Balmoral School Newsletter - 10 October 2025

Upcoming Events

Te Tumuaki / Principal

Kia ora e te whānau

Welcome back to Term 4. We hope you had a lovely break and were able to spend some quality time with your children and wider whānau.

Term 4 is always incredibly busy in schools, with all the events and reports associated with end-of-year events and reporting, as well as preparations for the following year. 

There will be a number of opportunities to participate in school activities over the coming weeks so I hope you all can avail yourself to these events.

Ngā mihi

Malcolm

Congratulations Anna and Mariia

Anna and Mariia Kopytina from Year 4, Hub 12A1, recently participated in the National Artistic Swimming Competition in Wellington, held from September 19 to 23.

They competed in the Duet category for 10 & Under and achieved a fantastic result – 2nd place and silver medals!

We are so proud of their effort and their dedication to their chosen sport.

School Hours - Gate Times

Intermediate Children are welcome onsite from 8:15am
Primary Children are welcome onsite from 8:30am

Gate times:
Pohutukawa Gate: 7am - 9am and 2:50pm - 5:45pm
Rimu Gate: 8:30 - 9am and 2:50pm - 3:20pm
Eldon Road: 8:30am - 9am and 2:50pm - 4pm
St Albans: 8:30am - 9am and 2:50pm - 4pm

The gates close at 9am to ensure late students come through the office. 
If your children are inside school grounds before or after school please note, kids must be supervised by a parent or caregiver before 8:15am Intermediate/8:30am Primary or from 3:10pm.

Primary School News

Ngā pitopito kōrero - Whānau Mahira

Mahira children have been very happy to see all their friends again after the break, and we have jumped straight into new learning. 

Inquiry

Rangi-Hua-Moa was a rangatira (leader) and she once lived at the lake where our school field is today. Our journey into the story of Rangi-Hua-Moa has sparked curiosity about the Moa, why their eggs might have been found by the lake, and what life would be like if the Moa still roamed among us. This term, we’re continuing to learn about the Moa by reading and writing about them, crafting Moa eggs, and preparing for a Museum visit to see a Moa up close!

Have you filled a bucket today?

This term, Mahira has been learning about bucket filling by showing atawhai (kindness) and being a hoa pai (good friend) to others. We read the story “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” and discussed how everyone has an invisible bucket that holds our feelings. When we use kupu atawhai (kind words) and show manaakitanga (care and respect), we help to fill each other's buckets, But when we use unkind words or actions, we take a little bit out and become bucket dippers. 

To bring this learning to life, each student created their own bucket, which we displayed around the classroom. Ākonga went around writing kind messages and placing them in each other's buckets. Each student's face lit up with joy as they read the thoughtful and heartwarming notes from their classmates. 

Maths

In Maths, we have started the term delving into Algebra. We’ve been exploring pattern making in the play, whether it is with cubes and blocks or in our colourful paintings. In our group work, the tamariki have been noticing the patterns in our problems and have been using the term “unit of repeat” for a repeating pattern.  We are starting to notice patterns everywhere.

My New Gallery

Intermediate School News

Hub 2 Inquiry

Currently for Inquiry, Hub 2 are looking at how they can inspire positive change in both the school and wider community. They investigated which features are important to people when living in a city, and how the Council manages the running of the Auckland region. They then decided to focus on how they could improve their local community, and more specifically, Balmoral School.

To do this, based on the Auckland City Council structure and their own interests, they have formed three groups - Arts and Culture, Parks and Recreation, and Transport and Waste. 

The transport and waste group have decided on adding more outdoor seating as their first priority. They have walked around the site, sketched designs, made mood boards and are beginning to write draft proposals that they can present.

The Parks and Recreation group focused initially on reopening the spinner in the Intermediate playground. They have had to do a lot of research, including interviewing Malcolm about both the health and safety, and financial complexities of the project. They have made posters, slideshows and infographics based on all this information, and are currently thinking about their next steps.

The Arts and Culture group began by thinking about a piece of uniform that could be added next year as part of the Centenary celebrations. This is an ongoing project. They have also started planning the Year 8 social, and are having to look at budgeting and event planning as part of this work.

We look forward to seeing the results of all these endeavours. 

Last term our class learned three different Pacific Island dances as part of our cultural language weeks. We were split into three groups. The boys learned the Tongan Mako with Charlie, one of the girls' groups learned Tongan Tau'olunga with Saupuatina, and the other group learned the Cook Island Ura with Georgia. Each group practiced their dance moves during class time, learning not only the movements, but also the cultural meanings behind them. It was a fun and challenging experience, especially making sure everyone stayed in time with the music and worked well as a team. In the end the experience helped us connect more with our cultures and to appreciate the beauty of Pacific Island traditions.

