saturday 23 March 1889, ‘A Correspondent’
wrote about the orchards then in production in Waikomiti that would now be recognised as
Oratia. He said that the Waikomiti district was well known by name but most people associated
the name with the Waikomiti Cemetery and only some knew it by the fine fruits of all kinds
that went into the Auckland market. He suggested that if more people knew that a pleasant
holiday could be spent visiting the orchards, a local waterfall and bush scenery then many would
take advantage of such an opportunity.
Following are some edited excerpts from his article, though it should be noted that in a
subsequent Weekly News publication one orchardist, Mr H.E. Sharp, refuted much that was
written about his property. Many of the names of these orchardists are commemorated in street
and road names near the sites of their orchards.
Messrs Parr and Sons’ Orchard
The largest orchard in the district was that of Messrs E. Parr and
Sons, about a mile and a half from the station and consisting of
about ten acres growing pears, apples and plums. They had almost
the largest variety of fruit trees in the colony and sent young
trees to all parts of New Zealand. They also had a great variety of
gooseberries that did exceedingly well and a collection had been
put on show in Queen Street. The previous year (1888) they had
purchased a large press and ‘all requisites for the proper working of
their new enterprise’ — the manufacture of cider.
Mr H.E. Sharp’s Orchard
This was situated about half a mile further up the creek from Parr’s (now Knock Na Gree area).
The correspondent mentioned 30-year-old trees, but in his refutation Mr Sharp pointed out
that he had no trees of that age, the property having been bought by his father on 17 March
1866 when it was then growing tea-tree, flax and cabbage trees. Mr Sharp told how he had
been exhibiting at horticultural shows in Auckland for years and at the last show he staged 300
varieties of apples.
He had shown apples at Cambridge, Hamilton, Whangarei, Christchurch and received
certificates and a silver medal at the Wellington Exhibition. He had also received a diploma and
medal from the Colonial and Indian Exhibition in London.
8
Mr C. Hemsley’s Orchard
Most of this orchard adjoined Cochran’s and was about five
acres with plenty of natural shelter. It was a young orchard
full of promise. Mr Hemsley told that in the two acres of
apples round his house he had not found one codlin moth.
His simple remedy, and what he recommended everyone
possessed of an orchard should try, was to run a quantity of
fowls among the trees the whole year round. A good profit
could be made from the eggs, the trees benefited from the
droppings and there was a saving on buying bone dust or other fertiliser!
The view from Mr Hemsley’s veranda was described as really magnificent, taking in
Auckland and suburbs, mounts Eden and Rangitoto, the whole of the Waitemata Harbour up
to Hobsonville, the ranges for miles, and Great Barrier rising above Birkenhead.
Mr Carter’s Orchard
This orchard was of about five acres with trees of different ages, the oldest ten years old and
bearing considerable crops of fruit.The Damson trees were so heavily laden the branches needed
propping up. It was considered the orchard was not sufficiently well protected from westerly
winds, as the correspondent wrote: ‘Fruit trees in New Zealand must be well sheltered from
the time of planting, or they will be nipped and dwarfed by the cold wind’.
Mr Parker’s Orchard
Mr Parker had nearly four acres of fruit trees planted in two parts. The older trees had been
fruiting well for several years and the young orchard was healthy. Mr Parker’s new house was
built on the side of a hill commanding a view of nearly the whole of his land.
Mr Kennerley’s Orchard
Here were about two acres of well-grown young trees about four years old, mostly apples. More
planting was planned.
9
Mr Kelly’s Orchard
Part of this orchard, which was well sheltered and with soil of excellent quality, was planted
alongside a creek where Mr Kelly had run a sawmill some years before. He grew crops of all kinds.
Captain Theet’s Orchard
This was on West Coast Road with young trees beginning to bear well. It lay close to the ranges
and was sheltered by standing bush.
Other Orchards
Other young orchards in the district were those of Messrs Levy,
Summers, Bossomworth, Davison and Seagreen, among others. Mr
Levy’s young orchard was looking remarkably well for the short
time it had been planted and he was growing a great variety of all
kinds of fruit trees, evergreens and flowers for sale.
Many of the orchards had been planted with strawberries and
oranges and lemons were doing well in some. Several new settlers
had taken up land, built houses and were preparing the land for
planting orchards. It was taken as a good sign of prosperity when
some of the older settlers built larger residences.
The correspondent predicted that Waikomiti would, in a few years, become a well-known
place if it increased at the rate it had done during the ‘Great Depression’. Eight or ten new
houses had been built in the last three years
and the houses of cemetery caretakers, the
clearing of scrub and planting of blue gums
had improved the look of the area around the
station. The nearest store was at Avondale, so
there was an opening for an enterprising man
to open a store. Plenty of cheap land was still
available which could be made into profitable
farms and orchards, the correspondent
concluded:
From the New Zealand Herald 4 May 1891
On April 15 a marriage took place which [caused] a large gathering at Mrs Parr’s residence,
Albion Vale, when Miss Parr was married to Mr S.F. Jonkers of Riverhead. Miss Jane Parr was
bridesmaid and Mr [Cherry] was best man. The Rev. C. [Worboys] performed the ceremony.
The cake brought out was passed round, and all persons sat down to wedding breakfast, after
which all went out to the paddock, where all sorts of games were got up, and a luncheon was
spread under the trees, when all sat down. At seven p.m. all went to the school room, which had
been given for the occasion for a ball, the Waikomiti String Band supplying the music assisted by
several guests on the piano. Mr Watt played very nicely on the flute. Shortly after the ball began a
tin band turned up, but when spoken to by Mr H.K. Sharp, chairman of the school committee,
who informed them that the committee had passed a resolution to prosecute anyone that caused
a disturbance inside the school enclosure, or annoyed any party in the school, the tin band went
out and played on the road, but the school being a good way off the road they were not heard
by those inside. After about an hour they went away, the night being rather cold. The dancing
kept up until 5 a. m. when all went away after a pleasant night, all happy and well pleased. Mr
and Mrs Jonkers went away on the 16th for their Riverhead home with the well wishes of a
large number of friends. Mrs Jonkers will be very much missed by the Band of Hope, of which
she was a leading member.
— Own Correspondent
Words in brackets not clear from the original when transcribed by Dave Harré, 2000.
It is situated so near the Auckland market that even with a small price for the fruit
as has been the case this year, a good income can be depended on when an orchard
is full bearing. Fruitgrowers being able to deliver their fruit in Auckland themselves
have the advantage of those being further away, and do not need to send a cheque
as well as their fruit to the auctioneer before they are clear of all expenses as some
unfortunates have been obliged to do this year.
Albion Vale.
10
11
The Cochran Family
My great-grandfather Alexander Cochran came to the district in 1861-62. Vic Glucina once
told me his father had bought his first apple trees from my grandfather. That may have been my
great-grandfather, as his son was also named Alex Cochran. A few trees still exist which were
obviously planted by my great grandfather with several species of oak, pear, and even a nashi,
which was 100 years ahead of its time in New Zealand.
Alexander Cochran junior carried on with this work, but times were changing. No longer
was mixed farming so competitive, as the advent of tractors and increased mechanisation made
flatter land more suitable for orchards, despite the heavier clay soils in much of the lower valley.
The Oratia district in my childhood was a place that seemed to have a presence — somewhat
like a ‘family’ community.The basis of this was surely that people were all working hard (involving
hard physical work) to make a living and raise a family. There was a kinship and common
bond as a result. People helped one another, and honesty and unselfishness were major components of that society. The effects of the Depression were very real and then the Second World
War added to the burdens and difficulties.The common bond was a common purpose, a feeling
that we all belonged to the community and district, and that almost all were hard-working
and practical folk. That was, at that time, absolutely vital. It was also vital to help one another.
People met at functions at the hall, met at the post office on occasions, travelled together at times
on the bus to Glen Eden or Auckland, and Oratia District School was always a focal point.
One aspect of fruit growing has always been having a market and getting the fruit to market;
for us the market was Auckland City and chiefly Turners and Growers’ depot where it was
auctioned. The carriers I remember in the district were Ray Bendall, Jack Harper, Harry Tisch
(who sold out to Roy Gash), Ray Allen, later with Frank Allen (Ray Allen sold out to Jack
Duncan who later merged with Roy Gash), and Reliance Transport. The major fruit carrier
would have to be Mark Marinovich who transported Oratia fruit for decades. Ray Bendall
carted road metal for much of the district and had an early ‘tipping truck’ which was laboriously
hand cranked, with no hydraulics in those days. His work was a major contribution to the roads
of Glen Eden and Oratia.
My family’s association with Oratia School has been a long one. I think that probably my
maternal grandfather Alex Cochran went there for about three months when it first opened.
My mother Mary Ferguson Cochran and my father Fred Whittaker attended, then me, John
Cochran Whittaker, followed by my children, Anne, David, Paul and Bruce. Our grandchildren
Victoria Whittaker and Richard Walters are present pupils in 2007 and Thomas and James
Whittaker are past pupils.
Jack Whittaker, Oratia District School 1939-46
12
Cochran’s packing shed, Carter Road, Oratia. Possibly the oldest fruit shed in Oratia. Photo taken about 1962.
The Malam and Mills Families
At the lower end of Parker Road lies the land that Charles and Charlotte Mills bought when
they emigrated from England in 1893.Their home behind the Oratia Church is still there today,
lived in by Brian Marsich. Their property of approximately 40 acres stretched down towards
Kelly’s Bridge, over Parker Road and across the stream to Carter Road.
The youngest of the Mills, Amelia, completed her education at Oratia District School,
providing the first link to the school that continues with the fifth generation today. Many years
earlier John Malam had arrived from England and set up a brickworks on the Whau Creek.
One of John’s sons, Richard Thomas Malam, married Amelia Mills in 1907 and they lived in
the white house still existing at 24 Parker Road, raising five children — Edith, Connie, Richard
Charles, Cecil and Frank — all of whom attended Oratia School. Richard Thomas served for
many years on the Oratia School Committee and also took a leading part in the formation of
the Oratia rugby club. Richard had joined his father-in-law in the carrier business, first with
horse wagons and later they had the first model ‘T’ Ford. They were the first general carriers in
Oratia, taking fruit and produce into the city and returning with supplies for Waikumete, Oratia
and the West Coast. When their loaded four-horse wagon went down the steep hill to Karekare
they had to chop down a tree at the top to be tied under the wagon and dragged as a brake
below the wagon. The tree was ‘firewood forever’ for the people at the bottom of the hill.
13
Richard Charles worked with Paddy Barry, reconstructing West Coast Road and shifting it
from its course behind the church to its present route sweeping in front of it. A paper road still
remains behind the church. Richard Charles married Olive May Wymer from Avondale and
they lived in Parker Road with their two children, Olive and Richard Lindsay, until Olive May
left the marriage. Richard later married Joyce McIntyre and they had one son, John, who still
lives in Oratia. All the children attended Oratia School.
Richard Lindsay has always been known as Lindsay. He married Barbara Clark from Glen
Eden and they brought up their four children in Parker Road. Richard George, Deborah,Tracey
and Tania were the fourth generation to attend Oratia School.
With his son Richard George, Lindsay now owns and runs a fleet of trucks, mostly used in
earthwork moving. Lindsay still owns ten acres of the original property and has bought their
neighbour’s house and land so that all his children are able to return to the family area.
Richard George has a daughter, Brooklyn, at Oratia School, and Tracey, who married Scott
Murray, has two sons — Mitchell, who is also attending Oratia, with Jacob to come. A short
history of the family was written by Lindsay and included in the time capsule laid down at the
centennial, to be reopened in 2082, and in all probability read by a generation yet to be born.
After the centennial the three Richard Malams, with the help of Ross Latham, placed the
large basalt rock on top of the time capsule.
Lindsay Malam, Oratia District School 1950–58
The Painter Family
Philip Painter bought a house and six acres of land in West Coast Road in 1956. This land had
been part of a Crown Grant of 200 acres to George Gilmer in 1885, with a number of owners
after that until 1909, when W.W. Dumper, a grocer, bought the land for 200 pounds.
Mr Dumper built the original kauri house on the present site and planted the first orchard.
He was known to have the best Mobb’s Royal apples in the city markets.
After the First World War Mr Dumper sold the property to Percy Allen, a carpenter, in 1919.
Percy was a bachelor who continued to live there and grow fruit. When he got older his niece
Ivy Warrington and her family came to live with and keep house for him. Bob and Ivy had two
children, Raewyn and Terry, who attended Oratia School.
In 1949 Ivy and her brother Ray inherited the property. Ivy loved Oratia and bought Ray
out and they planted the peach orchard in what had been the horse paddock, and many Golden
Delicious trees on the other side of the drain. However by 1956 she was finding it difficult to do
the work and so they cut off the piece of land at the bottom of the orchard near Kelly’s Bridge.
Ivy’s brother-in-law, Fred Whittaker, built them a new brick house and they sold the original
house and six acres to Philip Painter. Philip and I have lived there since our marriage.
The house had no street number or letterbox for many years so we picked up our mail at the
Oratia Post Office. We did have a milk box though, just inside the gate where the milkman left
milk and the newspaper each morning.
When we came to Oratia the orchard consisted of a big block of peach trees including
varieties such as Golden Queen, Paragon and Wiggins. There were also Doris and Wright’s
Purple plum trees and lots of apples, an excellent fig tree, two lemons, a Poorman’s orange and
a feijoa hedge. We planted
a range of citrus, as well as
persimmons, Asian pears and
a big block of feijoas.
From the beginning we
decided to grow organically and we had the second
organic orchard in the district. Because of the range
of different trees, we had
organic fruit available most
of the year. At the beginning
we sold it mainly at the gate,
and later we began to supply
health food shops.
The original Painter home, built in 1909.
14
15
Gillian Painter
Vlasich Family
Originally from Pupnat, on the Croatian island of Korcula, Marko and Jaka Vlasich moved to
Oratia in the 1930s from gumdigging in the Far North, with their children, Jack, Olga, George,
Brian and later Mark, who all attended Oratia School. They were followed by Brian and Mara’s
children, Jacqueline, Debbie, Mark and Ivan, and Mark and Maja’s children, Michael and Peter.
Marko planted grapevines on their property (stretching along West Coast Road from Knock
Na Gree to the beginning of Carter Road) and founded Deluxe Wines. Brian went on to
found Orbrossa Wines, and the Orbrossa Vineyard Cellar became a great meeting place for the
community, where everyone had a story to tell.
The latest generation of Vlasichs to be proud Oratia students are Debbie and Joe Coury’s
children, Paul, Josephine, John and Brianna, and Mark and Helen’s daughter Dayna. Mark and
Helen’s other two children, Jessie and Alexander, and Ivan and Adriana’s two children Julianna
and Isobella, will follow over the next few years.
The Vlasich family has
a strong connection to the
land and spirit of Oratia, and
to Oratia District School.
Helen Vlasich
Oratia Today
Oratia Today
Our first four children, Francis, Michael, Lorna and Tristram, went to Glen Eden Kindergarten
and on to Oratia School. Bevis, our youngest, was the only one to go to the new Oratia
Kindergarten. One granddaughter, Emily, now at secondary school, attended Oratia and another,
Ruth, is at the kindergarten.
Philip worked on the school committee and the Oratia ratepayers’ committee. Later he
represented Oratia on the Rural Ratepayers’ Committee. Both of us are original trustees of the
Grace Stark-Brown Picnic Trust.
Oratia District Overview
Over the past 25 years there have been considerable changes to the face of Oratia. Family
orchards have all but disappeared, with smaller home-based businesses increasing in number. It
is now possible to get the help of a life coach, have a range of business services, or buy anything
from orchids to carpets.
