Explore the Alumni Database
SHEELAH LAMB
1963-67 (Student) 1970-2000 (Staff) 2001 – 2018 (Part-time, Relief, Alumni Administrator) I’m signing off from Matamata College for the very last time. My association with this place has been lengthy and I can’t image not walking up those front steps again. As a...
GINNI POST (Ryan)
Ginni was destined for success! She gained all her school qualifications (first year of NCEA) and went on to Waikato University and completed a Bachelor of Communications Studies, majoring in Marketing and Public Relations. She was also very active and took...
DAVID PALMER
I moved from Gisborne to Matamata in 1951. My Dad had been appointed Head Master at Matamata Primary School. Ewan Merry was my teacher in Forms 1 and 2. I have happy memories of the teachers at the College including Doug Olsen, Ian McLeod, Vic Lewis, ‘Doc’ Bibby,...
MAURICE SMITH, ANNE SMITH (DAWSON)
Maurice and Anne have much to thank Matamata College for. They both attended at the same time and in 1965 became “Mr and Mrs Smith.” Recently (2015), they celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in Queenstown with their family. Maurice was a School Prefect in 1962...
Sir Dryden Spring
I grew up in Walton and went to Walton School. I attended Matamata College from 1952 to 1954. Peter Loveridge, Roger Loveridge and Graham Kneebone were all Head Boy in those years. My academic career was pretty undistinguished (I was more interested in sport) and...
Kaye Spence
Kaye was an exceptionally academic student who thrived on achievement at the highest level. Hence she gained an A Bursary and was Dux in 1980. At school Kaye says she did nothing of note (but lots of study). She took part in the school musicals and played hockey at...
Elizabeth (Liz) Coutts (Wilson
While I spend a large proportion of time in boardrooms, I am equally at home in gumboots on a farm. I grew up on a dairy farm in Matamata which taught me to pull my weight and work hard, alongside five siblings. I am the second youngest in my family. I wasn’t aware...
Brent Gibson
Brent was an inspirational student, sportsman and character. He attended College from 1979 to 1983. Brent was the first college student to require a wheelchair and with hard work from his family all the classroom blocks were altered to ensure wheelchair access. ...
SCOTT DONALDSON
I hope to impart a few retrospective positives and learnings from my college journey. The best learnings however usually emerge from losses, mistakes and overcoming hurdles! I will start with the lessons… Academics I was a solid, slightly above average student...
Keith Livingstone
Keith was an outstanding athlete. He was a pocket-rocket and lived for running. In the days before metric Keith held all the distance running events and cross country events. Not only did he hold the College records he also held Thames Valley records and was always...
Michael Bardsley
Michael Ronald Bardsley What years were you at school? 1957 to 1960 Qualifications gained at school: School C in English, Metalwork/woodwork, Tech Drawing and Social Studies. Involvement in sports/cultural activities at school: Rugby, Baseball. Qualifications post...
Malcolm Laird
Malcolm Laird, a co-dux of Matamata College in 1953, was brought up in Ngarua by dairyfarming parents. After leaving school, he attended Auckland University, studying mathematics and science. In the final year of his B.S.C. degree, he took a paper in geology, a...
Anthony Hawes
Anthony came from a family who were competitive waterskiers. Although water skiing was not a school sport, his family and others attended Year 9 (Form 3) Camp every year to teach kids how to ski. It was always one of the highlights of camp. Anthony started skiing at...
Aaron Simmonds
It’s come as no surprise that Aaron has wound up in a job where talking is the number one requisite. After gaining NCEA Level 1 and 2 at school, Aaron headed for the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic and gained his National Certificate in Radio and followed that up with a...
Ailsa Holloway
Since she completed college in Matamata, Ailsa has had the privilege of a rich and varied experience in the fields of health, humanitarian assistance and higher education. In New Zealand, her health-related work involved working in Thames and Palmerston North...
Alex Goscomb
Alex was a high achiever and left school with Level 3 NCEA. He had a passion for soccer and captained the 1st XI. He also helped out with and took part in school productions and stage challenges. On leaving Alex studied Chemical and Process Engineering and has...
Alexander James Sutherland
Born in Matamata and attended Matamata College. Finest moment was playing and beating Te Awamutu College in the curtain raiser to the 1956 Waikato (who won) Springboks (who lost) match. Was Dux of the College in that year. Although I grew up on a dairy farm it was...
Alison Hazlehurst
Alison had many ‘strings to her bow’. She was an extremely talented sportswoman with a physical presence envied by many budding sportspeople. She was a school champion swimmer – 1983 Junior Girls. She was a member of the tennis team – runner up Junior Girls...
