Q2 A5856

From the President

Blue Henderson SQ

Andrew (Blue) Henderson
CCOBA President

2025 05 Old Boys Lunch

 

As my term as CCOBA President draws to a close, it is timely to reflect on the highlights and memorable moments that I have experienced in this role.

175 Years Celebratory Weekend

Undoubtedly, the most significant event was the 175th celebration held during the Reunion Weekend in February 2025. This milestone was a remarkable occasion, bringing together alumni from far and wide and serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of our community.

Connecting with alumni

One of the great joys of my presidency has been meeting many Old Boys at events across the country. I have been continually impressed by the strength and depth of our alumni networks – not only in New Zealand, but around the world. Our alumni are unique, and their commitment to maintaining that College connection is what makes our association so special.

Welcoming new members

A particularly meaningful tradition has been welcoming the ‘new’ Old Boys into the association during their College Leavers’ Service in the Chapel. The service is always an emotional time for both the leavers and their parents, and I cherish the opportunity to reconnect with alumni at Young Old Boys (YOBs) events throughout the country.

Strong leadership and governance

The relationship between our Headmaster, Joe Eccleton, and Board Chair Jeremy Johnson remains exceptionally strong. It has been a privilege and honour to be involved in College’s journey alongside such dedicated leaders.

Committee appreciation

I am deeply grateful to the CCOBA committee members who generously contribute their time and expertise to ensure the continued success of our association.

Looking ahead

At the upcoming AGM in February, which coincides with the Reunion Weekend, I will pass the baton to my successor. I encourage those 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and 80 Years On year groups to register for the Reunion Weekend – held from 13–15 February – as it is a magical opportunity to reconnect and celebrate with your peers. Register here.

Special thanks

Finally, my heartfelt thanks go to our outstanding Alumni Manager, Lizzie Dyer, who consistently ensures the smooth running of our association.

Constitution

Please note the following: 
Notice pursuant to Rules 24 and 26 of the CCOBA Constitution:

In order to ensure continued compliance with relevant legislation, members are advised that amendments to the current constitution are being proposed.

The proposed amendments to the constitution will be considered by the members present at the annual general meeting to be held at 4.30pm on Friday 13 February in the College Library.

A draft of the proposed amended constitution will be made available in advance of the annual general meeting.

Please click here to find the AGM agenda. The 2025 minutes will be available prior to the AGM meeting. 

Read on

Old Boys’ Stories

2025 12 Reunion 65 75

Judge Bill Unwin – a fair hearing for all

A former District Court Judge, New Zealand Parole Board Convenor, Liquor Licensing Authority Chairman, and CCOBA President, Bill Unwin QSO (5899) sets the benchmark in public service and legal leadership.

Read full article
2025 04 Reunion 65 75 2026 01 21 204540 sbnr

Dr Jock Phillips ONZM – history matters

Distinguished historian, award-winning author, and Old Boy Dr Jock Phillips ONZM (7087) has opened the pages to New Zealand’s storied past.

Read full article
IMG 1909 2026 01 21 204756 jbhm

Richard Blundell – learning, earning, and returning

For Old Boy Richard Blundell (6996), charity begins at home.

Read full article

Upcoming Events

CHRIST'S COLLEGE & CCOBA EVENTS
13–15 FebruaryReunion Weekend
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 80 Years On Reunion (1946–1950)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 70 Years On Reunion (1956–1960)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 60 Years On Reunion (1966–1970)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 50 Years On Reunion (1976–1980)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 40 Years On Reunion (1986–1990)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 30 Years On Reunion (1996–2000)
Register now
13–15 FebruaryCCOBA 20 Years On Reunion (2006–2010)
Register now
Sunday 15 February Vintage and Sports Car Rally
Register now
Saturday 28 FebruaryAnnual Yachts and Launches – Picton
Register now
Thursday 12 MarchSouthern Lakes Community Visit
Register now
13–14 March  Come and see us at the Wanaka A&P Show (C7 & 9)
Find out more 
Tuesday 31 March Janet Storry Interschool Tennis 2026
Register here
Tuesday 2 JuneSave the Date – Rugby Reunion 
Read on

Out & About

Strowan Rose Bowl

Congratulations to our CCOBA Golf Team
A huge well done to Keith Shipston, Chris Le Cren, Bryan Andrews, and Ben Frampton on an outstanding performance, winning the Strowan Rose Bowl for the fifth consecutive year. With superb Stableford scores of 36, 35, and 35, the team posted an impressive total of 106 — finishing seven points ahead of runner-up St Bede’s College on 99. A remarkable achievement and a fantastic result for CCOBA.