We have lost the blossoms and their scent, the sight of tractors towing trailers loaded with
boxes of apples, dogs sitting on the tractors or running alongside, and a large portion of the crop
spraying. We still retain the grape bangers that at first annoy newcomers but are not noticed by
those who have lived here for years.
Some small businesses have gone and others have appeared. Did we fear the closing of the
post office? Well we need not have, as we get a great service seven days a week from Drags’ Dairy.
Drivers can fill up with petrol at the most western pumps before Piha and get full garage service.
No longer need we take a sick pet on a long trip as Oratia has its own veterinary clinic. Home
gardeners can buy locally grown native trees to enhance their sections and do their bit towards
replacing and retaining the bush setting.
Among all the changes Oratia retains its rural qualities. Local events, such as the busy craft
market in the Settlers’ Hall one Sunday a month, the Oratia Ratepayers and Residents Association
picnic at Albion Vale, the annual Stark-Brown picnic and all the school-based activities are
well patronised. Increasingly film companies are using sites for a wide variety of films and
documentaries.
The government has put forward the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Protection Bill in an
attempt to preserve the special characteristics of the ranges and foothills including Oratia.
What Oratia Offers
Carpets and Crafts
At the beginning of Parker Road is the place to buy hand-picked Persian rugs (including kilims
and gabbehs), Afghani bowls, ethnic artefacts, pottery, woodwork and jewellery.
The Quilt Shop
The Sapich Orchard packing shed in Forest Hill Road has been transformed into a colourful
shop for quilters; classes are offered, quilts made to commission, and sewing machines repaired.
Groups of quilters can also arrange for a visit with morning tea provided. An interesting
collection of sewing machines, hat moulds and other sewing craft memorabilia is on display.
An Oratia landscape.
16
17
0800 For Blossoms
Miro’s Orchard packing shed is the
place to go for cut flowers, bouquets,
gift baskets and soft toys.The whole
range of floral work is available,
including flowers for weddings and
corporate functions. Flowers can
be couriered to all parts of New
Zealand.
Izard’s
The packing shed and cool store that
Hayward Izard developed in Parr’s
Cross Road is one of Oratia’s largest
fresh fruit and vegetable shops.
Open all year round, it sells a wide variety of locally grown seasonal fruit and vegetables, other
fruit and vegetables from city markets, general merchandise, and a range of imported delights.
Antiques and Curios
Tara Orchard’s packing shed, also in Parr’s Cross Road, was the hub of the Davis family orchard.
It is now home to ‘Just Plane Interesting’, a time travel experience that takes you back to a New
Zealand that used to be, with rare books, old magazines, war memorabilia, juke boxes, records,
china, furniture, antiques and toys.
Packing Shed Café
In the same area is a café with tables indoors and in the garden under large trees. Paintings,
pottery and handcrafts by local artists are for sale there. Specialty lines such as handmade soaps
and mosaics are sold from smaller rooms beside the café.
Roko Furniture Makers
This team of craftsmen specialise in custom-made furniture, usually to the customer’s design.
They work in a variety of timbers; mahogany, oak, jarrah, walnut. This is another business
utilising a disused apple packing shed on the Dragicevich property in West Coast Road.
Oratia Osteopathic Clinic
This newly opened osteopathic clinic in West Coast Road provides natural methods of massage
and manipulation.
Kenlock Motors
Located on the opposite corner from the school on West Coast and Shaw Roads, Kenlock
Motors provides the last petrol for drivers going to Piha or other West Coast beaches. Its
workshop undertakes mechanical repairs and WOF testing.
Firewood
Allan Sumich in West Coast Road delivers bulk lots of cut firewood and is available for tree
felling and chainsawing.
Brian Hoffmann Ltd
Brian has owned and operated this earthmoving and cartage contracting business for over 30
years, specialising in house sites, swimming pool excavations, footings and drilling.
Oratia Settlers’ Market
The first market was held on Sunday 14 May 2006 at the Oratia Settlers’ Hall and car park
in West Coast Road. Keeping to the second Sunday in the month, it has quickly become a
focal point for people to meet and relax over coffees at outdoor tables and listen to live music.
Some 60 stalls purvey fruit and vegetables, handmade chocolates, garden ornaments, plants, and
work by local artists, crafts people and artisans. A number of stalls are made available free to
community and charity groups.
Nola’s
The Nola family’s well-established fruit and vegetable shop on West Coast Road corner stocks
a wide variety of home orchard produce as well as local fruit and vegetables, imported specialty
lines and general items such as bread and eggs. At the end of Nola’s car park is a small shop
selling fresh fish, smoked fish and shellfish.
West Coast Veterinary Clinic
Dr Zoran Dakic and his team offer a veterinary service catering for the needs of the family pet.
He has an extensively equipped surgery and theatre. A range of cat and dog foods and other
pet requirements are available.
Oratia Settlers’ Market.
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New Year’s Day Picnic
A highlight of the Oratia social calendar over 100 years ago was the picnic held on New Year’s
Day at the Parr family homestead, Albion Vale. After the 1907 picnic no more were held until
2006, when the Oratia Ratepayers and Residents
Association resurrected the tradition. Albion Vale’s
current owners, Barbara and David Harré, hosted
the event for about 100 people beside the Oratia
Folk Museum at the front of the property. David
stoked up his steam engine and cooked large pots of
mussels, new potatoes and his own specialty steamed
puddings. Picnickers brought along their own snacks,
and ate and drank to live music. Russell McAlpine
added to the atmosphere, arriving in his vintage car.
Saskia Prinselaar is wondering how the mussels will taste.
20
Orchards and Orchardists
Longview Orchard: The Botica Family
The Botica family bought their orchard in Carter Road from Fred Sunde in 1943. Frank Botica
went to Oratia District School in the same year. At that time the school had only three teachers.
Frank and Milica’s three children also went to Oratia for all their primary school years.
Frank and Milica bought the property from Frank’s parents in 1966, and have continued
orcharding until the present day.
When the New Zealand Apple and Pear Board closed down its office depot and cool stores
in Henderson in the mid-1990s no more pip fruit was exported from Henderson.This, plus the
deregulation of the pip-fruit industry, changed the circumstances of many Oratia orchardists,
making fruit-growing economically unviable.
Luckily Longview Orchard was able to supply the domestic market, giving the family the ability
to continue orcharding until now. Frank and Milica are presently growing plums, apples and pears.
Slow and Steamy
In March 2007 the Going West Trust, which supports the annual Going West Books and Writers
Festival, held the first of what is hoped to become an annual event. Hosted by Murray and
Penny Firth at Firlong Nurseries in Carter Road, in the tradition of the Going West Steam
Train, it featured wine and words, food and song.Well-known poets, novelists, chefs, singers and
a jazz band entertained.
Deans’ Orchard: Holdens Road
This orchard has been continuously in the family since it was established in 1901 by the
grandfather of the present owners, Louis and Grant Dean. Their parents had worked it until
the late 1960s or 1970s. Originally the 100-acre property grew many varieties of apples, pears,
peaches and plums.Warmer weather changes around 1975 made conditions for growing peaches
and nectarines difficult and many of these were phased out.
Slow and Steamy as we go.
A homage to apple orchards on Parrs Cross Road.
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Until the Apple and Pear Board opened in
1948, orchards had been family businesses
where everyone in the family, including the
children, worked and no one got paid. The
Apple and Pear Board was exporting mainly
to Britain with a guaranteed price. When
Britain joined the Common Market in the
late 1960s other markets had to be found.
Unfortunately the quality and varieties being
produced did not meet the needs of the new
markets and many of the next generation
sold up family orchards and moved out.
The Deans have organised their own apple
export to Germany, and engaged in technical
work for the Ministry of Agriculture and
Fisheries (MAF).
M. Dragicevich and Sons:
West Coast Road
Mate is the third generation of his family to
run the orchard since his grandfather and his
three sons, George, Mile and Jack, bought the
property from Louvre Marinovich in 1953.
As a youngster Mate worked alongside his
father, learning at first hand all the aspects of
running an orchard. He now grows plums,
apples and pears and is developing an area of table grapes. In the past the fruit had been taken
into Turners and Growers market but with the building of a cool store and packing shed all the
fruit is sold from an on-site shop, run by his mother Karmela from before Christmas until all
the fruit is sold around July.
Adjacent to the fruit shed is ‘Drags’ Dairy’, which opened in 1961 and was run by Mate’s
Uncle Jack. Jack would deliver orders to all parts of Oratia. Near the road by the post box is
a memorial seat to Jack, put there by his friends and customers. At present the shop is leased
out and since the closure of the Oratia Post Office it is also a Post Shop.
22
Cyril Nola
Cyril came to New Zealand as a 15-year-old in 1925 and went gum-digging near Dargaville.
Later he worked on dairy farms, followed by a time with the Ministry of Works in the King
Country. When he came to Oratia he worked on the Montgomery orchard in Seymour Road.
He met and married Phyllis Sunde. Cyril bought the family property on the corner of West
Coast and Glengarry Roads in 1934. His first priority was to build a house. All the land needed
clearing so, as most of the earlier orchardists did, he found work outside the home to bring in
money while breaking in the land. For seven years he cycled each day to the brickworks in
New Lynn. In the evenings and weekends he worked on the property. He bought his first cow
for six pounds, later adding another three or four. A henhouse and 200 hens, which grew to a
flock of 2000, followed. Vegetables were grown and the orchard developed. The shop premises
have been expanded over time.
In March 2007 Cyril celebrated his 97th birthday. An extremely fit man who has never
smoked or drunk alcohol and has always looked after his health, he still walks early each day
at Parr’s Park. In earlier years Cyril was a familiar sight running long distances up West Coast
Road, along the Scenic Drive and home via Henderson Valley Road. Until his mid-eighties his
birthday was celebrated with a run to Piha.
Nurseries
Oratia Native Plant Nursery
As a travel agent for six years I saw enough of New Zealand, and the world, to know that Oratia
is a better place than most in which to live one’s life. Deciding conservation of the natural
environment to be the most useful and urgent thing I could do, I started growing native plants
as a hobby. It soon became apparent that there was a need for a regular supply of native plants
for enthusiasts to purchase, leading to the start of Oratia Native Plant Nursery.
The commercial nursery evolved and moved to the main West Coast Road site in 1990. It has
continued to grow with a recent expansion to an additional site in Henderson Valley.With more
than 20 staff, the nursery is providing eco-sourced plants for the whole Auckland region and is
now specialising in many of New Zealand’s rarest and most endangered plants.
The battle against the weeds of Oratia has scarcely begun but the nursery has the stock to
help redress the balance in favour of native plants.
Geoff Davidson, Oratia District School 1952-60
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Orchid Plants and Flowers
In 1980 Helmer and Janice Larsen bought property from Ces Malam at the lower end of Parker
Road and moved their orchid-growing business from Titirangi to Oratia. They developed the
property and a business exporting orchids to prime markets in Japan and the United States of
America, especially New York.
A second tier of the business is the sale of potted plants, and a third side is the laboratory
development of orchid tissue culture, which is exported worldwide.Their son Lars, who employs
up to eight people on average during the year, carries this out.
Their second son, Fleming, is also involved in the family business.
In the school’s centennial year, 1982, they propagated an orchid named ‘Oratia Pioneer’.
Landsendt
Dick and Annemarie Endt bought this property from the Davidson family in 1962, and it has
evolved from an orchard to what is now a unique subtropical garden, run by their daughter
Carolyn and husband Anthony.
The garden is a refuge for rare plants that were collected from South America by Dick and
Annemarie. From the 1960s to 1980s New Zealand was a market leader in horticulture, and
Oratia was the biggest fruit-growing area in the country. Dick was part of a pioneering group of
people in search of new crops.The Andes in South America is the fruit bowl of the world, so why
not try some of their crops in Oratia, New Zealand’s fruit bowl? Landsendt trialled hundreds of
different fruit crops, and during his overseas visits Dick also fell in love with other plants such as
palms. Fifteen years on, the orchard is now tamed into an amazing subtropical garden with many
plants so rare they have refugee status. Their natural habitat is getting destroyed at an alarming
rate so Landsendt is a gene bank.
Carolyn Melling-Endt
Kellydale Nursery
We started our small specialist nursery 30 years ago, growing mainly rock garden, alpine and
groundcover plants, supplying several Auckland garden centres.
A lot of bulb seed was imported from South Africa, sending us off at a tangent, and in the end
our rare and unusual bulbs became our main specialty. For several years we supplied Winstone
Garden Centre in Remuera with dry bulbs, but eventually decided to go mail order only.
The business has grown steadily and our catalogue for 2008 will be our 28th.
Bulbs are grown in pots or planter bags, which makes keeping them separate so much easier.
On our website we have photographs of many of the plants we grow and our current catalogue
has 143 different items in it.
Some customers who started buying from us 28 years ago continue to do so.
Tony and Jenny Palmer
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Winegrowers
Artisan Wines
The Sunde family has lived in Oratia for generations and been long-time residents in Shaw
Road. Rex Sunde’s wife Maria also has a long family association with the area, visiting from
Avondale to help pick apples in an aunt’s orchard where she met the Sunde children.
Rex planted his Shaw Road vineyard in 1995 and named it Fantail Island after the name his
children gave to a small island in the Kaurimu Stream where they played. As with many locals,
his early association with winemaking was from grandparents and parents who first made wine
for the family and later for domestic sale.
After gaining a horticulture degree with a specialisation in viticulture from Massey University,
Rex settled at Nobilo’s as viticulturist for eight years. During this time he started developing
the Artisan label.
Rex and Maria recently bought land at Tara Orchards on Parrs Cross Road, and planted
syrah, viognier and pinot gris vines. It will retain the name Tara Vineyard. Local folk can now
taste and purchase wine at the winery. In 2007 a restaurant is being established and there are
plans to host the Waitakere Farmers’ Market on the property.
Rewa’s Classic Reds
Rewa Harré chose three classic Bordeaux varieties — cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet
franc — to plant his hectare of grapes in 1990. The wine connection runs strongly in Rewa’s
family, with Harré vineyards originally in Lincoln Road.
Rewa’s grapes flower and set in December and the temperature at flowering time is an
important determination of how bountiful the crop will be.With the help of family and friends
the grapes are picked late in the season, often about 20 April. The crushing and fermentation is
done in a picturesque stone cellar Rewa built to maintain the necessary constant temperature.
With yield increasing each year, Rewa hopes to see his hobby develop into a small
commercial venture.
Sapich Brothers
The Sapich family, orchard and vineyard have been a part of Oratia since 1932, when about 84
acres were bought in Forest Hill Road. Originally a dairy herd was established. Gradually 2000
citrus trees, lemons of the Lisbon and Meyer varieties and grapefruit trees replaced the herd.
There were vines to make wine for the family. Later apples, pears and plums replaced the citrus,
and in turn these were replaced with grapes.
Since the 1950s members of the family have enjoyed developing their wines and fortified
wines. Many winemakers had their ‘signature’ drinks, and Sapich’s Purple Death is more
memorable than most. Steve still makes it to the same secret recipe. A more benign-sounding
and tasting wine is their Piha Sunset.
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The change in excise tax a few years ago caused a downturn in sales of sherry and port and
precipitated significant changes in the grape varieties planted. In 2007 Sapichs began harvesting
their new classical grape varieties, syrah (shiraz), pinot gris, semillon and sauvignon blanc, which
were planted in 2004-05.
Roy Sunde
Roy is an Oratia vine grower with a long background of family orcharding in the area. He
still grows apples, pears and plums on his properties in Shaw and West Coast Roads, and has
recently diversified into grapes, which are sent to Artisan Wines and bottled under their label.
A chardonnay won a bronze medal in the Air New Zealand Wine Awards. A new sight is the
use of nylon netting to protect the vines from birds, and this is backed up with bangers and the
odd shotgun blast.