Alison Wieringa (Wills)
Alison was a great all-rounder. She arrived at Matamata College from Walton and soon made a mark in the classroom and on the sports field. Sport was a high priority in the “Wills” family with all kids (and parents) reaching the “top” in whatever they participated...
Allan Hopson
Allan was a great all-rounder. He was a high achiever in the classroom and a whizz in the sporting arena. Hopsons’ all had a flair for games – twin sisters Diane and Karen were in the era of Matamata College Netball dominating in the Waikato and the North Island...
Alyson Pevreal
I left school at the end of the 6th form with my University Entrance. Can barely remember anything significant from my school days – probably because I was fairly insignificant! I remember doing fairly well with my School Certificate Exams, played netball in a less...
Andrea Hopson
Not only was Andrea an academic gaining an A Bursary and Scholarship in Geography, she was a very accomplished sportswoman and an artist. At school Andrea was involved in many sporting and cultural activities including: House Leader 2003 Secretary of Senior Executive...
Andrew Grinder
Andrew left school after his 5th form year and completed his education with a corporate-sponsored tertiary program under David Levene’s management, culminating in a diploma of Business Management. At school Andrew played basketball and was the team captain of the...
Andrew Parsonage and Saskia Van Waaijenburg
The story of a school day romance. These two have been together since early on in their school days and both have accomplished so very much. Andrew was one of the “clever” Parsonage clan. Brothers, Mark, Matthew, Scott and sister Kylie have all left their mark on...
Angela Munro
It is not surprising that Angela has reached dizzy heights in her career. As a school students Angela was always extremely active. She was involved in most sports and reached the highest level in Netball. She gained a B Bursary in her final year and also...
Angela Thomson, JP, PhD
Writer, Researcher, Historian Current: Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law Freelance Writer Education: University of Auckland Matamata College I asked Angela of her memories of Matamata...
Barry Roberts
Barry is one of this schools most successful athletes. He went on to coach a number of New Zealand athletes who competed at Olympic and Commonwealth games. Barry completed five years education gaining School Certificate and University Entrance. Maths and Science...
Beau Wills
Like the other members of his family Beau was destined to be a scholar and a sportsman. He won the school tennis championships, often in tough duels with Travis Scott who was also a talented player. Beau played tennis for Waikato age group teams and during his last...
Isapela Fox-Tuimaseve (Belle)
What a sporting talent and all-round great citizen of the college. Izy (as I knew her – now Belle) was involved in many aspects of school life and was a popular and out-going student. She worked studiously in the classroom gaining School Certificate and going...
Bob Diprose
Bob started at Matamata Intermediate when it was on the college campus and continued his Secondary education here for five years. He passed School Cert in 1956, University Entrance in 1957 and Higher School Certificate in 1958. Bob won a scholarship to Lincoln...
Brian Cotter
WAITING FOR THE NEXT “CRASH ON WALL STREET”! (Written by Brian) Most people have been told about the Crash on Wall Street….Well I caused it! The day I was born people started jumping out of windows. I was born on “Black Tuesday” 21st October 1929, to a couple of...
Bruce Dale (Deceased 2016)
Bruce and his twin brother (Colin) attended Matamata College from 1965-1969. He completed 6A and gained Higher School Certificate, having earlier been accredited UE and gained top marks in School Certificate. From school Bruce went to Waikato University where...
Colin Riseborough
Colin completed his final two year’s schooling at Matamata College. As his Dad was the postmaster, they moved around every few years. Colin made an instant impression at Matamata College. In his final year he was a School Prefect, won the Senior Athletics...
Colin Dale
Colin attended College from 1965 to 1969 and taught at the College in 1976. Post school Colin attended Waikato University graduating in education and geography. Later he attended Unitec to study educational leadership for four years part-time. After leaving the...
Colleen Toomey
Colleen is yet another successful ex-student of Matamata College. She completed four years schooling before leaving for America as an (AFS) American Field Scholar. Colleen spent a year in Wisconsin and keeps in regular contact with her AFS family. On her return, she...
Darrin Taylor
Darrin has a very interesting, varied and stimulating work history. He left school in 1990 after the 7h Form and joined the 1st Battalion Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (1 RNZIR) where he completed his training at Linton Camp, Palmerston North and completed...
David Priest
David was an outstanding all-round student. He was academically exceptional and a terrific sportsman. He gained School Certificate, University Entrance and an A Bursary before heading to Waikato University to study. At the completion of one year at Waikato, David...
