Allan Connolly was the Deputy Director at Tihoi Venture School from 1985 to 1987, alongside Jan and Brian Neville. Remembered for his gentle nature, steady presence, and strong rapport with students, Allan helped shape the Tihoi experience during its early years.

Allan and his wife, Dianna, arrived at Tihoi in February 1985, just after their wedding. Allan taught science and maths and supported the outdoor instructors in delivering the venture programme. Dianna, a radiographer by profession, worked as the school nurse and also taught maths. Together, they formed part of a close-knit team.

When Allan left Tihoi, he gifted a collection of images of Tihoi in action, photos that are part of our Tihoi archives today.

Allan passed away suddenly at his home in Ōmokoroa on 20 July 2025. He is deeply missed by his wife Dianna; their children Sarah and Martin, Rebecca and Zane, Chris and Kyla, Matthew and Rose; and his many grandchildren, who knew him lovingly as ‘Poppy’. Allan was known as a kind and generous man, a devoted family man whose warmth touched all who knew him.

We are grateful for the contribution Allan made to the Tihoi community and to St Paul’s.