70 HBHS students competed across 6 disciplines - bringing home 4 top placings:

2nd place in Kapa Haka

3rd place in Pasifika

3rd place in Chess

3rd equal in Senior Oratory

The 2025 Super 8 Schools Cultural Festival was held in Rotorua at the iconic Sir Howard Morrison Centre, hosted by Rotorua Boys’ High School. The annual event brings together students from eight of New Zealand’s leading boys’ schools in the North Island to celebrate and compete in a wide range of cultural disciplines.

Hastings Boys’ High School was proud to take part once again, sending a contingent of 70 students accompanied by 10 staff members. Our students represented the school in Pasifika, Kapa Haka, Oratory, Chess, Debating, and Music. Each student involved carried with them the mana of our school and community, and it was heartening to see them perform and compete with pride, discipline, and integrity.

Music

The band Breadsticks, led by Roman Purotu-Lauvao, performed groove-driven originals.

Soloist Loma Utalia impressed with soul and vocal strength.

Chess

Dion Wilson had 6 wins, 1 draw - 1st equal on board one.

HBHS placed 3rd overall.

Debating

Both Junior and Senior teams debated "AI in education."

A great showing of teamwork and public speaking under pressure.

Oratory

Amanjot Singh (Senior) and Whaimotu Smith (Junior) delivered thoughtful, composed speeches.

Senior category: 3rd equal placing.

Pasifika

Over 40 students represented with dance, song, and culture.

3rd place and a powerful foundation for the future.

Kapa Haka

HBHS placed 2nd in a tight, emotional competition.

A proud moment of expression and unity.

Huge thank you to Rotorua Boys High School for hosting. Also to every student, staff member, and supporter.

Article added: Tuesday 27 May 2025