Catherine Anne Maclean
Catherine Anne Maclean was born to Scottish immigrants, Neil and Helen Maclean, and grew up in Waharoa, near Matamata, in the Waikato region.[1] Neil was a factory worker at the local Waharoa diary factory.[2] She attended Matamata High School, and she gained a...
Bruce Foggo
Headboy: 1965 On leaving school with University Entrance Bruce studied medicine and graduated with a MB ChB Dip Obst (Univ of Auckland) M Pal Care (Flinders Univ Sth Australia). He has worked in General Practice and Palliative Medicine. Bruce is currently working at...
Caroline Steer
Caroline completed five years at Matamata College in 1987. As well as achieving at the highest level academically, Caroline was a member of the College Orchestra playing the flute. Owen Workman was the music teacher at that time. She was also a member of the 1st XI...
Casey Kopua (Williams)
This young lady has put Matamata on the map! Captain of the New Zealand Silver Ferns and rated as the best defence in the world! Casey carries a lot of responsibility. From a netball family – Mum, Aunties, Sisters – all of whom attended Matamata College, this young...
Catherine Vosper (Cat)
Dynamic, purposeful, energetic, vibrant and quite silly – there are not many adjectives that don’t fit this young lady! Cat – (Cathy at school). During her five years here Cat was involved (in her own words) “in anything going”: choir, music lessons (one of my...
Christopher Dawson (Chris)
Chris is a highly qualified Environmental Planning Consultant. At school he was a member of the International Committee and was Head Boy for the last term of 1984. He was also Proxime Accessit and gained an A Bursary in 1984. On leaving school Chris worked in the...
Harold Mihinui
Harold says he doesn’t remember too much from his school days. He remembers Arthur Lucas as the Principal and Arnold Phillips as his Form Teacher. He travelled from Okoroire on the bus driven by Vic Lewis and strangely enough Harold and his wife Jillian purchased...
Fritz Scheidegger
Fritz came from a soccer playing country but during his school years he had little interest in that sport. He played a bit of hockey and bought all the gear to play tennis but never got an opportunity to get on the court. He loved the Military training. Fritz...
George Miller
George has had a diverse and full life and is now enjoying retirement. He gained School Certificate and from school he completed an apprenticeship in Radio/TV Electronics. He then did a stint in Melbourne where he worked at AWA TV then returned to New Zealand where...
Gordon Hughes
Gordon made a significant contribution to school life during his five years. He was deputy head boy in 1957, gained School Certificate, University Entrance and was the winner of the Bell Memorial Scholarship. On the sports field he was also very successful – Rugby...
Grant Wills
Grant was in the School Certificate days where he gained six SC’s, UE accredited and a B Bursary. From school Grant attended Massey University and graduated with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science in 1981. From University Grant worked for MAF as an Engineering Advisor...
Gavin Muckle
I attended Matamata College from 1960 until 1964. I was in the Intermediate area of the school for two years prior to that. I was a prefect in my final year. I represented the school in Athletics and in Rugby and took part in a number of dramatic and musical...
Geoff Adams
Geoff attended Matamata College and describes himself as John’s (profiled) younger but more gracious and modest brother!! (I’m not so sure!) Brother John describes Geoff as “export quality” – probably because he hasn’t spent much of his working life in New Zealand....
Gary Shane Francis O’Brien
Born and grew up in New Zealand, attended Matamata College, living in the USA. Where I hang my hat is my home and I like to change hats. I draw whatever makes me feel good, so there are no wrong answers. The influences for what I draw are things going on around me,...
Ewen Laurenson
Ewen commented that his academic and sporting achievements at College were not particularly memorable. However he went on to graduate with a BA and a Dip Ed. He married Gillian and they have four children and five grandchildren. With Gillian he started the Open Home...
Eleanor Hawe
Elearnor has had a very successful and interesting career. Her initial schooling was at Waharoa Primary School then Matamata Intermediate before attending Matamata College for four years. At school Eleanor gained School Certificate and University Entrance, and then...
Jade McMonagle
Jade started at Matamata College part way through Form 5. Jade and her sister Kaysha were a great asset to the school. Academically and in the sporting field. They were members of the exceptional 1st XI hockey team of 1991. The team, coached by Judy Board, herself...
James Eldridge
James believes in “hard work’” and that nothing is ever just handed to you on a plate! One of six kids born in Aussie and educated here, James learnt at a young age that to be successful it just doesn’t happen – loads of hard work, effort, earning an income , taking...