Another thing Roy has in common with other growers is the help of his family. His wife,
Janelle, and sons, Stefan and Anton, are on hand to help with jobs like thinning, leaf plucking
and picking. Roy gives credit to his cousin Rex, from whom he has learnt a great deal, and
while most of the crop will continue to be processed by Rex under the Artisan label, Roy is
keen to begin production under his own Kauri Ridge label.
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Landmark Wines
Steve Vitasovich arrived from Croatia in 1928 and joined many others in Northland, working
in the gumfields earning money to purchase property. In 1937 he began his vineyard and fruit
orchard on the land he bought in South Road, Henderson, now known as Bruce McLaren
Road. He then went back to his homeland and married Dobra, and they had three children,
Zlatomir, Zora and Mille, who attended Oratia District School in the 1950s and 1960s.
With the grapes he began producing wine under the Public Wines label. For many years the
estate produced traditional fortified wines, moving to handcrafted wines from the mid-1980s.
Today Landmark Estate is owned and operated by Zlatomir and Zora Vitasovich.
Since 1996 they have released wines under their own labels: Earls (Reserve label), Landmark
Estate (Premium), Albatross Point and Southridge labels for selected table wines, and Glen Hills
for the range of selected fortified wines. They continue to harvest ten acres of grapes at their
Henderson property and another ten acres in Kumeu, and also source premium grapes from
Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough.
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Oratia Folk Museum: Oratia History
The Oratia Museum sits in the foothills of the
Waitakere Ranges — Te Wao nui o Tiriwa (The
Great Forest of Tiriwa). Te Kawerau a Maki
occupied this region for many centuries. One of
their settlements was the small Oratia Pa in the
Oratia Valley.
Rapid and widespread change came with
the arrival of people from Europe. The early
nineteenth century saw the introduction of
musket warfare that took a heavy toll of the
Kawerau people. Further, by the 1850s the Crown
had purchased much of the Waitakere region.
Settlement by Europeans, the logging of timber
and clearances for mixed farming caused a dramatic change to both the social and physical
landscape. The Oratia Museum — a small settler cottage — reminds us of that time.
The cottage was built between 1855-70 at the upper end of Parker Road (number 125).
Documents show Terence Donnelly as the first owner. An Irishman, he arrived in New Zealand
as part of the 58th British Regiment and saw action in the New Zealand Wars.
In 1855 he bought 91 acres in Parker Road and another 81-acre block in Waiatarua. He lived
and farmed in Oratia until his death on 16 November 1889.
In the late 1880s the Moorehead brothers lived in the cottage. Both died in the 1930s, when
the cottage passed to their nieces. Around 1945 a nephew, Robert Blackbourne, and his family
moved into the cottage.
In the 1950s Mr Sutherland bought the cottage. Finding it too small, he had a larger house
moved on site. The cottage was offered as fire brigade practice, but local residents asked that it
be saved so Mr Sutherland gave it to the community.
Margery Harré offered the use of a piece of road frontage near Albion Vale, a registered
historic building on West Coast Road. Mr Winslow moved the cottage for a token 30 pounds
and the Izards, a pioneer family, paid all resiting costs. The Oratia community raised funds
through evenings of poetry, music and wine, and many gave generously of their time to help
with restoration work. Students of Henderson High School helped fix new kauri shingles on
the roof.
In 2004, 27 years later, a generous grant from the Waitakere Licensing Trust allowed the
shingle roof to be renewed, the stove restored and the outside painted.
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The cottage is built of kauri, felled and sawn at a local mill. It is a rectangular structure with a
steep pitched roof of wooden shingles referred to as a ‘gabled box cottage’.
On either side of the central front door are two front rooms with double-hung, multi-paned
windows. One room is the main bedroom and the other is the parlour. The ceilings of these
rooms retain their original finish of kauri gum varnish (shellac).
At the back of the cottage a room runs full length, the kitchen at one end and the scullery
at the other. A narrow, steep staircase leads from the scullery to the two attic bedrooms, having
a window either end.
The picket fence that is now surrounding the cottage is from the demolished 1873
Avondale Hotel.
The School and the Museum
Children from Oratia and other local schools make good use of the museum to experience and
relive the past. With the help of museum volunteers they cook scones in the coal range, and
wonder at the kitchen utensils and the lack of modern conveniences. They climb the stairs and
see the iron bedsteads, the hooked rugs, the candlesticks and the toys of the day. Outside there
are the wash tubs, the ‘long-drop’, and the garden with heritage herbs and plants to learn about.
29
The School since 1982
The School since 1982
The Centennial Celebrations
Planning for the centennial celebrations to be held from 22-24 October 1982 was begun in
March 1980. A committee was formed with sub committees in charge of finance, publicity,
planning and programming. A registration fee of $5 was set and letters sent to anyone who had
had connections with the school.
Early fundraising was through the sale of centenary promotion T-shirts and hats. Photographs
and articles were published in the Western Leader and a large sign erected near the school house.
Education Board files and early school records were explored for historical information.
The weekend was planned around an open day at the school on Friday, two performances
of a pageant written by Peppi Slater and performed by pupils, a parade of floats and evening
social events.
30
The official ceremony on Saturday afternoon was attended by several local mayors, members of
parliament, Education Board officials, many ex pupils, teachers, and school committee members.
Following the opening of the new pool, guests were entertained with items from the pupils.
The Centenary Ball on Saturday night was a great success with music supplied by ex pupil
Peter Gratton and his band, P.G. and the Hot Tips. A short thanksgiving service at the school on
Sunday was followed by a bus tour of the district and the weekend concluded with the laying
of the time capsule.
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Memories of School and the Centennial
The Original School Building
Debbie Wood (Malam) 1977-82 and Tracey Murray (Malam) 1979-85
Debbie was in Standard 4 (Year 6) in centennial year. She remembers Mrs Rosandich teaching
her class the kola, which they danced at the celebration weekend.
On the Friday before the weekend the school recreated 1882.The children dressed in clothes
from the 1880s and carried their books tied in a parcel with a ribbon around them. Nobody
brought school bags.
Representing their fourth-generation families, Debbie and Bruce Whittaker rode in a horse
and buggy in the float parade from Glen Eden on Saturday. Special stories were written to be
included in the time capsule.
Tracey was in J3 (Year 3) and remembers the excitement. Tracey felt the involvement her
parents and grandparents had with the school made it all the more special. Her family talked
about her great-grandmother being part of the 75th Anniversary, her father was responsible for
the rock covering the time capsule, and both he and her grandfather were very involved in other
ways, which gave her a feeling of inclusion.
Both sisters remember the 125th Anniversary being mentioned and they found it difficult to
imagine themselves in 2007. Both are now parents, with Tracey’s son Mitchell attending Oratia
School and Tracey a member of the 125th planning committee.
Rusty Gash: School Committee member
Rusty Gash was a member of the Oratia School Committee for many years. He was on the
centennial committee and is on the 125th planning committee.As an architect he was responsible
for the work done in resiting and redesigning the original school building. He recalls it well:
The principal pays Mrs Clarke’s group a visit during the centennial celebrations.
The original school building.
During the latter years of the 1950s and early 1960s the School Committee under the
chairmanship of Paul Swinburn made the decision to convert the original classroom
block into an assembly hall and library. It was moved from its centrally placed site facing
West Coast Road to the southern boundary facing north. Internal partitions were
removed and laminated beams utilised to support the roof structure, and a covered entry
was added. The character of the building was fully retained. George Greenaway was the
principal at the time.
Sadly the building was destroyed by arson one Sunday afternoon. At the time of the
destruction I was taking fruit to the market on our truck. Flames were coming out the
windows as the fire spread rapidly through the old kauri timber structure. The heat was
so intense it scorched the Dragicevich house over the adjacent fence. The fire brigade
could do nothing to save a delightful old building with a lot of early pioneer history
within its walls.
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The Last School Committee Chairman’s Report
20 April 1989
The last meeting of this Oratia School Committee, so perhaps time for reflection and
recollection.
One of the best things about this committee, I feel, is that you have all been prepared to
debate or discuss all matters raised. This has enabled us to reach what I believe has been a
balanced opinion and therefore, good, for the school.
Although relatively uneventful our term in office has been interspersed with some interesting
highlights, e.g., inspecting and cleaning toilets during the Caretakers/Cleaners strike to keep
the school open and succeeding!!!. Caretaker problems, Teacher strikes and the terrible decision
to actually close the school for a day.
On a more positive note, we had some good interaction with teachers and parents, Dinners,
Wine and Cheese evenings etc and also a very successful Halloween Dance with the Oratia
Residents and Ratepayers Assoc. Latterly the Stark Brown Picnic, a great community get
together which must be continued. All good for the community spirit.
The opportunity to host the Headmaster and Support Group of Henderson High School at
a very well attended meeting was an excellent example of a School Committee operating in
the interests of the community, giving parents the opportunity to make an informed decision
on their children’s futures.
On the equipment and management side of things, we have been instrumental in the
purchase of extra computers and the introduction of a subsidy for the Teaching staff involved
in relevant study courses. Working bees have taken care of the painting of the pool (finally),
the reintroduction of the Adventure playground structure on the lower field, the enhancement
of my favourite cherry tree outside the dental block, the wonderful paintings on the junior
playground (thanks to Graeme Gash), and recently the concrete pads for the paper bins.
The potentially disastrous arson prior to Christmas, highlighted incredible support from the
Committee, Staff and community and I believe turned into a real positive for our borderline
‘rural’ school.
I would like to thank the Principal and his Deputy (and predecessor) for their positive
attitude in all dealings. It is really appreciated.
I would also like to thank the whole Committee whose contribution has made this job so
rewarding. I endorse Judy Parker’s suggestion that we should keep in touch socially.
Mention should be made of the contribution of Warren Wheeler our Treasurer, who departed
mid term and the able manner in which Alex Smillie took up the reins. This job does take up a
lot of time and full marks to Alex for reorganising the system.
Dave, Len, Chris, Murielle, Lynn, Judy, Mike, Alex, Joe and Colin thank you.
We leave behind 140 years of tradition, but upon seeing the candidates for the new Board of
Trustees, I am very confident that the Administration of the Oratia District School will once
again be in very capable hands.
Kind regards to you all,
Tomorrows’ Schools and the Board of Trustees
The year 1989 heralded major changes to New Zealand’s education system — in the form of
Tomorrows’ Schools, a major initiative to devolve power and encourage the self-management
of schools.
Boards of Trustees replaced school committees, and in the process became governors, setting
individual school policy, employing staff and taking responsibility for funding expenditure. The
opportunity to be a bulk-funded school allowed Boards of Trustees (BOTs) to control staffing
issues as well. This devolution of educational power allowed for considerable autonomy and
individuality, meaning the old notion of ‘all schools are similar’ was broken.
Since the late 1990s, the process of recentralisation has occurred, although not to the extent
of pre-1989.
The first Oratia School Board of Trustees (OSBOT) was elected at the end of April 1989 and
held its first meeting on 25 May 1989. Schools were expected to prepare a Charter of Objectives
that would be unique to each school and reflect specific local educational needs. Cultural and
social values in the district, employment needs and opportunities, and a host of factors that gave
any community its unique identity were to be taken into consideration. Consultation with
parents and community was essential and to facilitate this process a Community Consultation
Committee was formed.
The Education Review Office (ERO) was set up to take the place of the Inspectors of
Schools. A team visits every third year to look at aspects of the curriculum and management.
Any recommendations made must be actioned by the school. A copy of the report is always
available at the school and on the Ministry website.
Succeeding boards have governed Oratia District School with dedication, supported by a
strong staff. A list of board members is included in the appendix. The board has had to consider
issues like revision of the school charter and policy, setting the strategic direction of the school,
ensuring the school complies with National Administration Guidelines, and managing enrolment
and zoning questions. The preservation of Lone Kauri School in Karekare has required close
consultation with the community.
Ian McCallum
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35
The Oratia School Board
Bridget Brent, First Chair (1989)
When the Oratia School Board of Trustees held its first meeting on 25 May 1989 we found
ourselves heading down an uncharted path. Over the next year we experienced the difficulties
of trying to meet our new responsibilities despite a lack of information, tonnes of paper and
literature, and mostly negative media coverage.
The principal had the hardest job, as his whole role had been more or less turned inside out.
The key to making Tomorrow’s Schools work was, and remains, that boards and principals have
a clear idea of the difference between management (principal and staff roles) and governance
(the role of the board). Together the principal and the Board, as manager and governor respectively, could work to provide the best possible learning environment for the children. I would
like to think that together we set up an enduring culture for future boards.
In that first year there was so much required of us that seemed to have little to do with our
children in the classrooms, such as the insurance budget, asset register, job descriptions and
performance agreements. Understanding our role as an employer, and making staff appointments
were important responsibilities.
Writing the charter that set Oratia apart from every other school and defined our individuality
was a huge job in that first year.
I have wonderful memories of those years and of my association with the school as a member
of the Board, as a teacher, and most importantly as a parent.
Kubi Witten-Hannah, Board Member (1989-98), Chair (1990-99)
I first went to Oratia School in 1975 as a student teacher. Junior School was my special interest
so I was delighted to have Gloria Whiting as my associate teacher.
I learnt a lot from Gloria and 30 years on still remember her as an inspiration to my teaching.
I did not get on quite so well with the Headmaster, Mr Still, who admonished me for wearing
sandals without long socks. Always up for a challenge I found some rather sparkly socks which,
together with a pair of brown walk-shorts and a purple polo shirt met his dress code — sort of.
I returned to Oratia as a teacher in 1979, taking a Standard Three (Year 5) class. Halfway
through the year I moved into secondary teaching for more secure employment.
In 1989 I renewed my association with Oratia when I was elected onto the Board of Trustees.
In the first year much of my attention was focused on the establishment of the School Trustees
Association. Bridget stepped down from the chair’s role a year later and I was chosen to succeed
her — a bit of a surprise because my children were at Lone Kauri, not the main school. It was a
great board to lead and I learnt a lot from them, especially from Steve and Jocelyn who taught
me not to be afraid of budgets and accounts.
From the beginning I believed that the most important role of the board was to pick good
staff then support them in carrying out their roles. The hardest thing about appointing staff
wasn’t finding good staff; it was not appointing other staff who we knew were also good. The
most challenging appointment was of a principal who would be keen to build on what was
already a great school.
Like all other people involved with the project, I feel special pride in the hall, which is not
only functional but really embodies the spirit and atmosphere of the school.
Student, teacher, bus driver, parent, board member and chair; I have enjoyed every role and
now I enjoy being an old relic brought along on special occasions like the annual prizegiving
where I get to present the rather special trophy for the best librarian which was crafted by my
dear friend, the late John Green.
John Sumich, Board Member (1992-2001), Chair (1999-2001)
‘Never volunteer,’ says John, who made a suggestion to the then Board of how to develop the
Shaw Road corner where the headmaster’s house had been, and ended up on the BOT for 11
years, the last three as chair. He found that the initial BOT members set up fantastic protocols
that subsequent members benefited from. Appointing the new principal and tackling the issue
of zoning were important highlights of his time on the Board. He was on the disciplinary subcommittee but never had any issues to deal with, which he saw as a testament to the ethos and
the running of the school.
John’s father, Miro Sumich, was a member of the School Committee for 17 years and has
been a member of both the Centennial and the 125th celebration committees.
The comemorative book that is on display at the school hall.
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37
Junior School 2007
School Photographs 2007
Liza Brown, Board Member (1998-2007), Chair (2001-2007)
I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Oratia School Board of Trustees. Previous boards had
established effective procedures and protocols, and all the board members brought a wide variety
of skills, experiences, expertise and enthusiasm. This made the job of chairperson a pleasure.
A sound working relationship, built on trust and respect between myself and the principal,
Cal Greer, enabled clear communication, an understanding of the roles between governance
and management, and where necessary, joint problem-solving.
