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Alumni Manager

Lizzie Dyer The Quad

Lizzie Dyer
Alumni Manager

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It is hard to believe we are halfway through the year. The past few months have been incredibly busy and rewarding, with several special occasions here at College.

In May, we celebrated the presentation of Senior Honours Ties to two remarkable Old Boys, Alex Kendall and Damian McKenzie. Both men are leaders in their respective fields and wonderful examples of the impact that Christ's College Old Boys continue to make on New Zealand and around the world.

That evening, we hosted the formal Founders Day dinner in the Dining Hall for our Year 13 students. Guests enjoyed hearing from Old Boys Jamie Street and Scott Gregan, who shared their personal journeys, career experiences, and valuable insights with the next generation of College men.

We were also deeply honoured to welcome the newly elected Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Matthew Wale, back to College in June. It was a memorable visit, made even more special by the presence of two of Matthew's teammates from the 1987 1st XV, who joined us during the day. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate both the Prime Minister’s achievements and his enduring connection to Christ's College.

Looking ahead, we are delighted to welcome acclaimed actor and Old Boy Mark Hadlow back to the College community. In August, we will host a screening of his award-winning production MAMIL, followed in September by a live performance of GOMIL. Mark will also spend time with our students during his visit, which promises to be both entertaining and inspiring. These are fantastic events, and I encourage you to purchase your tickets for MAMIL and GOMIL and spread the word among family and friends.

At our recent Rugby Reunion, we unveiled four new Old Boy posters, continuing this popular initiative that celebrates the achievements and stories of members of our alumni community. It is always a highlight to recognise those who have made significant contributions in their chosen fields while maintaining a strong connection to College.

As always, there is plenty happening across our alumni network, with a range of events and activities planned throughout the year. I encourage you to visit our Upcoming Events page and, if you can, join us at an event near you.

Thank you for your continued support of the Christ's College Old Boys' Association. I look forward to seeing many of you over the coming months.

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Old Boys’ Stories

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Old Boys inspire at Founders Dinner

Old Boys Scott Gregan (2018–2022) and Jamie Street (2011–2015) have delivered entertaining and thought-provoking addresses at the Founders Dinner.

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Alex Kendall Damien Mc Kenzie

Ties that bind – Senior Honours for an AI innovator and All Black

Embodied AI pioneer Alex Kendall and dynamic All Black back Damian McKenzie – two of the youngest Old Boys to be celebrated by Christ’s College – have been awarded their Senior Honours Ties.

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Jack Hastie – making the grade for Duke

Gaining a scholarship in Year 9 to attend Christ’s College has opened the gates to an incredible academic pathway for Old Boy Jack Hastie (15761).

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MAMIL GOMIL

Curtain rises on Mark Hadlow ONZM – in conversation and on stage at Christ’s College

Old Boy actor Mark Hadlow ONZM (8490) returns to Christ’s College to show – and stage – two of his most well-known works, MAMIL and GOMIL. In this issue, he answers a few questions about their inspiration and enduring popularity.

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2026 01 solomon islands prime minister visit

Solomon Islands PM returns to College

During his first overseas trip as leader of the Solomon Islands, newly elected Prime Minister Matthew Wale CBE (10647) squeezed in a visit to his old school, Christ’s College.

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Profile Pic

Morgan Simes – Meta music man

From a seat at the GRAMMYS to building connections between the world’s largest online social network and the music industry, Meta Director of Music Publishing Partnerships and Strategy Morgan Simes (12261) holds a unique role.

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Sam Lu Westpac Gala 2025

Sam Lu – fuelling a desire to create a luxury brand

From mixing cheap vodka and Sprite to sell to his fellow Somes House students to developing a luxury goods brand that features the world’s first Western-made Baijiu distilled from fermented sorghum, Old Boy Sam Lu (12670) relishes challenges.

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In the News

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Josh Ratulomai (15645)

Former 1st XV prop Josh Ratulomai will pack down for Fiji at the U20 Rugby World Cup in Georgia.

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Gavin Holder (15645)

Former Christ’s College fullback Gavin Holder will line up for the United States at the U20 Rugby World Cup in Georgia.

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Michael Ardagh

Michael Ardagh (8851)

Old Boy and leadership specialist Paul McGregor has recently published a book titled 'The Question Effect'. Paul explains that it is about leading with curiosity to reduce stress and have a greater impact, particularly in high-pressure environments.

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Sam Darry

Sam Darry (14680)

Five Blues players have been named in the All Blacks squad for the upcoming Nations Championship, including Old Boy Sam Darry.

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Sam johnson

Sam Johnson (12962)

Sam Johnson has been appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours. He has been recognised for his outstanding service to the community and youth. As the founder of the Student Volunteer Army, he inspired thousands of young people to support Christchurch following the earthquakes.