By Georgia and Saupuatina

Mount Albert Grammar School Testing for 2026

Academic Testing

All Year 9 2026 students will be involved in MAGS academic testing at MAGS as follows: 

Students should assemble outside the Main Hall before 8.30am

Sports Academy Trials: 12.30pm-2.30pm approx

Separate Girls/Boys Sports Academy trials, for those students who wish to be considered, will be held as per the table above.  Following the academic testing, students interested in academy trials will report to the Grandstand and have a brief lunch break before participating in their chosen Sports Academy.  Please bring lunch and a drink, sunhat/sunblock and appropriate sports attire.  

IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE:   Hockey

Most Academy trials will take place on Friday 31 October for girls and Monday 3 November for boys. The exception to this is Hockey, as due to safety, the courts will only be used for one sport at a time so the trials for both girls and boys Hockey trials:

• Hockey trials will be on Monday 3 November at 12.30pm (for both girls and boys) 

Please ensure they report to the Grandstand at that time in appropriate sports attire.

Dance and Drama Academies

Following academic testing, students who wish to apply for either the Dance or Drama Academy, will be able to meet briefly with Jacqui Cesan, Director of Co-curricular Arts.  

Note - this does not prevent them from attending the sports academy trials.

Sports Leagues

Netball 2025

The 2025 netball season was another successful year for Balmoral School. We had a record number of teams entered in the Auckland Netball Windmill Park competition entering 15 teams. This year was the first time Balmoral School entered teams into the Year 1/2 competition. We were thrilled to have 3 teams in this age grade.

Auckland Netball Prizewinners
At intermediate level netball, the teams begin to play in a competitive league. Term 3 saw our teams enter the Championship round where Year 7A Kauri and Year 8B Rata placed and attended the Auckland Netball Prizegiving held at St Johns Netball Centre.

Balmoral Year 7A Kauri - Winner Grade 7A, Section 2
Balmoral Year 8B Rata - Runner Up Grade 8C, Section 2
Congratulations to these teams.

Year 8 Totara

Year 8 Totara had a strong start to the season in A Grade, Section 2 at Windmill Park. They were moved up to Section 1 in the Championship Round and met some stiff competition, eventually finishing fourth overall.  Once again the team were fortunate to have Mary Pickering coach them and special shout out to Ashley Patterson for stepping in to cover the games and training sessions when Mary was away, as well as leading them through the AIMS competition.  The team maintained their positive attitude and team spirit even when they played some very strong teams towards the end of the season. They always took on board coaching feedback and it was super impressive to see their improvement over the course of the season in executing set plays, anticipating the ball and moving into space. 

Result: Y8A Grade, Section 1: 4th place
Coach: Mary Pickering
Manager: Claire Woods

Year 8 Rata

If there’s one word to sum up our season, it’s teamwork. It has been a real pleasure watching Rata grow their skills and gel as a team, supporting each other through every game. Rain or shine, they gave their all and we celebrated some fantastic wins and learnt resilience through the tougher losses. The highlight was the final match, which was an absolute cracker. The whole team played with more heart, soul and fire than we had seen all season, finishing on a well-deserved high. Placing as runners-up in their grade is an achievement they should all be immensely proud of.

Result: Y8 C Grade, Section 2: 2nd place
Coach: Caroline Herrick
Manager: Kate Rylett

Year 7 Kauri

It has been a fantastic season for Kauri. All the players were super dedicated and attended 1-2 practices per week. They listened and put into practice the skills they were taught. Their game continued to improve over the season. They came to each game with great attitudes, great dedication and always trying their best.This culminated in a successful competition winning all our games in the Championship round to take the win. Thank you to our parents on the sideline supporting the team each and every week too.

Result: Y7 A Grade, Section 2: 1st place
Coach: Meredith Hughes
Manager: Anna Stokes

Year 7 Rimu

This year Rimu has improved massively as a team and as individual players. They handled their wins and losses well, and they were always striving to do better. This team was a pleasure to coach and I enjoyed the season with them. I am very proud of the team that we came third in our section. 

Result: Y7 B Grade, Section 1: 3rd place
Coach: Pippa MacDonald
Manager: Carla Keall

Year 7 Nikau

What a season for Team Nikau! With most of the players new to netball, this year was all about learning the game, building confidence, and having a whole lot of fun.

We may not have stacked up a long list of wins, but what we did gain was even better — teamwork, determination, and a whole lot of laughs. Every game was a chance to grow,  and it showed in how much everyone improved and supported each other throughout the season.

We also had the pleasure of being guided by Coach Riley, who grew alongside the team in his own coaching journey. His energy and encouragement added to the positive vibe, helping create a space where players could learn, laugh, and enjoy the game.