Having previously been an employee at the school, and a teacher aide with children with
special needs from 1995-98, I had an insider’s view of the school and had established relationships
with many of the staff.
During my tenure on the Board, the school received three extremely positive Educational
Review Office (ERO) reports, which indicated that the school was continuing to develop its
already high standard.
I enjoyed, along with many parents, the many junior Christmas carols, productions, talent
nights, country fairs, flower show days and senior prizegivings.
I would like to thank the following people with whom I shared a role on the Board at some
point over the last nine years: John Sumich, Helen Penman, Jan Brown, Ingrid O’Hanlon,
Ian Lewington, Shirley Campbell, Ross Davenport, Greg Fletcher, Nick de Zoete and Peter
Dowling, and staff representatives Lyn Harron and Sarah Harris.
Peter Dowling, Board Member (2004-present), Chair (2007-present)
In my short time on the board, I have been impressed by the work of the members, the
professionalism of the staff, and the input of the parent community and the school’s many
supporters. The 2005 ERO Report was a firm validation of the high standards that Cal Greer
and his team bring to Oratia District School.
I thank previous boards, school committees and PTAs for their work and the support they
have given to Oratia staff. This is a reflection of their desire to provide the very best learning
environment for our children. The new Board elected in April this year looks forward to
meeting with present and past pupils, staff, parents and the wider community at the 125th
Jubilee (and at any time). From your board, our warm wishes in celebrating 125 years of the
little school in the valley.
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39
Senior School 2007
Middle School 2007
School Business
School Business
The Roll and Zone
The school roll gradually grew during the 1980s with various experiments with roll closures.
Oratia has had a Ministry sanctioned and defined zone since 1992 to control growth.Within
that time the school has only opened its roll to out-of-zone enrolments on three occasions
for very short periods. The school’s roll has therefore remained stable over this period with a
finishing roll each year of between 540 and 570.
A clause (called the Historic Clause) allows children who have two prior generations of
family attendance to come to the school, even if they live out of zone.This has allowed some of
our historic families to continue their involvement with the school.
The question of retaining our Year 6 children for their Year 7 and 8 (Form 1 and 2) has been
raised a number of times, but a lack of space for additional buildings has always made this an
unworkable option.
One change was the establishment of vertical grouping in the junior area in 1991. For
many years the school has enrolled between
80 and 90 new entrants every year, and this
system removed the need for our youngest
children to have multiple moves over their
first years of schooling. New Entrant school
visits one month before turning five were
also introduced at this time.
The year 1993 saw the introduction of
new families talks, where parents of children
new to Oratia are able to hear about the
school and to ask questions. These continue
today, with one meeting a term.
Buses
Buses are synonymous with our school. Ritchies has been the main provider over the last 25
years with up to four runs operating at any one time.
Up to 1992 pre-schoolers from Piha used the school bus with their older brothers and sisters
to get to kindergarten. However, a ruling was made that this could continue only if there was
room for one adult and four pre-schoolers.
The bus through the Sunvue area ceased about 1994 because this area became ‘out of zone’
in 1992 and consequently numbers dropped. A TV-mast bus began in the mid-1990s, which
allowed the Piha bus to go directly to the beach.
Around that time, the school took on direct resourcing of funds for transport. This gave us
more control over bus routes and allowed the buses to carry children who might otherwise not
be eligible. Local roads, with no footpaths, motivated the board to provide a system that ensured
safe transport for these pupils.
Reflecting on buses over this period evokes memories of noise, bus monitors, feeling sick,
children getting on to buses when they shouldn’t, not getting on when they should, missing
their stop, falling asleep, the odd accident and breakdown, late buses, and the old buses belching
diesel as they crawled up the hills. Happily, some improvement in the quality of buses has
occurred over the last few years.
Enjoying buddy reading in the sunshine.
Out of School Care
Out of School Care started in 1993 in response to a number of requests from parents for this
type of facility. An establishment group organised its introduction and operates outside the
school administration. Positive support is given by the school and where possible building
amenities are provided.
Up to 50 children a day are catered for and as from the early 2000s a morning care programme
has been in operation.
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‘We will behave in the “Oratia way” on our trip home.’
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The Library
Shows
The present library had its beginnings in 1991 in a small prefab on the site of the present hall.
The first of many book festivals was held and for the first time junior children were allowed to
borrow books.
Lunchtime openings began in 1993. The School Library Service and the Waitakere Libraries
worked with the school and weekly visits from the mobile library began.Year 3 pupils produced
a special mural that was displayed at Government House for a visiting illustrator, Lyn Kriegler.
She admired it so much she asked to keep it.
A major shift from the prefab to the
present site was made in 1996. Twice floods
damaged books, but these were replaced.
By 1997 the library was fully automated
and a first stocktake was done. The
atmosphere was enhanced with window seats,
curtains, cushions, couches, a large wooden
outdoor area and a distinctive doorway.
Bright displays from classes added colour and
interest.The library had become a part of the
classroom programme with school-based and
nationwide book fairs and weeks. Book character parades involved pupils and staff dressing up,
and visits by authors Joy Cowley and Margaret Mahy were well received.
Grants from the PTA and the South Auckland Trust have helped greatly in keeping
the supply of books updated and the library a bright, convenient and comfortable place.
The student librarian scheme has developed and librarians work towards bronze, silver and gold
certificates.
Cath Dye, teacher and librarian, worked
hard for many years until her retirement to
bring the library up to a high standard. This
work has been continued by Lisa Lilley.
Over the last 23 years the library and
school have had tremendous support from
Dorothy Evans. As the library assistant
Dorothy does the accessioning of new books
and a multitude of tasks that ensure the
library’s smooth operation.
Pet Shows
Pet shows have always been a favourite. Pets could be shown to friends and prizes awarded for
the many different attributes of well-loved cats, dogs, birds, goats, sheep and horses.
One year the flight of some of the pets led to consternation.These escapes are now remembered
as humorous events, especially as these family members eventually managed to get back home.
A ‘pet rock’ show replaced animals one year. Maybe it’s time for a pet show again!
Enjoying our library.
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Flower Shows
Flower shows continue to be a tradition. Local community people and past teachers are happy
to give their time to judge the various categories.This is always a busy day with pupils preparing
their exhibits, morning tea for the judges before they begin their tasks, pupil and teacher viewing
of exhibits after lunch, and viewing for parents until 7:30 p.m. The year 2000 brought about
a change with our new hall being able to hold all exhibits. Senior pupils may now choose to
exhibit one category as well as participating in their class art exhibit. Best of all, no more worries
about wet days! Sand saucers, buttonholes, floral clocks and vegetable creations together with
themes such as the millennium year, environmental circles and the America’s Cup continue to
give great pleasure to pupils and their families. Participation of the kindergarten children also
adds to the flower show’s traditional popularity.
Much thought going into exhibits.
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Children’s calendar art for sale.
Over the past few years children’s calendar art has been displayed at the flower show and,
together with the sale of plants, Devonshire teas and a sausage sizzle, has helped to raise funds
for the school.
Productions, Talent Concerts and the Choir
Over the last 25 years music has flourished at Oratia School, with recorder groups, children
learning different instruments, a school orchestra and a choir trained each year for a performance
at the local music festival.
The junior school works hard to present a Christmas Concert every year. Originally it was
held outside Rooms 6 and 7 (remember the donkeys!), then in the natural amphitheatre outside
Rooms 10 and 11 where the weather once completely beat us. Now we have the option of
using our new hall.
Another popular event is the biennial school production that involvesYear 4-6 pupils. Originally
productions were presented to parents and families who were crammed into the Settlers’ Hall.
After the new hall was built, productions were able to be more elaborate and easily managed,
with room for more pupils to participate.
There must be many fond memories for past pupils, parents, teachers and friends of Charlie
and the Chocolate Factory (1981), James and the Giant Peach (1983), Rats (1989), Wizard of Oz
(1990), Peter Pan (1992), Snow White (1993), Pied Piper (1995), Hansel and Gretel (1998),
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Ali Baba (1999), Cats of Ponsonby (2001), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dream Coat (2003),
and Young Hercules (2005).
These productions and the alternate talent concerts have encouraged pupils to use and
develop skills of singing, acting, dance, stage management, presentation and music, under the
guidance of a number of talented and dedicated teachers and parents — who also ensured that
the backdrops, lighting, costumes, practice, music and choreography all met high standards. The
talent concerts allow pupils to share skills that they have learned outside school.Whether a fiveyear old playing the violin, girls showing off their dancing skills or boys doing martial arts, there
has been an array of fine talents. Pupils may also remember their teachers taking part in items
such as ‘Aunty Alice Gave Us This’, ‘Sadie the Cleaning Lady’, ‘YMCA’ and ‘Another Brick in
the Wall’ (We Don’t Need No Education).
Our school choirs have performed at school, competitions and at festivals. They have visited
places such as the Oratia Church, and schools in New Lynn, Glen Eden and Henderson Valley.
Choirs have also taken part in annual School Music festivals and sung at the Suzanne Prentice
World Vision Concert.
The Arts
Along with drama, music and dance appreciation and skills, the school has fostered the arts by
trips outside of the school and visits from talented people.
An African drummer, Eddie Quanseh, was very impressive and encouraged drumming for
many pupils. A Bruce McLaren Intermediate harmony group performed for us, and a more
recent musical experience was the big band from Havelock North High School. What an
incredible performance — an inspiration for the pupils!
In 1983 the cast of James and the Giant Peach were lucky to visit the Mercury Theatre, and
pupils attended the Auckland Dance Festival in 2003.
We also had visits from the Creative Puppet Theatre, the Peter and The Wolf Puppet Theatre,
and The Class Act Opera Company performed The Magic Flute.
Following a visit by the New Wave Folk Dancers the junior school presented their version
of folk dancing to the senior school and parents. A smaller group performed for the 150-year
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celebrations of Henderson in 1994. A group of children visited the New Zealand Ballet in 1990.
Two years later creative dance was introduced to all children in a week-long programme that
was held in classes.
Storytellers have brought enjoyment and a love of books to students. Among these have been
The Aunties, Bringwonder, Aim Book Week characters such as Clifford and Pooh Bear, Joy
Cowley, Margaret Mahy and Stu Duval.
School trips are a very important part of the curriculum. Pupils enjoy the experience of learning
outside the school environment. A number of stories continue to be told about incidents on
trips — we even lost a teacher for a time!
Staff have relied on museums to introduce and reinforce a topic of study. Our own Oratia
Settlers’ Museum, Auckland Museum, Maritime Museum, Colonial Museum and Museum of
Transport and Technology have all been visited and enjoyed over the years. The Auckland Zoo,
Arataki Visitor Centre, Waitakere Ranges, Kelly Tarltons and the Stardome Observatory have
also provided a base for learning and discovery.
Local beaches are other learning environments with Cornwallis, Kaitarakihi, Kakamatua,
Mill Bay, Piha and Kitekite Falls being popular destinations for all levels of the school. We are
lucky to have so many valuable resources close to our doorstep.
A regular trip to Piha by the whole school is related to the Northern Lifeguard Association’s
Beach Education programme, which teaches pupils basic skills to keep them safe on the West
Coast beaches. The children love this experience and the challenge that comes with it.
Social studies and science have led to a further range of Education Outside the School visits
that include Hoani Waititi Marae, Henderson High and Avondale Marae, Glen Eden Fire
Station, Kumeu Show and farms, Whenuapai and Hobsonville airbases, Sea Mart, Recycling
Centre, Panmure Basin, and the Tip Top Factory and dairy farm.
Pupils have also been exposed to knowledge and skills that visitors have brought to our
school. How the senior pupils enjoyed the demonstration put on by the Blockhouse Bay
Medieval Enthusiasts Club!
The Pounamu Concert Party (1991) and the Museum Cultural group visited us at the end of
our Maori Language topic in 1993. This was followed in 1994 with an umu and a performance
by the Bruce McLaren Cultural Group as the
culmination of the junior Pacific Island study.
Later on that year Maori Language Week was
completed with a hangi and a concert.
Grandparents’ Day has been a popular
event for many years. There is always so much
pride and excitement when pupils show their
grandparents what they have learned and even
more so when grandparents talk about their
lives ‘long, long ago’.
The Life Education caravan visits the
school every two years. Pupils move through
programmes that provide opportunities for
developing skills that will support them
personally and socially.
Two nationwide health days called ‘Make a
Sandwich Day’ and ‘Apple Crunch Day’ were
enjoyed by Oratia children. Science, technology, art, social studies and maths experiences have been extended to days or weeks
Enjoying the umu.
when parents have been able to view and take
part in activities that pupils have developed
as a result of their learning. These subjects
have also involved the learning opportunities
for children with visits from police, film
directors, maths experts, artists, scientists and
many others. We have also had fun days in the
form of pyjama days, wild hair days and green
days, with money raised going to a range of
charities.
Junior trip to Panmure Basin 1995.
Fierce Oratia warriors.
School Trips
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Junior trip to Cornwallis 1995.
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The Eagle is landing!
We have experienced the excitement of
helicopters landing in our school grounds
before, but can pupils who attended Oratia
in 2004 remember a visit by the Eagle
helicopter? What a lot of interest when it
landed on the field, stirring up a dust storm
that closed the pool and redistributed the
bark from the senior playground!
There has always been an awareness of
the importance of conservation, in particular
within our own community.
In 1990 the Standard 2 syndicate
were encouraged in their study on water
conservation by Robert D. Frogg, who
presented certificates to children for posters that were titled ‘Drips Waste Water’.
A performance by The Toxic Avengers
reinforced the need for water conservation,
and the production Trash It, Don’t Stash It
introduced the pupils to the importance of
recycling.
As caring for the environment becomes
How can we save the Oratia Stream?
more of a focus, we have become an Enviro
School. This began in 2006 with some pupils following the Oratia Stream and seeing how it
has become polluted, and reflecting on how to address this so that our stream can once again
become a place for leisure and enjoyment.
The Enviro group is also planning a vegetable garden.
School Camps and Sleepovers
Many will remember the annual Year 6 camp at Parklands, Snells Beach, with the huge flying
fox, the expansive grounds and the shallow water at the beach. Camps were held there from at
least the mid-1980s until the camp closure in 2002.
In 2003,Year 6 began a new tradition with an annual camp at the Marine Education Centre
at Long Bay. Specialists help the children with a variety of water activities.
Year 5 children started going to Houghton’s Bush Camp at Muriwai from 1996. This
tradition of an Outdoor Education Camp that focuses on hiking, compass work and using
the environment has continued for ten years. Many will remember the Burma Trail and the
hike up the beach.
Over the years our Year 3 and 4 children have had sleepovers at the school grounds, pitching
tents and using the hall, and made visits to Kelly Tarltons, Knock Na Gree and, most recently,
Carey Park.
Camps bring to mind excited children not going to sleep, camp concerts with a wide variety
of talent and ability, parent items where adults ‘look silly’ to give the children pleasure, bumps
and bruises, gentle moans of children when required to do some exercise, noisy parents when
children are at last asleep, no requests for television or X-Boxes and in one year a great deal of
sickness at the Year 5 camp.
Off to a flying start at the school camp.
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Physical Education, Health and Sports
Physical education, health and sports encourage the development of physical skills and
confidence for many pupils, and Oratia pupils have maintained a high level of participation and
achievement. Financial support for sports uniforms has come from the lunch room, the school
support group and, in 2007, sponsorship of sports shirts
by Hiab Transport.
The whole school regularly attends the Waitakere
Gymnastics Club. This day provides ample opportunity
for trying new equipment in a well-organised situation.
Sports have always been an integral part of school.
Kiwi Sports days allow pupils of all abilities to take part
in sporting activities. We have excelled in two particular sports over the past 25 years: there is considerable
mention of success in swimming and cross-country at
interschool sports.
