Motueka High School’s newly-appointed head students are finding their feet in their leadership roles as they begin to guide their peers through the challenges and triumphs of 2025.
Lochie Easton and Hannah Roborgh, both 17, say they are still establishing the boundaries of their roles, but their first initiatives are already underway. Now that the school’s new maths block is open, the head students are focussing on securing some of the relinquished space as a dedicated common room for their fellow Year 13 students, who currently do not have a dedicated place to study, socialise and relax.
They have also negotiated the inclusion of white socks to the school uniform, as an alternative to the existing black – a small matter, but one that used to cause unnecessary friction between the students and the teachers, the pair say. Another plan up for discussion is the reinstatement of the “gold box,” a place for students to anonymously submit suggestions and ideas on school-related matters. Looking ahead, Hannah also hopes the student body can work towards creating some “fresher art” around the school to replace some of the peeling murals.
The students are part of what Hannah describes as a “really driven” Year 13 cohort, with plenty of applicants for the school’s many leadership roles.
“It reflects an enthusiastic year group, which is always good,” says Lochie. Hannah says that Motueka High School’s cultural diversity is one of its greatest strengths, while Lochie praises its strong outdoor education programme.
Looking beyond high school, Lochie is weighing up two possible paths – studying politics and economics at Canterbury University, or applying for the airforce. Hannah has her sights set on the tourism industry, with ambitions to work on superyachts before studying outdoor education.
