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From the President

Blue Henderson SQ

Tim Daley
CCOBA President

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My name is Tim Daley, and I am proud to serve as the new Christ’s College Old Boys’ Association President.

I have taken over the role from Blue Henderson, who has led the association through the 175th celebrations and leaves us in excellent shape. Engagement is strong, and we are well placed to build on the foundations laid by Blue. Thank you, Blue, for your significant contribution.

I attended College from 2004 to 2008, starting as a dayboy in Condell’s House before, eventually, seeing the light and moving into Flower’s House. I chose an interesting year to become a boarder, living under the hall while Flower’s House was rebuilt.  There were no windows, and it was a bit like living in a dungeon, but we enjoyed ourselves nonetheless.    

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at College, playing rugby, cricket, and squash, and dabbling in theatre and debating, while finding some time for study – all with mixed success.

After College, I studied law at the University of Canterbury. I was in my third year and in my flat when the February 2011 earthquake hit.  At the time, I was sharing the flat with a fellow Old Boy who was studying viticulture at Lincoln University. He happened to be brewing 100 litres of pear cider in our bathroom and when the earthquake struck, a wave of fermenting fruit flooded the flat. It probably still smells to this day.

I began my legal career in Wellington at a specialist litigation firm, where one of the partners was also a Flower’s House Old Boy. After two years, I moved to Melbourne for three years, and then on to London. Following 18 months there, Covid-19 intervened, and my wife and I returned to Auckland, before eventually settling in Christchurch in 2020.

At present, I am a Special Counsel at Fee Langstone, where I lead the Christchurch office.

Over the years, I have lived in five cities across three countries. In each one, I have found fellow Old Boys to share a beer with and catch-up.

That, for me, is the enduring value of College – the friendships formed at school continue long after. No matter where you are in the world, there is a network of Old Boys you can reach out to. Supporting and strengthening that network is a core purpose of this association.

Thanks to the efforts of Blue – and those who came before him – we are in a strong position to continue building those connections and ensuring that Old Boys remain engaged with each other and with College.

I also want to mention that the new CCOBA constitution was approved at our last AGM.

I look forward to meeting many of you at various College upcoming events. Please do come and say hello. Just a reminder, we will be in Auckland in May for the YOBs event and our Community Visit. We then head to Wellington on 16 June.

Old Boy Mark Hadlow steps into the spotlight

We look forward to welcoming Old Boy actor-director Mark Hadlow back to College to share his award-winning shows, including a film of his play, MAMIL (Middle-Aged Man in Lycra), and a live performance of GOMIL (Grumpy Old Man in Lycra). Both events will be held at Christ’s College and include Q&A sessions.

100th Quadrangular Tournament

Just a reminder that Whanganui Collegiate School will host the 100th Quadrangular Tournament from 17–20 June, including a Black Tie Gala Dinner. We invite Old Boys to come along and support Christ’s College as the 1st XV vies for the tournament title against the host school, Nelson College, and Wellington College. To find out more about the matches and book for the gala dinner, please click here.

Read on

Old Boys’ Stories

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Uniting across the years

Christchurch truly turned on the weather for our annual Reunion Weekend (13–15 February), as we welcomed back more than 250 Old Boys to College. We were delighted to have David Mayne (Taupō) and Gerald Lascelles join us for their 80 Years On Reunion.

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Cricket photo

Old foe falls to CC Old Boys at The Valley of Peace

On Sunday 1 February 2026, a bunch of Christ’s College (CC) Old Boys arrived at The Valley of Peace Cricket Club ground to face one of its old foes, St Andrew’s College (StAC) Old Collegians. While several were buoyed by nostalgia, all were full of optimism.

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Jon parson book

Jon Parson – crafting a multi-role career

Old Boy author and former Canterbury cricketer Jon Parson (6555) returned to Christ’s College for his 70 Years On Reunion in February.

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Michael Martin

Michael Martin – betting on the Housemaster being wrong to breed Sunline

Having been warned by his Housemaster not to waste his time on racehorses, Old Boy – and the co-breeder with wife Susan Archer of the legendary double Cox Plate winner Sunline – Michael Martin (7863) wryly smiles when recalling his school days.

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Will parsons

Will Parsons – early eco-tour champion

Wanting to share special spaces in New Zealand with eco-friendly explorers, Old Boy Will Parsons (7882) sets the green standard in tourism tours.

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In the News

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Rico Lemalie (15782)

Old Boy – and former College 1st XV player – Rico Lemalie was named the New Zealand Rugby League Junior Player of the Year. His impressive 2025 season included selection in the New Zealand Warriors’ SG Ball Cup (under-19) side. He was also co-captain of the Canterbury Bulls 18s, helping to steer the provincial team to victory at the National Youth Tournament. It was Canterbury’s first 18s title since 1998. He is now the Warriors SG Ball Cup team vice-captain.

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Alex kendall wayve

Alex Kendall (13573)

Old Boy Alex Kendall is driving a 'Wayve' of change and innovation, with his London-based start-up securing US$1.5 billion ($2.5b) in new funding for its autonomous-driving and 'robotaxi' technology. His Wayve technology will power Uber's first robotaxis fleet, expected to soon hit London streets. His company’s autonomous-driving AI would work with any make or model of new car.

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Paul Mc Gregor

Paul McGregor (12987)

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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Jock phillips

Jock Phillips (7087)

Speaking on 'Nine to Noon', Old Boy and renowned historian Jock Phillips discusses the repercussions of the largest known earthquake in New Zealand – a magnitude 8.2 quake in Wellington and Wairarapa that would change the shape of the capital city forever.