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Upcoming Events

CHRIST'S COLLEGE & CCOBA EVENTS
Thursday 25 JuneCCOBA Melbourne Branch Dinner
Book now
Friday 31 JulyCCOBA Wellington Long Lunch (POSTPONED)
Thursday 6 AugustMAMIL (Middle Aged Man in Lycra), and Q&A with Mark Hadlow
Book now
Wednesday 12 AugustDunedin Young Old Boys (YOBs) Event
Register now
Friday 11 SeptemberGOMIL (Grumpy Old Man in Lycra), and Q&A with Mark Hadlow
Book now
Friday 2 OctoberCCOBA Golf Tournament
Book now
13–14 October65 & 75 Years On Reunion
Find out more
SAVE THE DATE
Tuesday 20 OctoberTimaru Community Event
Wednesday 21 OctoberAshburton Community Event
Wednesday 4 NovemberNelson Community Event
Thursday 5 NovemberBlenheim Community Event
Friday 20 NovemberChristchurch Long Lunch
12–14 February 2027CCOBA Annual Reunion Weekend – SAVE THE DATE
Find out more
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Out & About

Lest we forget

Students, staff, and the Christ’s College Chair and Fellows have united in the Chapel for a special Commemoration of the Fallen marking Anzac Day. Old Boy Private Dominic Edmond (14948), of the Southern Health Support Squadron, New Zealand Defence Force, has spoken about the call to serve in various forms while Old Boy and Board Chair Jeremy Johnson has delivered the Ode of Remembrance.

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Old Boys of all ages gather in Auckland

It was wonderful to have so many of Auckland-based Young Old Boys join us at Saint Alice, alongside our friends from St Margaret’s College. It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up, reconnect with old friends, and meet new faces in a relaxed setting. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event such a success.

The following evening, we welcomed alumni and friends to our Auckland Community Event at The Northern Club. Headmaster Joe Eccleton spoke about College life, recent developments, and the importance of maintaining strong connections within our school community. It was another memorable gathering and a wonderful reminder of the strength of the Christ’s College network.

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Connections still matter in building careers

Old Boys Angus Mossman (14724), Charlie Dyer (14562), and Louis Gunn (14959) have been back at school, opening up about their post-College journeys and sharing insights with the next generation of students at Career Convos sessions.

Angus, 25, a Christchurch-based lawyer, has put his case for a legal career. He has explained the many pathways in law – from commercial to courtroom – and the wider opportunities to use the skills gained from a LLB Degree in business and finance roles.

A member of Corfe House from 2014–2018, Angus is now a lawyer at Mortlock McCormack Law. At present, he works in commercial law. Angus also continues to play with a band, sparking his interest in entertainment law.

Meanwhile, Charlie has taken a very different route. From driving forklifts to becoming a Customer Manager for leading transport company Bascik, his career in supply chain management continues to evolve.

A member of Flower’s House, Charlie has reminded the boys to value their school connections throughout their lives. Whether undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Supply Chain Management at Lincoln University or heading straight into a career and working your way up the ranks, Charlie urges students to consider all options. He also points out that networking and making a positive impression on everyone you meet are core to success in his industry, adding that those College contacts and the foundation of learning have prepared him well.

Louis has shared his leadership in sport journey while also highlighting the importance of making connections.

Louis holds a Master of Sport and Recreation Management from Lincoln University, as well as a Bachelor of Sport Coaching with Majors in Sport Leadership and Management, and Strength and Conditioning with Nutrition from the University of Canterbury.

He has spoken about the power of building meaningful connections and the role relationships have played throughout his career. Louis has also shared insights into his research work in the sports industry, including his recently published paper on professional schoolboy rugby. He feels fortunate to have combined his passion with his profession, noting that no two days are the same.

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100 Years of Quad

It was a privilege to spend several days in Whanganui at the 100th Quadrangular Tournament, hosted by Wanganui Collegiate School.

For many Old Boys, Quad memories are not defined by the final result. Instead, they fondly recall who they played, the score, the weather on the day, and the friendships formed through one of New Zealand’s most enduring school sporting traditions. For generations of young men, Quad has represented the very best of schoolboy rugby, sportsmanship, camaraderie, and lifelong connection.

Wanganui Collegiate hosted the landmark event in magnificent style. The grounds were superb, providing a fitting backdrop for the celebrations.

A particular highlight was the Gala Dinner on Friday evening, which brought together past and present players, supporters, and friends to celebrate 100 years of Quad history and recall the many stories now woven in its legacy.

Congratulations to Wanganui Collegiate on a wonderful event and to all four schools for continuing a tradition that remains so integral to schoolboy rugby in New Zealand.