Our swimmers have competed successfully in interschool tournaments for many years. 1992 was a good
year for our swimmers who gained places in most events.
The following year we won 13 of the 18 relays. This
year (2007) our swimming team won the Swimming
Championship for the fourth time over the past
Interschool swimming team 1993.
five years.
Running
Running is a sport that has always appealed to a large number of the Oratia pupils. Interschool
cross-country runs were held at Parr’s Park for many years, but more recently they have been
held at our school. The year 1991 saw Tane Samson, Jessica Sutherland and Toby Wilmoth
getting first place in their age groups and the nine-year-old boys team were champions
with ten-year-old girls getting third in their
race in the Henderson District Cross-Country
Championships. Highlights have included taking six team divisions and three individual
winners in 1995, four individual winners in
1997, four team divisions and three individual
winners in 2000, and five team divisions and
three individual winners in 2004 and 2005.
This pattern of successes continues to 2007.
ASB Fun Run 1993.
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The ASB children’s fun run at the Ellerslie Race Course was a popular annual event, with up
to 75 runners from Oratia. We also took part in the Easter Show Relay. Every year since 1992
Oratia children have competed in the Glen Eden Harriers children’s fun run. It is a 2-km run
and 75 Oratia children participated this year.
Junior cross country 1998.
Interschool cross country 2006.
Netball
At the Henderson Combined Schools Winter Sports Field Day in 1990 our netballers were
runners-up in both grades. Our A Netball team was beaten in the finals in 1991. Netball was
resurrected and the school rejoined the Saturday competition in the late 1990s, resulting in a
significant jump in skills development for the
children involved.
With good parental support we now
compete with some success in the West
Auckland competition. Saturday netball came
into its own for our pupils in 2004 when we had
ten teams from Year 1 to Year 6 competing.
Cricket
Senior children take part in Saturday competitions for cricket. Records show the pleasure
the school’s cricket team provided when they
romped home with a resounding win. For
many years during the 1990s we had a Year
1-3 junior cricket team, which laid the skills
foundation for more senior teams.
Cricketers 1996.
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Special Events
Rugby
Rugby came to the fore in the early 1990s.
In 1993 our rugby boys represented West
Auckland in an Auckland-wide champion
tournament. They were undefeated over the
season and came fourth in the tournament.
The boys had considerable success for several
years. Our first girls’ rugby team was formed
in 2004.
Anzac services have always been of importance, with the involvement of RSA members if
possible. Children read poems or scripts that they have written as a result of their studies, listen
to the ‘Last Post’, watch the flag being lowered and raised again, and observe a minute’s silence
to acknowledge family and members of the Oratia community.
Other sports
Interschool sports involve all senior pupils in
some type of winter sporting activity. These
range from league and soccer to softball and
hockey.
In the 2000s, flipperball has gained major
focus, involving coaching and participation
after school and during the weekend. T-ball
Our best-performing rugby team 1993.
is another more recent sport that Oratia children
enjoy during the weekends.
With a strong local Oratia Soccer Club operating out of Parrs Park, the school has always
performed well in this sport. Some gymnastics teams have competed with success.
Sport is always dependent on the enthusiasm and skills of teachers and parents.
Rusty Gash enjoyed being involved in Anzac Day 2007.
End-of-year events are times for celebrations for Year 6 students who are moving on, a time
for sharing future plans and school successes with parents and friends at the senior prizegiving.
This is also a time for sadness as pupils move on to different schools and say goodbye to teachers
whom they have known for up to six years. In 1993 we began our tradition of giving each
Standard 4 pupil a hebe plant called Oratia as a living memory of happy times.
Speech contests are an integral part of the Year 3 to Year 6 programme. The winning senior
speechmaker presents his or her speech to parents at this time.
The senior prizegiving day is also a time for the school to thank the many helpers who
contribute so much to the school over the year.The junior school presents its Christmas concert
around the same time.
Interschool softball 1992.
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Kiwi Gym 1998.
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Extension Groups
Extension groups provide a specific programme for some of the pupils who display advanced
talents. These groups have been structured for children from Year 1 to Year 6 and have included
pupils from neighbouring schools. Art, science, maths, computer skills, writing and problem
solving are some aspects that have been provided through the years. Trips such as the Science
Road Show, and a recent visit to Tiritiri Matangi to take part in conservation activities have
been important aspects of these groups.
Students have attended courses to help them further develop their talents, as did Julia Vale and
William Bailey with a computer course and Gabrielle Williams and Emily Scragg with creative
writing during 1992.
Students who experience some difficulties with learning may have dual enrolment with
Correspondence School and Oratia, while others have extra support in the form of individualised
reading, Rainbow Reading, or small group help with language development. Tim Tipene has
also contributed to student self-development
with his Warrior Kids programme. We have
been lucky to have had many caring and
supportive teacher aides who have done their
utmost for both children and teachers.
Hobbies or interests afternoons have also
met the needs of all pupils within the wider
frame of whole syndicates. Groups of Oratia
pupils have been involved in competitions
organised by the New Zealand Herald and
Newspapers in Education. We have regularly
attended library quizzes and been involved
in the Krypton Factor competitions, with
Children with Special Abilities Group 1994.
sterling support from parents.
They have been involved in an analysis of a PTA questionnaire and are planning a book character
day to raise funds for some library books that pupils will choose.
Cool Schools is a student mediation programme. After considerable training the mediators
move around the school at lunchtime to help children solve minor issues.
Tikanga
Over the past 15 years Oratia children have been involved in learning the legends of the Te Wao
nui o Tiriwa (The Great Forest of Tiriwa) and Oratia (the place where the sun shines brightly),
and have developed an appreciation of our environment through the eyes of M-aori.
Exposure to M-aori language and culture has been constant throughout the years thanks to
the expertise of teachers and itinerant teachers who have a sound knowledge of M-aori culture
and Te Reo. Topic studies have involved tikanga, basic language, making and eating hangi food,
visiting and staying on marae, and performing at kapa haka competitions.
Since 2004 the children have had the privilege of having Whaea Jonni-Rose come into their
classes to teach basic phrases and greetings, weaving, waiata and action songs. Over these years
she has also established a very successful kapa haka group that has performed exceptionally well.
In 2006 Scarlett Bossley-Hoyte and Chrysler Carter came second in the long poi at a wh-anau
competition at Parrs Park.
Student Leadership
Student councils have operated at different
times over the past 25 years. This group has
organised staff versus pupil netball matches,
pyjama days and problem solving of current
issues. The student council has made a
comeback in 2007 after a hiatus of several years.
Art Ability Group tile made for the Year 2–3 playground area.
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The school kapa haka group 2006.
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Grounds and Buildings
Schools definitely change over time and ours is no exception. Many will remember the
swimming pool as the big centenary project.
During the mid to late 1980s, considerable discussion centred around shifting the library,
which ended up remaining exactly where it was (beside the Shaw Road gate) until well into
the 1990s. During this time plans for the lunchroom were also a point of discussion.The school
committee was in full agreement that the pool tuck-shop would be the lunchroom and the old
lunchroom would be remodelled as a workroom for the library.The dental clinic was renovated
and working bees kept parents busy in the junior playground area.
The fitness trail that was initiated and developed by Mike Marra was an exciting innovation
for Oratia. Some of the Perspex-covered signs on how to complete the different tasks are still to
be seen.The upgrading of the junior playgrounds, including the demolition of the fireman’s pole
and the pipe area, were brought about because of the need to meet new safety requirements.
During 1984 and 1985 the process of developing a junior play area involved preparing a draft
design, getting donations and funding, taking advice from physical education advisors, clearing
permission from the Ministry of Education and organising working bees. This project, led by
Joan Marra, has led to enjoyment by hundreds of pupils.
Many can remember the pleasure of jumping from one segment to another of the creatures
and shapes that were painted on the junior play area by Graeme Gash in 1989.
The alterations at the end of the junior block included a shower.What a difference this made
when little ones had ‘an accident’. Instead of having to stand outside while being washed down,
if we couldn’t contact parents, they now had a private place with lovely warm water to get
cleaned up and dressed in.
In 1996 the school became a Smokefree area, then a year later ‘No dogs’ signs were placed on
fences. If we went back to 1983 we would have seen a similar sign erected that said ‘No dogs
and horses’.
It was also in 1983 that the plaque was placed on the time capsule rock. Only 75 years to go
before we can open it!
By the mid-1980s the school’s needs far outstripped the space used as the hall/library. As
described by the school committee to the Education Board, this space was found to be too small
as a hall and had real handicaps as a library. It was used every night by community, cubs, scouts
and fitness groups. Many of the books were on mobile trolleys that tended to tip up, dislodging
books.This led to the books being wrongly replaced and on different shelves.The piano was also
being used in the ‘hall’ while another class was using the library. What tolerance in those years!
The first swimmers in the new pool, 1982.
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Lunchtimes changed to 12:30-1:30 pm in 1992 and today’s classroom numbers will probably
mean little to ex-pupils as we re-numbered the school in 1995.
The year 1997 was the beginning of considerable change with the incinerator being
demolished, leading to the complete recycling of all rubbish. In December of that year we
commemorated the 100th birthday of Rewi Alley with a plaque placed at the base of the tree
planted ten years previously.
By the end of the nineties the netball courts had been resealed. They were by now a far cry
from the courts that had inadequate lighting — in fact in 1982 car headlights were used to
illuminate the field end of the courts.
Landscaping outside our new administration block was completed, a senior playground built,
a thriving worm farm was in action with the ‘worm wee’ being a popular seller, rocks were
placed on the bus island and a new school sign was placed in the centre of it.
Not only did the year 2000 bring in the new millennium it also began an era of further changes
to the school environment. New playgrounds were completed and the netball court area was
reconstructed and levelled. The staff and their families enjoyed working bees to build an outdoor
area, which provided fresh air and a space away from the staffroom to eat lunches. Visitors will
notice more in the way of verandas in the junior block and shade areas, the result of a heightened
awareness of the dangers of the sun. Trees also provide more shade for eating and playing areas.
We all remember the spraying for the
Painted Apple Moth in 2002–2003.Although
there was much controversy about the
spraying, there was also the inconvenience of
keeping children indoors while it occurred
and for a time afterwards. What excitement
in the classrooms when the low-flying planes
went over the school.
The Parr family had a tree-planting ceremony in March 2004, with some 25 family
descendants present. Similar memorials could
be repeated by a number of the little school
in the valley’s families.
Arbor Day continues to be commemorated. This year (2007) we planted twelve kowhai, the
beginning of a grove of kowhai that will hopefully give the nature trail a golden glow when
they are all flowering in future years. Trees are regarded as one of the school’s assets. We have
been the recipients of donations of trees, plants, gardening support and top soil over the years.
Parents, children, the council, community members and other schools have all contributed to
our lovely environment.
Playgrounds are fun!
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We look forward to seeing tuis in years to come.
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The Nature Trail
In the Wider World
Past pupils will notice that the old school house has gone.
School committee minutes would indicate several requests to
the Ministry of Education to move the house. This finally
happened in 1992, as part of a rationalisation of school houses
across the country.
After the clearing of the schoolhouse site, we asked the
children what they wanted in this area. They suggested that
the lower grassed area become a coaching area and secondary
sports area surrounded by a native tree trail.
Two years later we had a miniature native tree reserve.
This area is a favourite spot for the children, who love to
make tracks through the trees and hide from each other, and
generally enjoy being able to sit and talk under the trees.
Recent surveys completed by our children show respect for this area and their wish for more
trees to be planted here and in other groves around the school.
Oratia School has hosted a number of educationalists as a result of recommendations from
various people. They have included a Vietnamese educator, American teachers (who came over
a number of years), groups of educationalists brought by the University of Auckland, and this
year 20 teachers from Singapore.
We have also been part of research projects initiated by the Ministry of Education, such as
NEMP testing (National Education Monitoring Programme) which checks Year 4 students.
Individuals who are involved in education have also conducted research in our school.
Another example of Oratia School’s recognition has been the use of photographs of pupils
and teachers in the Beginning School Mathematics teacher books, the science curriculum
manual, children’s readers, filming of the nature trail for the Earthwatch TV programme, and
more recently the Watercare magazine.
Staff Support
Oratia teachers have seen many changes in the curriculum, expectations and school organisation
in the 25 years since the centennial in 1982.
During the early eighties the school had to apply for money for teaching resources. Now we
are autonomous with each curriculum team having its own budget.
The year 1985 saw the school getting an extra teacher under what was known as the
1-20 scheme. A year later Beginning School Mathematics (BSM) was introduced for junior
class teachers with a teacher-only day. Now, 20 years later we are using a new mathematics
programme called the Numeracy Project that has involved junior and senior class teachers in a
year-long introduction and another year of support.
From 1986 the School Committee granted teachers leave to sit advanced studies, and we are
fortunate in having a Board of Trustees that continues to support teachers financially with their
studies and professional development, both within and outside school hours.
Over the past 25 years teachers have been involved in a wide range of educational professional
development. Teacher-only days, evening courses, holiday courses covering one or two days,
weekend courses and conferences have been attended by teachers who want to further their
knowledge of subjects. Sixteen staff completed an Infolink course in 1998. The board budgeted
for three teachers to attend the International Reading Conference, and this generosity has
continued. Some teachers have also taken on years of study to gain higher qualifications. More
recently the school has been involved in educational contracts that cover years rather than days.
These have been led by facilitators who have shared their expertise over longer periods from
one to three years, covering all curriculum areas.
The 2007 Budget has promised schools a new ratio of numbers for New Entrant classes
— 1:18. We shall see!
Miro Sumich helps the children in the nature trail.
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Parent Support
The Parent-Teacher Association
Involvement of parents in their children’s education is one of the strengths of Oratia.
In 1985 parents were sent a questionnaire that asked their views on their involvement and
what information they would like to be given.To this day parents are asked their opinions in the
form of a questionnaire every third year.
Parent-teacher evenings are usually well
attended, as are most of the parent education
evenings that have covered subjects such as
reading and written language, family maths,
mathematics through the school, computers,
supporting your child at school, self esteem,
and science and technology days.
The school has also been very fortunate
in the support given by parents within the
PTA group, the lunchroom, library help
and classroom help. Sports activities have
always attracted a very proud and involved
supporters group of parents, grandparents
and friends.
Topics or units of study are often the
A proud group of supporters.
impetus for parent involvement in the school.
The value of their knowledge is never underestimated. Aspects of different cultures such as food,
dress and customs are always much more
interesting when a person other than the
teacher is telling and showing! Grandparents’
Days are also very popular. Other aspects
of study, such as Keeping Ourselves Safe,
encourage parents to attend an introduction
evening so that they have an understanding
of the programme. Shared lunches and open
days also provide enjoyment for parents and
children, while parents have been invaluable
in the coaching of sports and in being
involved in Saturday sports.
It has been the school’s pleasure to invite
any parent who has helped at the school to a
lunch before the senior prizegiving.
By 1989 the School Support Group had been very involved in supporting school programmes
and activities.They had organised McDonald’s Day, cleaned library shelves, organised the end-ofyear lunch for parent helpers, helped coordinate and run the Stark-Brown picnic, run working
bees, overseen the pool during the summer holidays, bought and made curtains for the library,
sanded and painted junior class tables, and organised suppers for evening occasions.
April 1991 saw the reformation of the support group and in 1993 the support group and
the lunchroom committee amalgamated and continued to support the school in many ways as
before. Eventually this group was renamed as the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
The PTA has continued to be a very involved and important aspect of this school. It has funded
playgrounds for each area of the school, sandpit renovations and the gardens, and supported the
BOT and ‘athons’. It is the PTA that finds money to support any children who need financial
help to go to camp, and organises many discos, sausage sizzles and working bees.