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Upcoming Events

CHRIST'S COLLEGE & CCOBA EVENTS
Wednesday 27 MayAuckland Young Old Boys (YOBs) Event
Register now
Thursday 28 MayAuckland Community Visit
Register now
Tuesday 2 JuneChrist's College 1st XV vs Christchurch Boys' High School 1st XV rugby game
Tuesday 2 JuneCCOBA Rugby Reunion
Register now
Tuesday 16 JuneWellington Community Visit & Young Old Boys (YOBs) event
Register now
17–20 June100 Years of Quadrangular Tournaments
Find out more
Thursday 25 JuneCCOBA Melbourne Branch Dinner
Book now
Friday 31 JulyWellington Long Lunch
Book now
Thursday 6 AugustMAMIL (Middle Aged Man in Lycra), and Q&A with Mark Hadlow
Book now
Friday 11 SeptemberGOMIL (Grumpy Old Man in Lycra), and Q&A with Mark Hadlow
Book now
Friday 2 OctoberCCOBA Golf Tournament – SAVE THE DATE
13–14 October65 & 75 Years On Reunion
Find out more
12–14 February 2027CCOBA Annual Reunion Weekend – SAVE THE DATE
Find out more
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Out & About

Driving a special day out for the annual rally

Idling around the Christ’s College Quad, an incredible – and long – line-up of cars geared up for the annual Joe Studholme Memorial Car Rally. Heading off at 10am on Sunday 15 February to view the incredible collection of car enthusiast Rob McCormack, the drivers were looking forward to an excellent experience. Rob’s son, Simon, kindly showed the Old Boys around the collection, which included everything from a tiny Messerschmitt to a long-wheelbase Rolls-Royce. Rob loves colour, so the entire spectrum was on show – from a yellow Porsche to a purple Lamborghini to a gold Alfa Romeo. The rally then pressed on to Lindfield, the home of John Savill, where we saw his beautiful garden and stunning homestead. John shared a brief history of the property while the visitors enjoyed picnics in the afternoon sun. It was great to have some younger Old Boys join the group this year.

Photos: John McDonald

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Motoring along – 50 Years On 

On Sunday 15 February, our 50 Years On Old Boys enjoyed a visit to Hadstock Farm in Leeston to view a wonderful collection of cars, followed by a tasty lunch at The Lab in Lincoln – a fitting way to round off a memorable weekend. Old Boys Dick Todd and Graham Hunt geared up for the day in Dick’s beautiful SS Jaguar 100.

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Setting sail for Furneaux Lodge

In perfect conditions, the CCOBA Yacht & Launch Luncheon at Furneaux Lodge in the Marlborough Sounds attracted a strong turnout, with Old Boys eager to reconnect in such an iconic setting. It was a wonderful reminder of the strength of the school network and the importance of staying in touch. Thank you to Nigel Taylor and Zac Ensor for their work behind the scenes to make the day such a success.

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Setting the scene for connection at Millbrook

On a lovely evening in mid-March, members of our wonderful College community gathered at Millbrook for our annual visit. It was an enjoyable occasion, with many making the most of the opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and strengthen the ties that make our College network so special. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped to ensure a memorable evening.

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Cricket catch-up

Christ’s College Old Boys who wore the 1st XI cap between 1953 and 1963 gathered to watch the first day of the two-day 1st XI CC v CBHS cricket match at the school grounds in Hagley Park in March. It was a special day on the boundary as the former 1st XI ‘boys’ returned to Christchurch, travelling from across New Zealand to watch the game. While time might have passed, the laughter, stories, and passion for cricket remained as strong as ever.

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Traditional hockey tussle draws top Old Boys team

Our traditional season opener – the College 1st XI vs Old Boys fixture – ended in a draw after a closely contested but enjoyable game. Held on Sunday 29 March at Nunweek Park, the game featured a strong 1st XI performance before the Old Boys hit back late to seal a 3–3 draw and share the Nick Speight Memorial Shield. (The shield honours the memory of a 1st XI captain, Nick Speight, who was killed in Iraq in 1999). Well done to the goal scorers, Old Boys Finn McCormack-Young (two) and Josh Durant and 1st XI players James Melhuish, Ollie Gordon, and JJ Wada. 

The Old Boys team: Zac Adams, Liam Alexander, Finnian Chan-Allan, Tom Clarke, Josh Durant, Josh Erasmus, Fynn Harrington, Henry Hiatt, Ollie King, Finn McCormack-Young, Finn Melhuish, and Tom Mouldey. Thank you to the College hockey sponsors, Pacific Radiology, Balance Physiotherapy, Sporting Edge, A1 Property, and Nexia NZ.

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Serving up a great night of tennis

On a lovely autumn evening at the Waimairi Tennis Club, College Old Boys lit up the courts as they battled for Janet Storry Shield honours. While they did not take home the shield, it was a very entertaining night. Thank you to our wonderful players for their effort and spirit.

The Janet Storry Shield has been contested between Christ’s College, St Andrew’s College, St Margaret’s College, and Rangi Ruru Girls’ School for 96 years. We look forward to celebrating the 100th anniversary in 2030.

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Lifelong friendships, decades on

It was a very special catch-up recently for three former School House boarders who entered College in 1955.

Prue and Tony Ludbrook (APR) travelled from Cambridge to join Percy and Lynda Acton-Adams (PA), along with Julian and Rosie Holderness, for lunch at Ōhope Beach. What began as a simple get-together has now become a much-anticipated annual tradition.

A wonderful example of the lifelong friendships formed at College.

Ohope beach catch up
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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

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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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