James Davidson, FLTLT
Here is a young man who was destined to succeed and he has in just a few short years. I’m sure a 30 hour day for most people would be required to fit in what James accomplished at school and what he has achieved in the seven years since leaving. James was an...
James Jobe
James doesn’t think he has done much in the short time since he left school. Many (most) would say he has done and achieved ‘heaps’! While at school he demonstrated a wide range of skills – academic, sporting and acting. He was a young man with a vast array of...
James Sainsbury
James – a high achiever in all facets of school life and post school in his career. His F7 year had some exceptional academics -Craig Parker (Dux) and Glenn McCabe (Proxime Accessit) with James right up there. He completed his Form 7 year winning the Hugh...
Jamie Troughton
Jamie was number four of six in one branch of the vast Troughton forest, having made it through Waharoa Primary and Matamata Intermediate. Oldest sister Sue is an award-winning journalist, while youngest sister Kate – now a nurse – was head girl at Matamata College. ...
Jan Bailey
Jan was destined to have an interesting and exciting career. She came to Matamata College in Form 5 and was a top student for all three years. Jan gained six School Certificate subject, had UE accredited and achieved an A Bursary. In her final year Jan was Proxime...
Jane Baker (McGlashan)
Jane was the youngest of a very talented sporting family. During her five years she was very involved with netball and tennis, was the Kiwi House Sports Captain and was a School Prefect. Gymnastics was also a sport close to her heart and this became a passion later...
Jason Spice
Jason Spice belongs to an exclusive group of New Zealand rugby players who have pulled on an All Black jersey but never made it onto the field of play. This he did against Argentina in Buenos Aires in 2001, called into the touring side because of injury but not needed...
Jason Van Hout
Jason trained as a Technical Architect ………….. where. He has now had 11 years’ experience working within both the commercial and residential sectors. Having completed a National Diploma in Architectural Technology as well as being a qualified Architectural Detailer,...
Jenny Hickson
Jenny was both an academic and a sports woman. She gained an A Bursary in 1990, was on the senior school council and captained the Girls’ Hockey 1st XI. She went on to study at Waikato University, graduating in 1994 with a Bachelor of Management Studies (Hons) and...
Ian Fenwick
Ian was both an academic and a sportsperson. As well as gaining SC, 6th Form Certificate, UE and Bursary, Ian enjoyed sport and was a member of the 1985 and 1986 1st XV rugby team. Post school he qualified with a National Certificate in Business Studies, a Bachelor...
Jack Castle
Jack is one of the “older” ex-students of the College. He is from the generation where you started at the bottom and work your way through many jobs before reaching a very satisfying retirement. As a 3rd Former he was in the 3rd XV rugby team – he doesn’t...
Judy Parr (Grant)
Judy was a multi-talented student who excelled in many fields at school. She was an outstanding scholar, an all-round talented sportsperson and a leader among her peers. Judy was runner-up to the Dux (Marion Oliver) in 1966 receiving the Proxime Accessit Award. From...
Julie Carle (Fawcett)
Julie left school at the end of Form 6 after gaining University Entrance. She went straight to Commercial Secondary Teacher’s College in Auckland and completed the three year training course before venturing into the classroom as a very young teacher. Her entire...
Keith Brockelsby
Here’s an ex-student with a great life history. Keith was a scholar of some note – he gained all the normal school qualifications (School Cert, University Entrance and Higher School Certificate). Keith attended Auckland University and in 1955 graduated with BE...
Kelsie Wills
Kelsie is the only daughter in the talented sporting family of the “Wills-Preston” clan. During her time at school she achieved high honours in a wide sphere of sporting pursuits. Her decision to follow volleyball would not have been easy as she was a top netballer,...
Kevin Stanley
Kevin is part of Matamata’s ‘Stanley’ dynasty. From 1927 Stanley’s have been in the building industry in Matamata. Kevin completed four years at college and went straight into the family business and trained as an apprentice carpenter. Now he is Managing Director of...
Kim Whyte (Watson)
Kim was the first recipient of the, what is now known, as the Metso Art Awards in Year 12 1994 – then known as the Svedala Art Award. College artists have been honoured every year by Metso with the winner receiving financial support towards their higher education and...
Jeremy Curragh
Not only was Jeremy an outstanding sportsman, he was a whiz in the classroom. In the sports arena he was one of a very few guys to play in the 1st XV for three years. He played 50 games for the 1st‘s which was a record at the time (and may still be!) He also played...
Jill Stanley
Jill, daughter of Ex-Deputy Principal David (70’s and 80’s) and Joan, is a renowned International Scientist in the Research field. She received all her education in Matamata, firstly at the primary school and then at the intermediate followed by five years at the...
