On Saturday, 12 October, 130 guests, including friends, whanau, and past students and staff, gathered to celebrate the achievements of Collegians Judge Wilson Isaac, Roimata Templeton, and Daniel Vettori and recognise their significant contributions. Among the attendees were past staff members John Lloyd, Andrew Botting, Peter Hollister, Peter Gilbert, former Headmaster Grant Lander, and Tihoi directors John and Christine Furminger. Also in attendance was 2023 Collegian Awardee Professor John Ormiston. The evening was filled with warm tributes, humility, and heartfelt memories.

Judge Wilson Isaac, in his speech, paid tribute to the St Paul's staff who helped shape his path, particularly recalling Rod Hamel, Peter Hill, and former headmaster Reg Hornsby. He shared a humorous anecdote about Mr Hornsby, who, upon meeting Wilson, remarked, “You look like a pole-vaulter—short, but with long arms.” Wilson quipped, “Where I come from, those were the qualities of a good shearer.” Sport and athletics played a significant role in his school life, with Wilson excelling in the First XV rugby team and the 1969 and 1970 Athletics Teams under Vic Matthews. His whaanau graced the evening with a moving waiata in response to his award, followed by nostalgic campfire-style singing, bringing back memories of ‘the old days.’ Judge Isaac was honoured for his nearly three decades of service in the Maaori Land Court and his expertise in Maaori land law.

Roimata Templeton, who had just returned from Germany to live in Aotearoa that same week, gave a breathtaking performance of As If We Never Said Goodbye. Her powerful rendition brought tears to many in the audience, showcasing her immense talent and growth. Her former vocal coach, David Griffiths, was in attendance to honour her accomplishments, proudly noting, “She’s ten times the Roimata she was when she left.” Roimata’s daughter, Lily, was also present to witness her mother’s achievements. As one of the first five girls to enrol at St Paul’s, Roimata made an early impact by helping introduce the cultural tie and establishing the school’s first dance group. In 2010, she returned to direct and choreograph the school’s production of Sweeney Todd, with several cast members from that production attending the dinner. Roimata’s extensive international theatre career includes roles in major productions such as Cats, Beauty & The Beast, and Mary Poppins, working with industry giants like Disney, Cameron Mackintosh, and Stage Entertainment.

Dan Vettori, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated cricketers, reflected on the confidence he gained as a student at St Paul's. He humorously recounted how headmaster Steve Cole didn’t initially recognise his potential as a spin bowler, but after observing his ‘average’ medium-pace bowling, suggested he try spin and after a first watch he said, “That will do.” Dan credited Mr Cole’s unwavering support with helping him develop the self-assurance he now hopes to instill in his own children. Although Mr Cole was overseas during the event, he sent his heartfelt congratulations to Dan. And another influential cricket coach during his school years was Mr David White.  David went on to also play for New Zealand and was New Zealand’s Chief Executive for many years.  He too sent his aplogies but reconised Dan’s award as outstanding and well deserved.  During a Q&A session, Dan spoke about leadership by example and how he admired players fully dedicated to the game. The evening’s MC, Headmaster Mr Ben Skeen, light-heartedly noted that Dan was the only awardee not to perform and jokingly suggested that Dan’s performance could be a demonstration of his spin-bowling technique. Dan, however, kept the secrets of his spin close to his chest.

Throughout the evening, current St Paul's students showcased their talents, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. Olive-Rose Hapuku opened the event with a beautiful rendition of Pookarekare Ana, followed by a violin performance from Monique James-Thomas. Adi Manda and Arnah Currie, stars of this year’s school production of Little Shop of Horrors, captivated the audience with their duet of Suddenly Seymour.

We congratulate these exceptional Collegians and look forward to remaining connected with them in the coming years. 

View photos of the evening here.