Save the date: CCOBA Golf 2026 – Friday, 2 October

IMG 3622

Christchurch YOBs 

We enjoyed a lovely evening with a fantastic group of Young Old Boys at our annual Christchurch YOBs event at The Bog. With lively Irish music, great company, and plenty of laughter, it was a wonderful night. it is a great reminder of just how enjoyable these gatherings are for everyone.

IMG 2771
IMG 2768
IMG 2765
IMG 2758
IMG 2757
IMG 2754

Christchurch Long Lunch

We enjoyed a wonderful and highly entertaining Christchurch Long Lunch, made all the more memorable by our guest speaker, the very funny and engaging Mark Hadlow. Guests were treated to plenty of laughter and behind-the-scenes stories, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of the occasion.

IMG 2694
IMG 2678
IMG 2671
IMG 2660
IMG 2646
IMG 2639
IMG 2722
IMG 2664

Auckland Long Lunch 

We wrapped up the year in style with our final event, the Auckland Long Lunch, held at the Corner Bar. It was a relaxed and convivial afternoon, enjoyed by all who attended, and a fitting way to bring another successful year of CCOBA events to a close.

1000001385
1000001380
1000001381
1000001384
1000001379
1000001378
Read on

The Chronicle

Obituaries

Peter Thomas Harman (5940)

Peter Harman was born in Christchurch on 17 January 1938 to Annesley Harman (2416) and Gladys Winifred. He attended Medbury School and went on to Christ’s College (1951–1955). As a keen sportsman, he played rugby, cricket, tennis, and squash and was member of the 1st XV.

After school, Peter studied at Canterbury College, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws in 1961. After gaining practical experience and being admitted to the bar, he joined the family firm, then known as T.D. Harman & Son.

After marrying Fiona Moir in 1963, he settled in Avonhead and started a family. He had four children, Prue, James (9448), Claire, and Sam (10136)

From 1973 to 1976 he moved with his family to Hong Kong, where he took up a position with the Hong Kong Government in the Official Receiver’s Office. The time there was particularly precious to Peter and his family. He and Fi learned to sail, eventually purchasing a Nordic Folkboat and exploring the many islands near Hong Kong in the South China Sea. He was a keen member of the Aberdeen Boat Club and took part in Saturday races on Hong Kong Harbour. He was also a member of the Hash House Harriers who organised weekly orienteering races around the island.

After moving back to Christchurch in 1976, he continued with the family firm as a partner. Professionally, he was one of the old school, driven by justice, fairness, and integrity, with a strong moral compass. He looked after family legal matters for a wide range of clients, many for the duration of their lives.

He was altruistic in nature and volunteered for the Lifeline Trouble Team, was on the Board of Bishop Julius Hall of Residence, and did legal work for the Canterbury Charity Hospital Trust.

He, along with Fi and a group of friends, gave two Vietnamese refugee families the chance of a new life in New Zealand, helping them through the confusion of paperwork and other difficulties they encountered when they arrived.

Much of his free time was spent in the garden and pursuing sports, in particular tennis, squash, and skiing. He was also a boys’ cricket coach for the Old Collegians Cricket Club.

He joined Papprill Hadfield & Aldous as a partner in the early 1990s, remaining until his retirement in 2008.

In retirement he was active, continuing to play tennis and enjoying regular outings with his walking group.

Peter passed away suddenly on 11 October 2021 in Little Akaloa, surrounded by family. He is survived by Fiona and his children.

Read full obituaries here

Read on

Deaths

We have learnt of the following deaths in our community. Our sympathy is extended to their family and friends.

Charles Mackinlay USHER 
Christchurch, 11 January 2026

Maurice Anthony LOUISSON (5219)
Auckland, 29 December 2025

Peter Elliott Warren RUSSELL (5526)
Auckland, 27 December 2025

William David HUNT (6410)
Otago, 21 December 2025

Oliver Roderick MATSON (8512)
Canterbury, 28 November 2025

Michael Frederick HOBBS (5588)
Wellington, 25 November 2025

Angus John GORDON (7558)
Hawkes Bay, 25 November 2025

John Edward CARPENTER (6263)
Bay of Plenty, 20 November 2025

Robin James MILLER (7073)
Christchurch, 16 November 2025

Stuart James MACFARLANE (5221)
Auckland, 8 November 2025

Read on

Contributions welcome

If you would like to contribute an obituary to The Chronicle, please email Lizzie Dyer at ccoba@ccoba.com.

As a guideline, we suggest a 500-word submission. However, we are happy to accept longer or shorter options.

*Please note that this office may edit obituaries.

Read on