Joan Metge
Written by Joan (May 2015) I attended Matamata District High School in the second and third terms of 1943 and the whole of 1944. My family arrived in Matamata when my father Cedric Metge was appointed Head of the Intermediate School within the District High School...
John Adams
John was deputy head boy in 1965, was very involved in drama and musicals, he gained a credit pass in the University Scholarship exam, was awarded prizes for reading and drama, participated in hockey and was a member of the school choir. On leaving school John...
John A Dibble
John is the eldest son of Peter Dibble – a long serving Geography, Social Studies Teacher, back in the 50s/60s/70s. John completed four years education at Matamata College before transferring to Whakatane High School in 1973 when his father became Deputy Principal at...
Josephine Peters (Raggett)
You will all (lots, anyway) remember Miss Cranswick (English Teacher) – Josephine was her niece and she lived with Dora and Elizabeth Cranswick throughout her schooling. Josephine was in the Nick Jones era – lots of extremely bright students graduated in 1976. Nick...
Judi Thorne (McKenzie)
At school Judi was a good academic. She was always active and participated and enjoyed netball, swimming, tennis, athletics (hurdles) as well as taking part in drama and choir. She gained School Certificate and left school to start a career. She obviously enjoyed a...
Judith Barback (Hitchcock)
Judith followed in the footsteps of her parents Alan Hitchcock and Clare Dale (both of whom attended Matamata College) – all achieving at the highest academic level. Judith gained a “A” Bursary in 1999 and was awarded scholarships in English and History. Exceptionally...
Judith Collins
Judith lived in the country and one of her memories of Matamata College was the long bus trips to and from school, especially on cold and frosty mornings – I’m sure many country kids would be of the same opinion!! Hon Judith Collins has come a long way since her...
Leanne Mark (Field)
Leanne was an “energiser bunny” at school! There wasn’t anything athletic that she shied away from. As well as her sporting prowess Leanne was an excellent student in the classroom and took on many responsibilities as a leader. Leanne was her class representative...
Linda Litchwark
During her time at school Linda gained School Certificate and completed her Form 6 year. She enjoyed her involvement in stage productions. She remembers having singing parts in both “The Sound of Music” and “Oliver”, as well as being part of the School Choir. Linda...
Lindsay Tisch
Lindsay has lived most of his life in the Matamata district, was educated at Matamata College, and raised on a farm. Lindsay gained University Entrance and was a School Prefect in 1965. At school Lindsay was a talented sport – small but fast! He was the Waikato...
Louise Curragh
Louise was a “ball of energy.” Modest and unassuming but with an underlying determination that has got her to the top of her profession. She was a hard worker and achieved good results gaining six school certificate passes, 6th form certificate and a B Bursary in...
Louise Fowler
Louise says her school days were fabulous and she has many special friends and positive memories from her four and bit years at Matamata College. Louise was an “into everything” student. She achieved highly in the classroom, was always a “fun” student, loved...
Lance O’Sullivan ONZM
New Zealand’s most famous and successful jockey. Lance completed all his education in Matamata firstly at St Josephs Convent, then the Intermediate and finally for just three years at Matamata College. It was time on the back of a horse not on a school classroom...
Lyndon Settle
Lyndon attended Matamata College for five years and in his final year was Head Boy. He gained School Certificate, Sixth Form Certificate and Bursary and University Entrance in Form 7. Lyndon played for the 1st XV 1989/90 and was a talented tennis and squash player...
Kirsty Elliott
Kirsty was an outgoing young lady at school and was definitely heading for a super successful career post school days. She was highly academic gaining excellent qualifications and grades. Kirsty went on to complete a Bachelor of Law degree at Victoria University....
Kimberley Dewhurst
Kimberley completed her junior years at Morrinsville College before transferring to Matamata College for years 11-13. While studying here Kimberley gained Levels 1, 2 and 3 NCEA and University Entrance. Kimberley has a ‘bent’ for the Arts and her involvement at...
Kristen Curragh
Kristen had four years at College. She was most conscientious and talented young lady. She gained SC and SFC before heading to Waikato University. Kristen has wonderful empathy with people (I’m sure she inherit that from her Mum!) Her empathy with people led her...
Dr Kumudith Ekanayake
What years were you at school? 1987-1991 Qualifications gained at school: A Bursary Involvement in sports/cultural activities at school: First XI Football 1991, Executive Committee member Qualifications post school: MBChB (Otago) 1997 – Bachelor of Medicine and...