Team Nikau brought incredible spirit to every match — full of encouragement, laughter, and genuine camaraderie. From surprise intercepts to sideline giggles, the season was packed with memorable moments that brought everyone closer together.

Thanks to all the players, supporters, and everyone involved for making this season such a great experience. Here's to more fun, growth, and maybe a few extra wins next time around!

Result: Y7 C Grade, Section 1: 6th place
Coach: Riley Haagh
Managers: Zareena Sameer & Georgina Parr

Year 6 Whero

It's the end of an era for the Balmoral Y6 Whero netball team.  Many of these girls have played together since year 3 and they've had a terrific final season.

With only two losses and the rest wins or draws, the girls really consolidated all the skills and techniques they have been learning over the past few years, along with an awesome team spirit and excellent sportspersonship.  They also showed great determination at the Eden Albert netball tournament in late August, rallying from two early losses and finishing with two wins.   

It is the end of four years of coaching by Sarah and Shona, and we want to thank the parents and supporters on the sidelines who have been there every week (rain, hail or shine!)  We are very proud of this lovely crew of girls and hope their love of netball continues for years to come! 

Coaches/Managers: Sarah Johnstone-Smith & Shona Tagg

Year 6 Kikorangi

The girls had a super fun season with many exciting games, some particularly memorable where the girls put their skills in place, got the flow and were unstoppable!  We were the team whose efforts were far greater than their leader-board success, with many extremely close games.  The team really upheld the Balmoral spirit, playing fair, giving their all, keeping a positive attitude no matter the score.  Coach Hannah markedly increased their skill levels with fun drills at practice and top tips during the game.  The team displayed incredible resilience when the games were hard (often with opponents double their height), learning different skills and tricks to manage the challenges faced.  The girls all embodied excellent sportsmanship on and off the court, by playing fairly and treating opponents with respect, while also supporting each other and enthusiastically cheering on their teammates.  We are incredibly proud of what the girls achieved this season and are certain they all had a heap of fun doing it, which is the main thing!

Coach: Hannah Jack
Managers: Simonne Elliot & Merrin Rosnell

Year 5 Mawhero

Year 5 Mawhero had a fantastic season full of growth, teamwork, and fun! The girls showed great commitment and enthusiasm throughout, turning up to trainings and games ready to give it their all. Under Brody’s guidance, they developed their netball skills and game sense, and it was awesome to see their confidence grow week by week. The team demonstrated excellent sportsmanship, supporting each other and showing respect to their opponents.  A huge thank you to Brody for his energy and encouragement as coach, and to all the parents and supporters who cheered from the sidelines. It’s been a joy to manage this lovely group of girls and watch them thrive on and off the court!

Coach: Brody Nelson
Manager: Anna Hoggard

Year 5 Kakariki

Year 5 Kakariki have recently finished an amazing Netball season filled with teamwork, sportsmanship and resilience. The team worked hard throughout the season and improved so much. Well done on their fantastic season!

Coach: Emily O’Neil
Manager: Zainib Jasat

Year 4 Weka

What an awesome season it has been for the Year 4 Weka netball team! Every player gave their best each week, showing great effort and always coming ready to learn and improve.

The team spirit has been amazing with the players supporting each other on and off the court, cheering for their teammates, and kept smiling even when the games were tough. It has been great to see their skills grow and their confidence shine through.

Most of all, the Year 4 Weka team had heaps of fun playing together and really enjoyed being part of the competition. A huge thank you to all the families who came along to support, your encouragement made the season even more special!

We would also like to give a special thank you to our manager, Kate Ferraro, for all of her support and organisation throughout the season."
Coach/Star Helper: Molly Marshall
Manager: Kate Ferraro

Year 4 Kiwi

What a fantastic season it’s been for the Kiwis! We kicked things off with a mix of experienced players and some who had never played before – but that didn’t stop us. With lots of determination, great teamwork, and turning up to practice every Monday with big smiles, the team grew stronger every week.

Each game was full of effort and excitement, and by the end of the season, every single player had made amazing progress. It was wonderful to see the kids showing such great sportsmanship, supporting each other, and bringing their energy and enthusiasm to every match.

Well done, Kiwis!
Coach/Star Helper/Manager: Rachel Pratt

Year 2 Tui

The Y2 Tui team had a fun and confident first season of netball, coached by awesome Star-helpers Elise Grenwell and Nina Kayes. All members of the team showed commitment by arriving to games on time, working on their netball skills and supporting each other on and off-court. The team's resilience was tested on some wintry afternoons and against some challenging competitors but the team showed determination and always finished games with positive attitudes. The players' hard work each week was showing at the end of the season where they were finding space and  moving down the court and chasing down some great intercepts- incredible mahi tahi Tuis!