The Support Group and more recently the PTA have organised many parent-teacher evenings
that covered areas of the curriculum and parenting support. This year two seminars, ‘Boys In
Education’ and ‘Hot Tips For Raising Girls’, were highly successful, with approximately 300
people attending each.
Health Wise
Support and concern for our children’s health and safety is a fundamental aspect of daily school
life. In 1981 the school committee minutes included the comment: ‘Hair infestation continues
to be a problem.’ Hearing and vision testing had also taken place as well as road safety learning.
All of these still occur 26 years later.
Four years on, in 1985 it was noted by the dental nurse of the time that a recent nationwide
survey suggested that many New Zealand children were not fit and that a number were
overweight. It was decided that any sweets brought to school would be held until after school.
Again, a current issue!
During 1990 a programme called Hats on Heads was introduced, encouraging children to
wear hats whenever they were outside. Wearing hats is now compulsory during the summer
months. Failing to wear a hat means sitting in the shade during interval and during sports
times.
Information and Communication Technology
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is an established part of the twentyfirst century classroom. Back in 1986, there was great excitement when a video and TV were
installed in the hall. The next year a BBC computer and two Apple computers were purchased,
a typewriter was installed in the library, and a burglar alarm was installed in the administration
block as a result of break-ins.
It’s neat having Nana at school.
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A computer evening to show parents how we were able to enhance learning was attended by
four parents. Not to be deterred, we continued with this new tool for learning and in 1990 two
Apple 11es were purchased.We also won three computers, two printers and software that added
to our regular purchase of computers. This trend continued with each class having a computer
and in 1998 with government assistance we were able to install cables in half of the school to
start a computer network. That year we also bought 20 new PCs so that each class could have a
new machine. Two years later the computer suite was completed and 13 new computers were
purchased to allow whole class teaching to happen.
In 1994 the front office gained a computer and the intercom system was upgraded. The
following year saw the library also computerised.
The PTA has supported the Board of Trustees in financing computers as funding does not
come from the Ministry although it is an expectation that schools have them. Still, in 2004 the
Ministry of Education introduced a system whereby all teachers were loaned a laptop. Other
purchases that allowed for Information and Communication Technology to develop were a
35mm still camera, a video cam and photocopiers, which were replaced as necessary.
Progressively the school has been acquiring digital photographic equipment. We now own
five digital still cameras and a digital video camera. Many of these items have been obtained
through the Telecom Partner Points scheme. Money earned through productions and talent
concerts will continue to provide us with further sound and lighting facilities in our hall.
Learning new skills in the computer suite.
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Lone Kauri School
In the heady days of the 1970s it never occurred to Karekare residents that they could not
start their own school. Jonathan Hunt offered his land as a site and fundraising was started. It
was a challenge for a small, isolated community but they made steady progress toward their
goal. At the time they were not sure what form the school would take but did know it would
not be a private school because they wanted every local child to be able to attend. In February
1978 the Lone Kauri School began in Kubi Witten-Hannah’s barn under the wing of the
Correspondence School.
A New Zealand Herald front-page story
attracted the attention of a philanthropist who
funded the balance of what was needed to erect
the purpose-built school. Education Board
architect Alec (Bill) Witten-Hannah designed
it and by term two the school was running in
its own premises. It became clear that working
under the Correspondence School system was
not ideal and over the next, almost six years the
school battled to achieve a satisfactory longterm status. Finally the Ministry was prepared to link Lone Kauri to Oratia as a side school.
Its first teacher was Peter Buffet who stayed for two years until his health deteriorated.
The Education Board appointed Beverley Thompson to the position, and 22 years on she is
still there.
The unusual situation of the school has
presented challenges over funding and staffing
but it has been supported by the boards of
trustees, principals and senior management of
Oratia District School. It has been a rocky road
at times as the roll has fluctuated and the unusual status of the school caused some headaches for the bureaucrats, but it has continued.
It has survived the sale of Jonathan Hunt’s
property with the new owners (the Grimes
family) enthusiastically adopting the school.
Links with Oratia School began in 1985 with weekly visits to the pool and have followed
with participation in athletic and cultural events. In February 2005 the pupils had fullday visits and were involved in the use of the library and the computer suite, swimming
and school assembly.
The Lone Kauri side school has been aided by funds raised at the annual (well, mostly)
Karekare Beach Races. The school has made many visits and hosted many visitors. From the
beginning the school year has finished with a concert and from 1982 a special theme or play has
been created as the centrepiece of the Christmas presentation.
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Part of a Community
Part of a Community
Recollections from Irvin West: Relieving Principal (1971),
Principal (1981-82)
After some years as head of an Auckland inner-city school about to face demolition, it was
with considerable elation I found myself appointed as principal of Oratia District School in
February of 1971. As a Waitakere resident I had admired the school for both its reputation and
an appealing setting and was delighted to take up the appointment. There was the limitation of
a 12-month term and ‘fitting in’ with the work of the regular principal, Ferg Still, who had been
seconded to the Auckland Teachers’ College for the year.
One of the first things I discovered on looking over the then basic school pool was that it
held not the cool water expected for term one swimming but tons of paper! Eventually with the
collaboration of the caretaker we managed to truck it out to its intended destination.
I was quickly to discover there was considerable depth of community care, a warm staff with
sound and innovative teaching skills and an office administration that provided me with all the
background information needed to get on with the job. The pupils well reflected the values
of the many parents who commuted to the city from the Waitakeres or maintained the then
profuse vineyards and orchards in the district.
My first assembly outside the senior classrooms introduced me to the 300 or so pupils and their
teachers. One of the few males appeared in jeans, brightly coloured singlet and what appeared to be
a bandsman’s uniform jacket complete with epaulets.
On a more professional level, Jill, one of the middle-school teachers had invented, and had made
available through the school, innovative moveable inter-fitting furniture well ahead of the times.
The teaching staff brought to the school a length of tenure quite unusual in most schools, but this
was a very positive attribute with none of the disadvantages associated with lengthy appointments.
After ten years I was fortunate to be reappointed to Oratia, this time in a permanent position.
Many of the staff I had previously worked with remained and continued to take the school from
strength to strength.
One of my first moves was to introduce the then widely recognised standardised Tomlinson
Attainment Tests, which highlighted the academic abilities of the older pupils and which
emphasised the need to meet the challenges of so many gifted children within the school.
Creatively, pupils excelled in many ways, and the centennial pageant, with staff and students
in wonderfully authentic costumes, was a shining example.
Much of my last year was involved in the planning of the centenary celebrations, one of the
main features of which was to be the opening of the centennial pool.The dedicated enthusiasm
of parent and community workers, including our present mayor, Bob Harvey, kept everyone
determined to make the celebrations the success they became.
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A more regular celebration was the school fair, which as well as providing the sale of a rich
variety of produce, excelled in offering unique activities and games for young and old.
My best memories centre on the students who in so many ways made it a school to enjoy.
The sight and sound of the traditional Dalmatian dances and music that so often added colour
to the school year, and the many parent/community/student-centred activities, accentuated the
aims and goals of the life of the school.
While congratulating the school on accomplishing 125 years of service, my wide experience
as a past principal and a former reviewer with the Education Review Office leaves me in no
doubt that Oratia is at the forefront of today’s most successful schools.
Fundraising
A government grant managed by the Board of Trustees and the school covers the basic needs.
A school that wishes to provide an enhanced place of learning and lively modern and progressive
opportunities for its pupils must look to the immediate and surrounding communities, businesses
and charities for extra funds to provide these. A great deal of help comes from parental input in
raising the money, giving time, expertise and lots of plain old hard work to the various projects,
large and small, that have happened around the school over the years. Oratia has always been
most fortunate in having willing help from parents and friends.
Following the completion of the swimming pool other projects have been undertaken.
A large multifunction hall became a major event. Upgrading of the playgrounds — particularly
the junior school playground and netball courts — was needed. Maintaining and developing
the library with new books and computerised tracking has been an ongoing project. New
technology came in the form of copiers, computers, printers. Videos and TV replaced the old
films shown on difficult-to-manage projection equipment.
The library benefited from a generous bequest from the Sunde family, from mathathons,
spellathons, book fairs and display sales and even from the staff taking on the contract to paint
the pool changing sheds and donating the money to books for the library.
Visit the junior playground at playtime or lunchtime and you will see children making full
use of equipment provided from many sources — sponsorship from two local businesses and a
bank, donations from the PTA and money raised at a fair in Glen Eden where willing helpers
sold raffle tickets, hot dogs etc.
Raising the finance needed for the hall brought out the entrepreneurial side of fundraisers.
Garden rambles to beautiful local gardens generously opened by their owners proved very
popular and one raised $9000. The PTA were to the fore in organising games evenings, discos
and a garden party and sourcing grants from the Waitakere Licensing Trust. Children held
lunchtime stalls and ran raffles, donations were received and a grant of $234,000 was a great
boost. Crowning touches to the beautiful building are a tower housing a large clock and below
this the refurbished school handbell that the principal rings every morning at nine o’clock.
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The lunchroom committee ran sausage sizzles and made donations from lunchroom profits
to help cover the costs of Year 5 and 6 annual camps and set up the sports teams in uniforms.
Fundraising has been done by the pupils for donations to others. Fun runs raised money
for World Vision. The Heart Foundation Jump Rope programme was linked into the physical
education programme and culminated in a sponsored Jump Rope day with the proceeds going
to the Heart Foundation.Telethon appeals were supported with car cleaning and other pupilrun activities. Coin trail donations went to cyclone relief, the Solomon Islands and the James
Family Trust.
Jump Rope skills taken to Aotea Square 1988.
Coin trail for Papua New Guinea.
Of Gala Days and Country Fairs
Country Fair Day 2007 became a rather wet event but still raised $32,000. Mary Redgrove,
secretary of the School Committee in the 1950s, reports they thought they had done well to
take over 100 pounds and again in the 1980s we thought we had done well to take $2000!
On one memorable occasion, at the close of a successful day, after the cleaning-up had been
done and the celebratory cup of tea enjoyed with the usual post mortem by the day’s workers
(no wine then, mark you), Dorothy Evans and I were left in the office to count the money. Our
friendly bank manager had agreed to meet us in Glen Eden at a prearranged time to receive as
much of the cash as had been prepared and keep it safely in the bank over the weekend. (We
were not about to risk losing it to a break-in as happened some years later.) We had the blinds
drawn, the door securely locked and we were getting on well when suddenly we heard a car
drive up, a key turn in the lock, and in walked our principal. He had gone home, changed into
his gardening clothes and then had a twinge of conscience at leaving two women to cope with
all that cash so he had come back to take the money to the bank for us. He picked up the canvas
bag, leaving us still counting money, and left.
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Shortly afterwards he returned looking a trifle sheepish. He had duly met up with the bank
manager who viewed him suspiciously, saying he was expecting a woman in a little red Mini,
and wondering if he was about to be hit on the head. He took the bag, saying it didn’t feel as
though there was much in it, emptied it out on the counter, and out poured a pile of nails! Our
helpful principal had picked up the bag of nails from the nail-driving competition.
Val Lyon, School Secretary 1967–94
Community Use of School Facilities
Outside normal school hours, the school’s facilities have been available for public use, and many
diverse groups have availed themselves of them. The small multi-purpose hall was used by the
Academy of Creative Dance for providing an after-school programme for pupils. In the evenings
local ladies had their ‘Keep Fit’ classes, Neighbourhood Watch meetings were held, and the AntiNuclear group met there too. Oratia Scout Group was a regular evening user and in 1983, with
sponsorship from local industries, ran a holiday entertainment programme. The Scouts and
Cubs also made use of the lunchroom and staffroom in their fundraising pizza-selling activities.
Oratia Soccer Club has made use of the hall and fields from time to time and once set up a
collection centre for a bottle drive. Netball teams have trained on the courts. Most users pay a
nominal fee. For many years the Aotea Caravan Club held weekend gatherings and transformed
the playing field into a colourful campsite. In 1986 they were paying $4 per caravan and had the
use of the pool. In 2006 after a break of several years they once again returned.
Once our amazing school hall was opened it was quickly utilised during school hours.
However, to make the most of this facility it was offered for hire to the community, with
consideration to the school neighbours and ensuring there was no conflict with use at the local
Settlers’ Hall.
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Among regular hirers have been Kids 4 Drama, karate, tae kwon do, dance, yoga and pilates
classes, assuring occupancy of the hall every weeknight.Weekend use has been mostly dance and
drama groups holding performances.
Our fields have been used over the years by various outside groups. The North Harbour
Netball Union used our netball courts in the early nineties, and the pool was also used by Dick
Quax for his running coaching school that was housed at Knock Na Gree during a summer.
Even the kindergarten had an overnight camp at school in 1991.
The School Pool
In 1979 a pool committee was formed to coordinate fundraising activities and work towards the
construction of a replacement for the existing pool (built in 1945). The original pool had given
good service but was far too small for the increased roll of over 500 pupils. The aim was for
the official pool opening to coincide with the centenary celebrations at Labour Weekend 1982.
A wide variety of fundraising activities were devised, from raffles, galas, bottle drives, coal
bagging and selling, fruit sales and social events, to spellathons and discos.
Inflation increased the original cost of
around $40,000 to beyond $60,000. In early
1982 the School Committee organised
weekend parent helper groups to demolish
the pool and on-site buildings. Tenders were
called and the new pool was underway. Funds
were boosted with the sale of bricks that are
set into an end wall and inscribed with the
donors’ names.
The new pool is large enough for two
classes to use at one time and includes a
beach area for junior learners and wheelchair
access. It has catered for the school swimming
sports, and a variety of lifesaving and boating
There’s plenty of space in our new pool.
demonstrations.Wooden decking and seating
lines the pool on one side, and a barbecue area was later added for picnic groups. This was
later decommissioned. Fencing of the whole area and planting of trees in and around the area
complete the scene. Each year parents and the community have the opportunity to purchase
keys to use the pool outside school hours.
The sale of keys for public use began at $10 and this was increased to $15 with a refund of $5
on return of the key. In 1985 there were over 200 keys on loan. Most users respected the area
and rules though some didn’t which led to the School Committee making a recommendation
that the names of rule abusers be published in the newsletter and they be ‘relieved of keys if
rules broken’. All key holders were told they had authority to confront pool abusers. Daily
maintenance of the pool during term time is in the hands of the caretaker. Initially January and
weekend maintenance was carried out by a roster of key holders but recently one person has
taken responsibility for this — a big job over holiday time. Safety is always a concern.
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They Went to Oratia . . .
Professor Boyd Swinburn, 1958-66
At Oratia District School, as far as he can remember, Boyd played barefoot rugby on the muddy
field and tested homemade skateboards on the asphalt. His future as a doctor was evident
when the headmaster paraded his writing skills in front of the class (‘It looks like a chook
walked across this page’). At Auckland Grammar he graduated to rugby boots and, according
to his school reports, achieved ‘short of his potential’. As a resident doctor, he led the industrial
action to reduce the crazy working hours of junior doctors and later, as the medical director
of the National Heart Foundation, his balding head kept popping up on television and his low
rumblings could be heard on radio trying to get action on heart disease and obesity prevention. In
2001, he was appointed the Professor of Population Health at Deakin University in Melbourne
where he currently pursues his research to prevent childhood obesity. Like a broken record,
he continues his advocacy for action on obesity prevention within Australia, and through his
work with the World Health Organisation and the International Obesity Taskforce he suffers
delusions of changing the world as well. His wife, his three grown children and his parents (who
still live in Oratia) continue to shake their heads and smile kindly.
Helen Medlyn, 1963-70, Head Girl 1970
I loved Oratia District School, and Mr Butters in particular. I can see his smiling face now, pipe
clamped in his teeth, white hair akimbo, all the time encouraging and nurturing my love and
aptitude for music. I am also grateful to Mr Dixon who carried on that tradition. I’m not sure I
would have been the successful diva I am without having had those two men in my life.