Kylie Lindsay
Kylie came to Matamata College from the Intermediate with a reputation as a top sportswoman. She and Nicola Browne vied for top honours in age group tennis in the Waikato region and at NZ level. Throughout her schooling she and Nicola continued their fierce rivalry...
Kristin Pilkington (Nickel)
Kristin currently has her residential address as Park City, Utah, USA. How cool is that! Kristin was involved in many sports at school – mainly sports where water or snow were involved. She competed in triathlons and swam at National Representative Level in both;...
Kylie Thompson (Darroch)
Kylie is an incredibly talented artist and graphic designer. As well as achieving top grades in NCEA in all areas she excelled in all facets of art. At the end of Year 13 Kylie won the Keeley Scholarship ($1000) and the AUT Academic Excellence Scholarship (course...
Mike Roberts
Mike is a very well-travelled individual (his comment was he has travelled “shit loads.”) He has settled in Sweden (20 years) where he owns a small company making furniture from old barns and houses that he demolishes. He also does fine carpentry. Mike learned his...
Miriam Kent
Miriam was Head Girl in 2003 and completed her Year 13 gaining a B Bursary and UE. She was extremely active at school and was involved in a huge range of activities including netball, volleyball, cricket, basketball, school productions, Shakespeare festival and the...
Moana Forbes (Reweti)
Moana arrived in Matamata as a Year 9 student with her Mum who was starting her teaching career at Matamata College. It was obvious within a few days that this young girl was to be a sports star in the making. She won all the swimming and athletic championships, was...
Moira Moroney
Moira gained a Bursary in 1983 and went on to complete a Diploma in Parks, Recreation and Tourism at Lincoln University in 1987. Later she graduated with a Diploma in Management from Massey University in 1993. This interesting qualification resulted in a very...
Murray Mason
(Written by Murray – March 2013) I was at Matamata College from 1968 until 1972 when I left at the end of 6th form proudly clutching my UE. The Mason boys (in order of age) Seager, Raymond and Murray (twins), Kerry and Grant (twins) and sister Julie were not famous...
Naomi Wilcockson
Naomi was a talented and active student and has gone on to use her talents in a vast array of fields. She gained School Cert, Trades Cert and University Entrance at school. She was always making the most of every opportunity in and out of school. Naomi participated...
Matt Slater
Shock! was the word that described Matt’s reaction at being appointed head boy in 1992. Apparently Form 5 and Form 6 Matt had a reputation that was not that of a future head boy. But as it turned out he (and Angela Munro – head girl) did a fantastic job that year. ...
Matthew Stanley
Matthew is one of the very recent successes from Matamata College. His aim is to represent his country at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. At just 20 years of age Matthew has done the miles – literally and figuratively. Starting at the Matamata Swimming Club way...
Maurice Williamson MP
Maurice was raised in Matamata, attending Hinuera Primary, Matamata Primary, Matamata Intermediate and then Matamata College. He gained University Entrance and “A” Bursary in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and Applied Mathematics. Maurice’s oratory skills were...
Memorie Brooky
Memorie and her siblings all have Brass Banding in their bones. They have been brought up with musical instruments as their ‘toys’ and have continued to play and perform all their lives. At school Memorie participated in every music group possible. She took part in...
Mark Baker
Mark followed in his father’s footsteps. Harry, dad, was the long-time editor of what is now the Matamata Chronicle. His sons saw the media as an interesting and exciting career. Mark, eldest son, became a photographer in news and sports. While at school Mark...
Mark Hitchcock
Mark attended Matamata College from 1997 to 2001. He was gifted in all fields – academic, sport and culture. After Bursary, Mark went on to study at the University of Auckland. Mark was Head Boy in his final year, played in the 1st XV rugby team and the 1st...
Mark Polgase
Mark attended Matamata College from 1966 to 1970 and was a prefect in his final year. He gained University Entrance and Higher School Certificate and was mainly involved in athletics. After leaving, Mark attended Massey University and graduated with a...
Marston Conder
Arguably the highest achieving Mathematics academic educated at Matamata College. Marston was a great all-rounder. As well as gaining a Scholarship in his final year at college, he was Head Boy, member of the Hockey 1st 11, an accomplished cross country runner and...
Peggy Lockyer
What a ball of energy! There was nothing Peggy didn’t participate in (and excel) during her time at college. She was the school swimming and athletic champion, cross country winner, captain of the A netball team, completed her life saving exams, played for the girls...