Coaches/Star Helpers: Elise Greenwell & Nina Kayes
Managers: Laura Tolutau & Charlotte Cull

Year 3 Kea

What a fantastic season it has been for the Year 3 Balmoral Keas! This was the first season of netball for everyone and all the girls brought so much energy and enthusiasm to Windmill Road each Thursday. With a team of 10, the girls rotated through the positions to give everyone a chance to try them out. The girls learnt the game quickly, developing their skills and confidence and showing determination, resilience and teamwork both on and off the court. The girls also built friendships and enjoyed themselves along the way. Well done Keas on showing up eager to play (including on some pretty rainy winter evenings!) and putting in your best efforts each week. We hope to see you all back on the court to enjoy another season of netball next year. 

Coaches/Star Helpers/Managers: Kimberly Falconer & Kate Haycock

Year 1/2 Whio

This was the first year of netball for team Whio. They began the season with an excitement that could only be described as enthusiastic and effervescent. And only be displayed by year one and two first time netballers. Throughout the season they worked on the fundamental netball skills such as passing, minimal stepping, running into space and of course shooting through a hula hoop!
What a special introduction to netball for these young people. It’s all about fun and friendships!
A special thank you to our fab star helpers, Alex and Georgia!

Coaches/Star Helpers: Alex Baily & Georgia Holmes
Manager: Vanessa Goodwin

Year 1 Kaka

It’s been a great first season for our Kaka team. We’ve seen their skills develop, confidence grow and a lot of enthusiasm. During the games everyone gave it their all and showed really team spirit. Go team Kaka! 

Coaches/Star Helpers: Amara Bruns & Holly
Manager: Ali Myatt

Coaches/Managers

A big thank you goes out to all the 35 coaches/star helpers and managers this season. We would not be able to run netball without you and we are grateful to all of you for putting your hand up to support our students to play netball again this season. I would like to acknowledge the five MAGS students who coached our teams this year. They are all ex-Balmoral students who were all happy to give back to the school by coaching teams and being role models to our players. Thank you to all the parents on the sideline supporting our teams as well. Your help with scoring, positive encouragement and cheers of support is very much appreciated.

Umpiring

We ran another successful Umpiring Workshop with 23 intermediate students attending. From this workshop they completed their online certificates and then we provided opportunities to practice umpiring at the Central Zone Boys trials, Central Zones Boys competition and Eden-Albert Netball Competition.

Netball 2026

Finally, we are looking forward to the 2026 season. I will be planning the dates this term so please look at the school website and school calendar later in the term. Netball organisation starts Term 1, Week 1. I will be running a pre-season information meeting again next year. This is where you can come along and learn how netball runs at the school. Dates for trials and uniform ordering cut-offs will be posted there. Teams will be allocated for Year 1-4 and ideally grouped with friends. There will be trials for Year 5-8. The purpose of trials is to place players with others of like ability so teams can be entered into the competition at the correct level. This is required by Auckland Netball as there are hundreds of teams in the competition and they all must be graded when I enter them. All players that sign up to netball will be placed in a team. If you are interested in helping out with netball next year, please get in touch.

Meredith Hughes
Balmoral Sports League Coordinator

Waterpolo

We had another successful waterpolo season this year entering 2 teams into the Atlantis City Waterpolo Competition. The season runs over Term 2 and 3 each year. We again shared pool space with Royal Oak Intermediate at the EGGS pool for practices each Sunday and competed each Friday night in the Diocesan School Pool. We were fortunate to have two ex-Balmoral students, who now attend MAGS, come back and coach our teams. Our teams were committed to practices and were always willing to fill in when one of the teams was short on players. Thanks to the coaches, managers and all the parents for their support from the bleachers!

Balmoral Barracudas
The Barracudas had a great waterpolo season competing in both the Atlantis league (finishing second in their division) as well as the Tim Sonderer competition. Everyone had a great time and improved a lot. Thanks to our fantastic coaches Eli Morrison and Tommy Humphries. 

Coaches: Eli Morrison & Tommy Humphries
Managers: Kari Adams & Gareth Kayes

Balmoral Pirhanas
The team had a great season, some really exciting games and they fought hard to the end. Thanks to the Barracudas for their support each week and thanks also to coaches Tommy and Eli. 

Coaches: Eli Morrison & Tommy Humphries
Manager: Pip Zame

Community News

Vote in the Local Elections Closing

Voting in the 2025 local elections is open until 12 noon, Saturday 11 October.

Today’s the day to complete your voting papers and drop them off in a ballot bin, located inside many supermarkets, service stations and libraries.

Vote and demonstrate to your children how to participate in a democratic society.