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Reuniting and ‘reforming’ – 1st XV stalwarts back in play for reunion

About 70 years after their last game for Christ’s College, nine members of the 1st XV packed down again for their Rugby Reunion.

Now aged in their late 80s, Murray Depree, Russell Henderson, Michael Horton, Daryl McGee, Alastair Reekie, Tony Roberton, Kingsley Warden, and Peter Williams all played together in the mid-1950s. They recently reunited to swap school stories and enjoy a wander around the campus before heading away to watch the annual clash against an old foe, Christchurch Boys’ igh School.  High School.

Meanwhile, two of the visiting Old Boys, John Baird and Michael Horton, are among the latest ‘poster boys’ at Christ’s College.

Both Michael and John saw their posters for the first time during their Rugby Reunion gathering in the Dining Hall while Old Boy Henry Richards joined the unveiling, with a poster of his late father, Toby, also on display. The posters mark the trio’s achievements in a range of areas, including business, governance, and sport. They will be added to the growing number placed around the school to remind the boys of the impressive feats of those who have gone before them at Christ’s College.

Nearly 60 Old Boys teamed up at the reunion to recall their greatest runs, best tackles, match-winning tries, and outstanding conversions as members of the Christ’s College 1st XV. Players from 2001, 1986, 1976, 1966, 1961, and 1956 all ‘reformed’ to celebrate their glory days.

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HEADING

Last week, we were delighted to welcome Old Boys from across the generations to Foxglove on Wellington’s waterfront for a wonderful evening of connection, conversation, and camaraderie.

It was fantastic to see such a diverse group in attendance, from those recently out of school to some of our most senior Old Boys. Events like these are a great reminder of the strength of the Christ’s College community and the lifelong bonds that connect us.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening such a success. We look forward to seeing many more of you at future events.

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The Chronicle

Deaths

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

Paul Joseph STUDHOLME (6686)
Canterbury, 21 May 2026

Jonathan Charles BELL (7655)
Christchurch, 17 May 2026

Harvey William TAYLOR (7234)
Canterbury, 15 May 2026

John Cornelis WESTSTRATE (5912)
Wellington, 5 May 2026

Peter Owen JOHNSTON (6639)
Queensland, 2 May 2026

Alister Raymond TURNBULL (6468)
Marlborough, 29 April 2026

Timothy Gerard KERNAHAN (7444)
Victoria, 13 April 2026

George (Rob) Robert Timaru RHODES (6677)
South Canterbury, 7 April 2026

James William MALING (7188)
Auckland, 4 April 2026

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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.

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From the Archives

Staff Anne Gabrielson SQ

Anne Gabrielsson
Archivist

Quadrangular Tournament – 100 on the board

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Matches between Christ’s College and Wellington College began in 1884, kicking off one of New Zealand’s oldest school sporting traditions. The Christ’s College 1890 Games Committee Minutes record plans to expand the fixture list, with discussions about playing Wellington College, Wanganui (now Whanganui) Collegiate School, and Nelson College during a northern tour. While Nelson College did not line up, the foundation for a larger tournament was laid.

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1910 vs Wanganui, CCPAL30 Richards Album

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1929 vs Wellington, CCPAL52 Blair Album 

In 1925, Nelson College officially joined the competition, creating the Quadrangular Tournament. Hosted by Wellington College, the teams faced wind and rain-affected games. Christ’s College struggled in the conditions, losing to Wanganui Collegiate School and Nelson College, while Wellington College emerged victorious through strong forward play.

Early players faced challenges beyond their opponents. Heavy knitted jerseys, leather boots, and waterlogged leather rugby balls ensured the games were physically gruelling. Before modern kicking tees, players improvised by using mounds of sand or even the heel marks of their boots to steady the ball when kicking for goal.

Despite these trials, the Quadrangular Tournament has endured as a symbol of tradition and resilience in interschool rugby rivalry. 

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Christ’s College 1st XV 1926 – 100 years ago

Over a century, supremacy has shifted. Nelson College has dominated in recent decades. It also celebrated particularly strong eras in the 1940s and 1960s. Wellington College enjoyed an excellent early 2000s to 2010s era. Meanwhile, Christ’s College and Whanganui Collegiate School remained well-matched, with the former last winning the tournament in 2018.

Overall records

Christ’s College – 83 wins, 101 defeats, 14 draws
Wellington College –110 wins, 72 defeats, 16 draws
Nelson College – 95 wins, 87 defeats, 16 draws
Whanganui Collegiate – 78 wins, 106 defeats, 14 draws

A new exhibition in the Christ’s College Museum celebrates the Quad Tournament, with the Quad 100 to be hosted by Whanganui Collegiate School from 17–20 June.

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