Even though I’ve lived out of suitcases for more years than I care to remember and I have
no home of my own, this career of mine is full of riches of other kinds and has taken me to
Australia, Japan, Malaysia, the UK and the USA.
Some highlights from my eclectic mix of work include portraying Joy Gresham in the
play Shadowlands and Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar, being the mezzo soloist in
Handel’s Messiah with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Opera House; playing a
Rhinemaiden and a Valkyrie in Wagner’s four-opera epic, The Ring; and steaming up a few pairs
of spectacles in my ‘hell’ cabaret shows!
Ewen ‘The Westie’ Gilmour, 1968-74
One memory I have is coming third in a sand saucer competition. I knew I was never going to
be a prefect but I had pinned my hopes on being a crossing guard... I didn’t get the job. I was
one of the ringleaders who organised and led a protest against the workers who were chopping
down the original pine trees by the field. An angry mob of seven- and eight-year-olds ran at
them armed with hot cups of soup that we threw from a safe distance. I remember in a school
play about Noah’s Ark I was one of the monkeys — I’ve been typecast ever since.
I still have a tiny trophy for winning the Bruce McLaren Intermediate School cross-country
when I was in form one. At Kelston Boys I enjoyed fifth form so much I did it twice.
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I worked in a variety of jobs after leaving
school, including at a lot of the local vineyards
and orchards. By the age of 32 I had worked
in over 50 jobs (I never got fired, just got
bored).
Entering the comedy scene was never a
lifelong goal, it was kind of accidental, but
it has turned out to be the longest job I’ve
ever had. I got married in 2003 to my lovely
wife and thought I’d better get a real job, so
in 2004 I became a councillor for Waitakere
City. I am and always will be very proud of my Westie background.
Matthew Barnett, 1978-83
Matthew remembers that having a loud voice enabled him to lead Mrs Rogers’ M-aori culture
group for the haka despite being in the running for palest, skinniest boy in the class. He was
awarded the Dux of School at the end of Standard 4, an achievement of which he is still proud.
After receiving a BSc (1994) and MSc (1997, with first class honours), Matthew graduated
in May 2005 with a PhD in Biological Sciences, with his doctoral thesis investigating the
effect that a mother’s diet during pregnancy and lactation can have on the health of her child.
Now married to Katherine, Matthew is a post-doctoral Fellow funded by the Foundation for
Research, Science and Technology at Ag Research.
Matthew has maintained his interest in music, having played regularly in bands since the early
1990s. He has taken to busking at the Oratia Settlers’ Market with three other Oratia locals:
Matthew Moncur, Jonny Moncur and Yohanna Davidson. He is in the throes of planning a
house to be built in Oratia, ‘because it’s the best place in the world’.
More recently he has completed two and a half years as TV3 weather presenter, sung the
national anthem at a netball test between New Zealand and Australia, become a celebrity
chef presenting Tegel Taste Kitchen, duelling with the ‘Naked Chef ’, Jamie Oliver, presenting
Masterfoods products and demonstrating at food shows. He is moving to the United Kingdom
with his girlfriend to break into the London theatre circuit.
Natasha Judd (Leitch), 1986-91
Natasha Judd always wanted to be a writer. At Oratia District School, she wrote long rhyming
poems featuring a made-up monster called The Glogetta. Her father still thinks these are her
best works.
Natasha studied communications at Auckland University of Technology, and completed an
MA in Creative Writing at Victoria University, Wellington. She edited for Tearaway Online and
Vibewire.net, and had articles, poetry and short stories published in The Listener, JAAM, Fiction
Plus and Voiceworks.
In 2003, Natasha won the open section of the Bank of New Zealand Katherine Mansfield
Memorial Awards — the youngest writer to win this short story prize in its 44-year history. Her
first novel, Lessons to Learn, has been published by Cape Catley in 2007.
Over the past five years, Natasha has lived in New Zealand, Australia, Korea and the USA,
and worked in jobs that range from checking in guests at a ski resort to managing the
redevelopment of the youth depression awareness website.
In 2007, Natasha’s living in London with her husband Matthew, and working for the
Alzheimer’s Society, writing and managing website content.
Russell Dixon, 1981-86
At Oratia Russell was a member of the soccer, swimming and cross-country teams, the choir
and orchestra. He won the speech cup, swimming cup and drama cup. He has good memories of
the friendly school community, the Stark-Brown picnics, the music festivals at Bruce McLaren
Intermediate, the large adventure playground on the back field, the paper shed at the bottom of
the drive, the centennial celebration with the time capsule, pioneer day, the ‘Oratia My Valley’
song, the school fairs and flower shows. His family had a key to the swimming pool and enjoyed
summers using it.
On leaving Waitakere College, Russell completed a three-year diploma in Hospitality
Management, became a chef and continued to be involved in theatre. For the past seven years
he has been performing professionally in theatre, corporate events and productions throughout
New Zealand.
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The Stark-Brown Picnic
In 1982 Michael Stark-Brown, a local resident, remembering the friendly place Oratia was
when he first came here and the happiness he had enjoyed over the years, decided to set up a
trust in memory of his late wife, Grace. These funds were to be used for the children of Oratia,
(the school, the kindergarten, the playcentre and the Sunday school) so that they could have an
annual picnic.When Michael died he left a further sum in his will to ensure that enough money
would be available to give the pupils a good time. The Public Trust Office administers the trust
fund and the income from the fund goes to the Stark-Brown Trust Committee.This committee
meets with representatives of the school, kindergarten, play centre and Sunday school to organise
the picnic. Using the fund, entertainers are engaged to provide an exciting family evening, and
children are supplied with free goodies on the day. Families are invited to join in and bring
along their own picnic meal or barbecue.
The first picnic was held at the school in 1982. Children took part in sack races, egg and
spoon races and a tug-o-war, and each was given a bag with stationery items. Food including
locally grown fruit was provided.
In 1983 a fleet of buses took 500 children across the harbour bridge to Long Bay. A generous
budget of $1200 provided the transport, drinks, sweets or ice blocks and entertainment from a
People in Parks group.The school committee took charge of the barbecue.All succeeding picnics
(with no picnic in 1988) have been held at the school. Magicians, clowns, music groups, jugglers
with flaming torches,The Aunties entertainment group, a bouncy castle and a didgeridoo player
have all made appearances as part of the entertainment, but the most popular item has been
Wally the Worm.
The principal and staff from the school, with help from the kindergarten and Sunday school
committees, have had significant involvement with the running of the picnics. Each year’s picnic
has been an enjoyable community event, centred around the children.
From 1986 the financial situation of the picnic trust resulted in considerably less money
being available. In 2003 the committee began seeking outside funding and has received grants
from the Oratia Ratepayers and Residents Association and the Waitakere Community Board
Wellbeing fund. The school has also funded some activities.
Hylton Crowsen, a member of the picnic committee since its inception and chairman (after
Paddy Marshall) from 1983 until 2005, collated a tribute booklet to Grace and Michael StarkBrown in 2006. A copy is available in the Oratia Folk Museum and at the school.
J.M. Stark-Brown Scholarship Bequest
As well as setting up the trust to provide for an annual picnic for Oratia children, Michael StarkBrown left in his will a bequest to provide scholarship assistance for former pupils of Oratia
School who attend Lincoln College or Massey University (including the Albany campus).
Recipients of the scholarship must have attended Oratia School for at least one year, and
the course or courses to be studied would usually be of an agricultural or horticultural nature,
though the Public Trust Office has a significant power of discretion in deciding who will be
recipients of the scholarships.
Since the commencement of the scholarship in January 1982 a sum of approximately
$90,043 has been granted to nine former pupils.
As the trust fund will be available in perpetuity, qualified candidates could well be able to
avail themselves of this very generous help in years to come.
Ex-pupils who have made use of the Trust express gratitude for the financial help and have
mostly used the money to pay for their course books. They include Aaron Beckham, Matthew
Bell, Jill Byers and Emily Scragg.
Wally the Worm makes an appearance at the Stark-Brown picnic.
76
77
The School Hall
A group of committed people came together
in 1993 to make the vision of a new school
hall a reality. Throughout the whole of the
project Cal Greer, Pam Thomas and Jocelyn
McAlpine hardly missed a meeting of the
committee that I chaired.
We needed to raise a substantial amount, as
the funding agencies would only contribute
so much. To do this we had a series of
fundraising events including two garden
rambles, with ten gardens to view each time
and Devonshire teas served at two of them. Also well supported was a garden party at Annie
Whittle’s place near the TV mast in Waiatarua, with a jazz band and string quartet. We had raffles
and asked for donations from past pupils as well as getting funding from country fairs and ‘athons’.
The architect Brian Keyes came up with a design we immediately loved. His design fitted
perfectly with the Sunshine block, which is currently the senior school classrooms.
It was not difficult to get support for this
project from parents as they knew how hard
it was for staff to deliver the curriculum
without a school hall.Also, holding assemblies
was always hard as there was no space to
accommodate the whole school, so they
had taken place on the senior playground,
weather permitting.
Ultimately we could not have built
the hall without the support of the ASB
Charitable Trust, Lotteries and the Ministry
of Education, which together provided twothirds of the funding.
We were also indebted to past pupils and
parents such as Miro and Doris Sumich, who
provided the funding for the three-sided
clock in the clock tower.
Turning the first sod. Miro Sumich, Tom Chapman (oldest
past pupil), Levi Crookes-Heywood (youngest pupil).
78
Julian Bogalo lovingly restored the old school bell that was located after some hunting down,
in the back garden of an Oratia resident. Many other people supported the project and the full
list is held at the school in a leather-bound book at the front entranceway to the hall.
The hall finally opened in December 1998 and everyone who was involved with this project
is very proud to have been a part of providing such a delightful and functional building for
future generations at the school.
Jan Brown
Official opening of our school hall.
79
The 125th Jubilee
The first meeting for the 125th Jubilee Committee was held in May of 2003, attended by Rusty
Gash,Val Lyon, Jocelyn McAlpine, Jan Brown, Fiona Drummond and Pam Thomas.
The group gradually grew with a balance of community members and school staff, who
decided that the jubilee would be held late in 2007. It was unanimously decided to commission
a sculpture that incorporated Oratia’s orcharding and schoolchildren with the Waitakeres as a
backdrop. It would be placed at the intersection of Shaw and West Coast Roads.The commission
was given to local sculptor Toby Twiss, and a fundraising schedule was set.
The committee organised a database, publicity, a website, fundraising, site preparation,
publicity and consent requirements. By December the group had become an incorporated
society under the name of Oratia School and Community Development Group and by February
of 2004 had been awarded a grant from the Creative Communities Fund.
Allan Sumich offered his services to do a spit for us that could be in conjunction with
an event, June Dicks (past pupil) and her husband offered to set up a database, the Endt family
offered their gardens, Artisan wines gave wine and offered a percentage of their sales at events,
David Vale and family offered their expertise for publication and design of printed materials,
Matt Hall-Smith set up the website, and Peter Dowling took on editing of the book.
A grant of $5000 from the South Auckland Charitable Trust went towards a maquette of the
sculpture, and a Historical Day was held with photographs, speakers and afternoon tea, funded
by a Community Wellbeing grant. This was followed in 2006 by a late-afternoon function at
the Endt’s property, with meats cooked by Allan Sumich, wines by Artisan and the background
music of Westumbria.
During this time the school had held meetings and begun planning for 2007. Studies during
the year would be related to ‘time bringing about change’. This allowed for coverage of a wide
range of aspects that included occupations within the community, our physical environment,
technology, leisure activities, changes within the school and associated topics.
Also within this year the gathering of content for the companion book for the original
Little School in the Valley was gathering momentum. A magazine for the current year’s pupils and
staff is also to be published.
In 2007 subgroups were formed and responsibilities shared, with reporting back at each
meeting. Committee members demonstrated their support and willingness to give huge amounts
of time and skills voluntarily. April 2007 saw a further successful fundraiser, the Autumnal
Ramble, where some very supportive and cooperative landowners allowed a large group of
people to walk through their properties and learn the history of the Oratia Valley.
At time of writing in mid-2007, resource
and building consents have been given, other
consents are in the pipeline, the database is
being finalised, the website is regularly being
updated, the various areas that will ensure
the success of the jubilee have been set, the
book is with the editor, and costings and
fine-tuning are now the priorities.
The sculpture maquette.
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81
Appendices
Appendices
Staffing over the Past 25 Years
Teachers
Memorial Awards
1959-61, 1965-93, 2002-2004
Mrs Judy Harré (Scale A, Snr Tchr)
The dux of Oratia District School was awarded the Petrina M. Theet Memorial award
until 1975; subsequently it has been the Lucia Parkin Memorial Award. 1982 Ana Jolly
1983 Matthew Barnett
1984 Richard Thomas
1985 Jeremy McCaughey
1986 Kirsten Henry
1987 Nicholas Smith
1988 Juliet Casey
1989 Jeffrey Hoffman
1990 Sarah Ashton; Paul Davies
1991 Jacqueline Young
1992 Julia Vale
1993 Samuel Ashton
1994 Gabrielle Shrives; Jared Tannahill
1995 Alexandra Cardinal
1996 Nathania Reyes
1997 Rohan Fletcher
1998 Laura Counsell; Chad Edwards
1999 Nicholas Ogle
2000 Joshua McArthur
2001 Keegan Hume
2002 Warrick Isaachsen
2003 Madeline Henry
2004 Michael Brown
2005 Miro Harré
2006 Campbell Brown
1969, 1981-86, 1995-2005
Mrs Bev Dixon
1969-94, 1995-2004 Mrs Anne Rogers (Scale A, Snr Tchr.)
1971, 1973-76, 1979-81
Mrs Sheena Spittles
1973-83
Mr Warwick Blight (D.P.)
1973-89
Mrs Betty Cochrane (Scale A, Snr Tchr.)
1973-89
Mrs Gloria Whiting (A. P.)
1975-94
Mr Mike Jolly
1977-87
Mrs Rose Steer
1977-88
Mrs Joy Thomson
1978-80
Mrs Unkitza Middledorp
1979-85
Ms Lisa Burke (Er)
1979-80, 1988-present
Mrs Pam Thomas (Snr Tchr, A. P., D. P.)
1980-81
Mr Tony Middledorp
1980-83
Mrs Robin Bonner
1981
Mrs Glenys Knox
82
1981-82
Mr Irvin West (Principal)
1981-82, 1999-present
Mrs Cheryl Hartnell
1981-83, 1990-2004 Mrs Cath Dye (Snr Tchr)
1982-83
Mrs Jenny Kelly
1982-85
Mrs Karen Clarke
1982-85, 1998-present
Mrs Merilyn Wills
1982-83
Mr Simon Jenkins
1982-83
Mrs Ann Maree Molloy
1982-86
Mr Allan Fowler
1983-88
Miss Louise Kordina (Wilkenson)
1983-84 Mrs Helen King
1983-85
Mr John Kirby (Principal)
1983-84
Mr Allan Dennis
1983-84
Mrs Caroline Northcott
1984-85
Miss Sharon Logan
1984-87
Mrs Robyn Gate
1984-85, 1987-88
Mrs Leslie Mahoney
83
84
1984-87
Mr Neil Mahoney (D.P.)