Paul Patrick
Paul was always great with words – speaking and writing! At school his love of the English language was fostered by the four “H’s” – Ms Hawe, Miss Harvey, Mr Hodge and Mr Harris. Paul credits these people for his successful career over the past three decades. At...
Peter Hunt
Peter attended Matamata College for five years gaining School Certificate in 1966, University Entrance in 1967 and University Bursary in 1968. He played for three years in the cricket 1st XI and was in the rugby 1st XV in his final year. From school Peter studied at...
Peter Stone
My days at Matamata College are full of great memories, great friends and great teachers. I recall with fondness Ewan Merry at Intermediate, Eric Fisher, Doug Olsen, Don Scott, Vic Lewis, Vi Bell, Joy Tompkins and of course, my dear old Dad, Percy Stone. With help...
Peter Vosper
If anyone was bound to accomplish something “Futuristic” post school it would be a “Vosper”. Peter, the youngest of five highly intelligent, uninhibited, original and dynamic kids was full of enthusiasm. Peter was a “stage” man but it wasn’t until he left school and...
Phillipa Muir
BA, LLB Many successful and prominent businesswomen were educated at Matamata College in the 70s. Phillipa is one of a host of these successes and went on to gain a Bachelor of Arts and Law Degrees at Otago University in 1982. While at school Phillipa was an...
Natalie Curtis
Amazing feats this young lady has achieved – all at a very young age. “A WORLD CHAMPION!” Natalie commenced this illustrious shooting career at the 14. She started at college when Mr Oliver put a gun in her hand, sent her off to the local Gun Club and what follows is...
Nicholas P Jones
Nicholas (Nick) relished competition and success. During his five years at school he was the top student every year and this culminated in Nick receiving the Dux Award and gaining a Junior Scholarship at the end of his 7th Form year. (Nick was known to be...
Nicola Browne
If ever anyone was looking for Nic Browne, she could be found bowling cricket balls or batting with the guys at every opportunity – usually gaining the upperhand! As well as being one of the school’s best ever all-round athletes, Nicola was extremely conscientious. ...
Nik Brunner
Nik completed three and a half years at school before starting a job at McSweeney and Neill Chemists in town where he worked developing photos. Nik was very involved in sport at school. He was a top athlete (sprinter) and swimmer and played rugby for the 2nd XV. ...
O’Carroll Family
Catherine O’Carroll 1976-1980 An extremely talented and busy lady. Teaching was obviously in the blood of the O’Carroll family and Catherine certainly didn’t disappoint! As well as having the athleticism of the “O’Carroll’s” Catherine also had a...
Richard Wright
Richard was a talented all-round sportsman throughout his years here and he has become the most successful male golfer to leave this school. While at school he gained three bursary subjects, played for the 1st XI cricket team for three years, was a member of the...
Richie Harris
Academic, Sport and loads of personality. Richie had it all! He left school with excellent qualifications, was a school prefect and spent many hours honing his sporting skills. Swimming champion, athletics prowess, captain of both soccer and cricket team. In...
Robyn Wylie (Mudford)
ROBYN WYLIE (MUDFORD) 1979-1982 An extremely conscientious young lady at school. These traits have been passed on to her (their) three children who have recently completed their education here at Matamata College. Robyn left school and worked as a...
Sandra Doherty (Howe)
As well as teaching for 30 years without a break this (young) lady has an exceptional feat. She has had six holes in one at golf. Most golfers strive for a lifetime never accomplishing one, let alone six! She and her husband Chris (who has had four holes in one)...
Sandra Matenga (Fawcett)
Sandra was the eldest Fawcett daughter and a very talented sportswoman. For the two years she was at College she was a member of the College A netball and also took part in a range of other sports. Volleyball wasn’t a recognized sport here at the College in 1969 but...
Sarah Fitness
Sarah completed three years at Matamata College before a shift to Waihi College. Sarah had a flair for maths and science and gained her Level 1 maths in Year 10. As well she had a flair for fashion design. Sarah was undecided about her career and didn’t go on to...
Shirley Hooper
From her first day at school this young lady was on a mission – that was to be successful in all fields of endeavour. She looked the part, she spoke well, she had a presence (even as a Year 9 3rd Former) she participated in everything, she knew how to win people over...
Sheryl Meijer (Davis)
Sheryl gained School Certificate (1966), University Entrance/Higher School Certificate (1967) and completed a Chamber of Commerce Exam in Bookkeeping (1967). She was a keen sportswoman and represented the school in many different codes. She swam in the school team...
Sharon De Haas
Sharon spent three years at College and gained School Certificate. She came through the Commercial course and was in my first class when I was a PA. Sharon was a bright, active young lady and excelled in athletics and netball being a member of 3rds A, 4ths A and...