1986
Mrs Janet Gilford
1989
Mrs Helen Hart
1993-present
Mr Cal Greer (Principal)
1984
Mrs Janette Franks
1986-89
Mrs Norma Hall
1989-99
Miss Robyn Firth (Joyce)
1993-98
Mrs Helen Taylor
1984
Mrs Barbara Jackson
1986-89
Mr Peter Buffet (Oratia and Lone Kauri)
1989-97
Mrs Ann Pearson
1993
Mara Smith (Lone Kauri)
1984-91, 2000-2001
Mrs Joanne Duxfield
1987-88
Ms C. Leonard
1989-2000
Mrs Wendy Tannahill
1994
Mrs Patricia House
1985-89
Mrs Barbara Oram
1987-88
Miss W. van Heeswijk
1987
Mrs Barbara Hammond
1994-95
Mrs Jenny Ellis
1985-92
Mr Joe Younger (Principal)
1989, 1992, 1994-98, 2002-present
Mrs Kathy Wadsworth
(Scale A, Snr Tchr, A.P.)
1985
Miss Adams
1987-89, 1992-95
Mrs Christine Shadbolt
1985
Mrs Angela Hickey
1988-present
Ms Jacqueline Thomson
1985
Mrs Dorothy Douglas
1988-91
Mr Colin Jacobsen (D.P.)
1985-95
Mrs Murielle Gill
1988
Mrs Michelle Wharton-Allen
1985-86
Miss Rosemary Craig
1988-90
Ms Nerissa Carr-Neale
1985-86, 1990
Mr Mike Pocklington
1988
Ms Michelle Thompson
1985
Miss Viv Thompson
1988
Mrs Bev Golding
1985-present
Mrs Bev Thompson (Lone Kauri)
1988-89
Mrs Zoe Evison
1985-91 Mrs Pam Jolly
1988
Mr Warren Wheeler
1986-93, 2000-present
Mrs Debbie Brown
1989-97
Mrs Ellis Zwart
1986
Mrs Stevens
1989-95
Mrs Rosalie Hill
1990-96
Miss Lisa Katavich
1990-91
Mrs Vicki Marquet
1990-91
Mrs Bridget Brent
1994
Miss Jenny Osbaldiston
1995-96
Ms Nicola Rowan-Armstrong
1995-2001, 2004
Mrs Elaine Bisset
1990-91
Miss Kathryn Garside
1995-2003
Mrs Cheryl Davies-Crook
(Snr Tchr, A.P.)
1990-present
Mrs Viv Mulgrew (Lone Kauri)
1995-2000
Mrs Jo Ann Yukich
1991-present
Mr Dugald Martin (D.P.)
1995-2002
Mrs Angela Whyte
1991-present
Mrs Lyn Harron
(Scale A, Snr Tchr, Scale A)
1996
Ms Gabrielle Van Alphen
1991-present
Mrs Carol Hope (Scale A, Snr Tchr)
1992-93
Mrs Stephanie Julian
1992-99
Mrs Sarah Holland (Richards)
1992
Mrs Joanne Hurley
1996
Mrs Nina Prasad
1996-97, 1999-2000, 2004
Mr Gerald Davis
1996-present
Mrs Susan Frazer (Kellett)
1996-97
Mrs Lindy Goldsmith
85
1996-97
Mrs Linda Andrews
1999-present
Mr Lloyd Wheeler
2003, 2006
Mrs Melanie Tomes
1990-95
Mrs Sue Ashton
1996-present
Miss Sarah Jackson (Harris)
(Scale A, Snr Tchr)
1999-2001
Mr Mark Edwards
2003
Miss Martine Lord
1990-95
Mrs Kerry Downey
2000-2001, 2002
Miss Amanda Shaw
2003-present
Ms Davina Derecourt
1990-present
Mrs Sue Edgerley
2000
Mrs Jan Peach
2003-present
Mrs Marilyn Stacey
1993
Mrs Penny Bogalo
2000-2002
Miss Lianna Rogers
2004-present
Miss Lysette Matthews
1994-present
Mrs Denise Price
2000-2002
Mr James Cliff
2004-present
Miss Kiri Steed
1994-97
Mrs Jackie Parks
2000
Mrs Elizabeth Keal
2004-present
Mrs Jane Robinson
1994-2000
Mrs Stephanie Day
2000
Miss Jenny Whittington
2005-present
Mrs Catherine Rowllings
1994-98
Mrs Tania de Bazin (Plowman)
2000-present
Mrs Carol Walden
2005
Mrs Jane Grimmond
1994
Mrs Helen Counsell
2000-present
Mrs Sharon Bushby
2005
Mrs Dianne Shariff (Lone Kauri)
1994-95
Mrs Bianca Vasey
2001, 2006-present
Ms Gillian McCloud
2005-present
Mrs Kathy Chandler
1995-98
Mrs Liza Brown
2001-2002
Ms Clare Paterson
2006
Mrs Jo Hall
1995-97
Mrs Phillipa Colman (Nicholson)
2001-2004, 2007
Miss Lee Willering
2006-present
Miss Rebecca Pirret
1995
Mrs Sue Forgie
2001-present
Miss Lisa Johanson (Lilley)
2006-present
Miss Krystal Anderson
1995-present
Mrs Rita Dougal
2002-present
Ms Judith Serjeant
2007-present
Ms Rebecca Draper
1995-2000
Mrs Nyree Essex
2003-2004
Mr Jake Taplin
Teacher Aides
1995-present
Mrs Sue Peggs
1996-97
Mr Stephen Roberts
1997-present
Mrs Kay Spray
1997-2000
Mrs Joanna Elliott
1997-99
Mrs Karen Pragert
1998-2000
Mrs Jill McArthur
1998
Ms Lorraine Mundy
1998-2002
Mrs Rebecca Marshall
1998-2003
Mrs Sandra Palmer
1998-present
Mrs Desiree Pillay
1998-2000, 2002-2006
Miss Fleur Purdue
1998
Ms Cecile L’Estrange
1999
Ms Helen Kay
1999
Mrs Neena Taneja
1999-present
Miss Joanne Clarke
86
2003-present
Mrs Karen Holley
1990-92
Mrs Kerry Mayer
1995-97
Mrs Sue Ryan
87
1995-2001
Mrs Suzanne O’Donnell
2002-2003
Ms Cynthia Hunt
1996-present
Mrs Cathy Hughes
1984-2001
Mrs Clara Jobsis
1995-2003
Mrs Lottie Tiavaasui-Martin
2003-2006
Mrs Caroline Leader
2002-2003
Mrs Kerry Downey
?-85
Mr Mark Robertson
1996-97
Ms Debbie Young
2003-present Mrs Lisa Rowe
2003-present
Mrs Wendy Roigard
1985-?
Mrs Smith
1996-97
Mrs Donna Feavearyear
2003-2004
Mrs Justine Paice
Library
1985-?
Mr Rex Embling
1996-97
Mrs Deidre Noel
2006-present
Mrs Rachel van Polanen
1997
Mrs Nova Gibson
2007-present
Mrs Rebecca Draper
Dental Nurses
1997-2000
Mrs Diane Loe
Teacher Support
Mrs Cushla Hollings
1974-96
Mrs Margaret Jones
1987-95
Mrs Mona Cooper
Caretakers
Mr van Glabbeek
1989-92
Mrs Valerie Matthews
?-87
Mr Jim Peters
1993-93
Mr Damien Brown
1987-94
Mr Bill Cooper
1993-93
Ms Rosina Poulson
1994-96
Mr Colin Tait
1994-present
Mr Patrick Ware
1996-97
Mr Bill Adie
1994
Ms Janice Russell
1997-2006
Mr Ben Yeardley
1994-?
Mr Craig Downey
2007-present
Mr Bruce Smith
1994-99
Mr Gary McAlpine
Cleaners
1994-99
Mr Meatuai Kita
?-84
Mrs Corrine Perrett
1995-2002 Miss Clare Hughes
1984-85
Mr Brett Robertson
1998-2002
Mr Paul McAlpine
1997-99
Mrs Ngaire Eaddy
1998-2003
Mrs Barbara Fletcher
1998
Ms Inez Clark
1998-99
Mrs Iris Comuzzo
1998-2003
Mrs Jan Carey
1998-2000
Mrs Donna Whitehouse
1999-2000
Mrs Jean Andrews
1999-2000
Mrs Sue Sedon
1999
Mr Chris Campbell
2000
Mrs Lina Stone
88
1993-96
Mrs Cathy Hughes
2001-present
Mrs Glenys Taylor
2005-present
Miss Sophie Wills
Office
1967-94
Mrs Val Lyon
1973-95
Mrs Margaret Jones
1995-present
Mrs Jocelyn McAlpine
1995-2000
Mrs Penny Bogalo
1996-2001
Mrs Robyn Reber
1984-present
Mrs Dorothy Evans
Mrs Margaret Donahey
?-89
Ms Margaret Blake
1986-2001
Mr Frank Jobsis
89
1999-2001
Mrs Julie Watson
1998-present
Mrs Pam White
1989-91
Mr Brent Cederman (Treasurer)
1998-2007 Mrs Liza Brown (Chair 1999)
1999
Ms Tracey Aicken
Gardeners
1989-98
Mr Stephen Parkes (Treasurer)
2001-2004
Mrs Shirley Campbell
1989-93
Mrs Judy Harré (Staff rep/Sec)
2001-2004
Mr Ross Davenport
1989-98
Mr Kubi Witten-Hannah (Chair 1990)
2003-2004
Mr Nick de Zoete
1990-91
Mr Rod Wills (co-opted)
2003-present
Mr Greg Fletcher
1991-94
Mr Cleve Barlow (co-opted)
2004-2007
Ms Sarah Jackson (Staff rep)
1991
Mrs Jenny Smith (Minute Sec)
2004-present
Mr Peter Dowling (Chair 2007)
1991-2001
Dr John Sumich (Chair 1999)
2007-present
Mrs Christine Healey
1992-94
Mrs Beverley Blake
2007-present
Mrs Carol Hope (Staff Rep)
1993-present
Mr Cal Greer
2007-present
Mr Kevin Long (Treasurer)
1994-2004
Mrs Lyn Harron (Staff Rep)
2007-present
Mr Chris Stone
Board of Trustees
1994-2007
Mrs Jan Brown
2007-present
Mr Erik van den Top
2003-present
Mrs Dana House
1989-95
Mrs Bridget Brent (Chair 1989)
1995-2001
Mrs Helen Penman
Community Consultation Committee,
1989
2005-present
Mrs Pat Wood
1989-92
Mr Joe Younger
1995-98
Mr Tutai Kopa
2006-present
Mrs Stacey Harris
1989-92
Mrs Jocelyn McAlpine
(co-opted - Financial Manager)
1998-2007
Mr Ian Lewington (Treasurer)
Val Cawson
Brent Cederman
Sue Forgie
Jim Harré
Steve Parkes
Wendy Tannahill
Rod Wills
1999
Miss Laura Bogalo
1999
Ms Michelle Walker
1999-2000
Mrs Sue Sedon
1999-2000
Mr Simon Bogalo
2000
Mr Dominic Hartnett
2000
Ms Erica Close
2000
Ms Raewyn Hutchinson
2000
Mr Chris Hughes
2003-2005
Mrs Tina Chan Tung
2003-present
Mrs Elaine Hewitt
Lunchroom
1999-present
Mrs Shona Stacey
90
1992-93
Mr Chris Timms
1998-99
Mrs Kerry Downey
1999-2000
Mrs Hillary Thacker
2002
Mrs Ann-Maree Sapich
2002-present
Mr Maurice Mitchell
2005-present
Ms Natalie Spear
School Committee Chairs
1983 Mr Tony Lane
1986 Mr Steve Glucina
1987 Mr Ian McCallum
1989-95
Mrs Sue Forgie
1998-2001
Mrs Ingrid O’Hanlon (co-opted)
We apologise for any errors or omissions.
91
The last words
125 Year Jubilee Committee
Richard Walters (Year 3)
‘I think Oratia School is good, except when I try to climb up the wall of the Year 3 and Year
4 playground, because it is too steep. I really want to stay in Room 9 because it’s got the Star
of the Day and I think Oratia kids are good to play with. I want the sundial to stay there and
also I want the classes to stay where they are because if we have more classes we would have a
shorter field.
‘I really like lunchtime because I can play with my friends and I like fitness because I can
learn Jump Jam. SSR [Sustained Silent Reading] is good because we can read the books that we
get from the library and I like doing the group box and using the calculator at maths.’
Victoria Whittaker (two weeks at school)
‘I like Jump Jam ’cause I like dancing and I like making egg-tray caterpillars. I like doing stories
about things like the hail stones on the bark. My friends like me. My teacher tells me to play
inside when it’s raining outside. Tia [the school cat] can go under the gate and I know her
because my brother was here before.’
Richard and Victoria are direct descendants of the Cochran family. Five consecutive generations have attended
the school from the early days of the part-time school.
Back row: Glenys Taylor, Michael Davis, Vic Sunde, Cal Greer, Val Lyon, Mary Glucina,
Vic Glucina, Adith Stoneman, Gus Nola
Seated: Pam Thomas, Miro Sumich, Jan Brown, Fiona Drummond, Rusty Gash, Judy Harré
Front: Jane Binsley, Jocelyn McAlpine, Tracey Murray
By 2032, 150 years of students will have been through Oratia District School.
They will have worked and played with members of the many generations
of Oratia families and experienced the uniqueness of this community where
traditions survive.What will the next quarter century bring? We look towards
Oratia remaining a community where students, teachers and their families
proudly acknowledge their connections with the little school in the valley.
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93
Acknowledgements
GeoSmart Limited — permission to use aerial photo (p.6)
Oratia Apple — publicity
Oratia Ratepayers and Residents Association — information and publicity
Waitakere City Council Wellbeing Fund — grant of $1000 towards printing
Waiatarua Community News — publicity
Michael Butler — historical archive
Hylton Crowsen — making available for use his Grace and Michael Stark-Brown booklet
Robin Binsley, Graeme Gash — artworks
Kerry Gould — making available her articles and photos from the Oratia Apple
Bob Harvey — permission to use extracts from Little School in the Valley
Mike Pocklington — mihi
Raewyn Robertson — local history librarian, Henderson library
Contributors — Matthew Barnett, Botica family, Bridget Brent, Jan Brown, Liza Brown, Geoff
Davidson, Dean family, Bev Dixon, Russell Dixon, Peter Dowling, Mate Dragicevich, Fiona
Drummond, Cath Dye, Rusty Gash, Ewen Gilmour, Cal Greer, Dave Harré, Natasha Judd,
Larsen family, Val Lyon, Lindsay Malam, Dugald Martin, Jocelyn McAlpine, Helen Medlyn,
Carolyn Melling-Endt, Tracey Murray, Cyril Nola, Gillian Painter, Tony and Jenny Palmer,
Diane and Alan Sumich, John Sumich, Boyd Swinburn, Zlatomir and Zora Vitasavich, Helen
Vlasich, Richard Walters, Irvin West, Jack Whittaker, Victoria Whittaker, Kubi Witten-Hannah,
Debbie Wood
Oratia District School staff — time and assistance
Helio Design and Print — Dave, Cheryl and Julia Vale
Jane Binsley and Graham Hepburn — proofreading
Photo Life Studios Ltd, Ted Scott, Natalie Spear, Lloyd Wheeler — photography
All past pupils for their memories and all the people who helped us to write their stories by
meeting with us, or provided articles and information.
Unfortunately due to space constraints it was not possible to include all the material that was
submitted. Some of this can be accessed in the school library.
94
The Little School
in the Valley
Our little school — with a roll of over 500 pupils no longer so
‘little’ — retains a unique community character and a tradition of
excellence. This publication captures the history and character of
the Oratia district, school business and highlights, and personal
recollections from those who have studied, taught and volunteered
at this much-loved school.
The Little School in the Valley: 25 Years On
Nestled in the Oratia Valley west of Auckland, Oratia District
School has served its community for 125 years. Published for the
125th Jubilee in November 2007, The Little School in the Valley:
25 Years On carries on where the 1982 centennial book left off to
celebrate the school’s history, particularly the last 25 years.
25 Years On
Oratia District School 1882-2007