Shane Menzies
Shane is highly motivated and his energies have taken him to all parts of the globe. He left school with 6th Form Certificate during his 7th form year joined the Royal New Zealand Navy commencing a six year apprenticeship in Radio Electronics. Shane has a...
Scott Bevege CPCU ARe
Chicago, IL, United States Scott was an extremely promising golfer during his school days. He played off a 5 Handicap at school and was the mainstay of the college team during his time. Although he did not make the “big time” on the course – he...
Sarah Morgan
Sarah attended college from 2000 to 2004 – and never stopped running. She won every long distance race at the athletic sports, the cross country, Thames Valley and Waikato Championships and many New Zealand titles. She was a machine – that trained hard!! After five...
Richard Prevett CA
Richard is one of a very few ex-students to win a New Zealand Athletic event. As well as many achievements including hockey 1st II and Piako and Waikato hockey representative, school tennis champion and athletics, he became a Waikato and New Zealand 400 m hurdles...
Richard Nunns
After Matamata College, Richard set off for Canterbury University where he completed his teacher training. He briefly taught at Fairfield Intermediate (Hamilton) and then won a position at Fairfield College teaching English and Educational Drama. Promotion saw him...
Rebecca Milligan
Rebecca is a financial accountant skilled at both detailed analysis and accounts preparation. She has an eye for detail and a flair for process and efficiency improvement. Rebecca also has a proven ability in liaising with and influencing people at all levels of an...
Raewyn (Rae) Hooper
Rae started school in 1967 and finished with the University Entrance qualification in 1970. On leaving school Rae trained for two years in the laboratories at Waikato Hospital. She married and had her first child in 1972 followed by two others in 1975 and 1979....
Rachael Carter
Rachael was one of the real characters of her time. She was selected as Head Girl in 1984 in spite of the mischief she got up to during her early years at school. This “kid” had spark and knew how to turn bad into good. Rachael was a really special character as she...
Steve Hitchcock
Number 3 of the Hitchcock family was also multi-talented. In the academic field he was Dux in 2003. In Year 9 he proudly remembers receiving a gold medal in the Australian Maths Competition and went on to achieve at the highest level in this maths competition for...
Simon Nunns
Simon has had a varied, interesting and fascinating life since leaving Matamata College in 1984. He was an extremely bright lad destined to do great things. Simon won an A Bursary and was Dux of the College in 1984. Wine was not part of the picture when a young...
Simon Kneebone
Simon is from a long line of Kneebone’s who have attended Matamata College. A true academic and sportsman. Head boy 1983 and 1st Fifteen member in 1982/83. Academically, although not Dux, Simon was a very high achiever and obtained an A Bursary in 1983. Some of...
Simon Friar
Simon started his Secondary Education at Gisborne Boys’ High and did his final year at Matamata College after his parents purchased the Walton Store. From school, where Simon doesn’t claim to have done anything “famous” he went on to graduate with a Diploma of...
Simon Coleman
Simon Coleman is a set designer, director of theatre and musical theatre, producer… the list goes on. When asked: how did you start in theatre? After a couple of years of ballet and at the age of seven, I discovered my life-long passion – to be The Six Million...
Sue Moroney
Sue gained UE (accredited) and won the history prize when in Form 6. On leaving school she worked briefly in racing stables before getting a position as a reporter for the Matamata Chronicle. From there Sue studied Journalism at ATI where she graduated with a...
Suzanne Hawe
The School Librarian and Teacher in Charge of the Library were very fortunate to have Sue as their Head Librarian in 1980. She held the position of school librarian for all her years at school. Sue was dedicated to her job, used her initiative and thoroughly enjoyed...
Sue Anderson
Sue was an extremely motivated academic, a sportsperson and enjoyed the arts. Many people will remember Sue’s Dad Joe, who was an icon at Matamata Intermediate and was a Representative Rugby Coach for Roller Mills and for a few years for Waikato School Boy Rugby. He...
Terere Aoake
Terere is the youngest of a long line of very successful Aoake Whanau who have attended this school. They have a great sporting tradition and have all contributed to the culture of the school. Terere completed five years at college gaining Levels 1, 2 and 3 and...
Terry Hamilton
Terry was a hugely respected teacher and friend of many. He instilled a love of geography and English in many unsuspecting students. Terry soon rose to the position of Head of the Geography Department. He had empathy and affinity with his students and a masterful...
The Joe Family
THE JOE FAMILY – Adrian, Mervyn, Patricia (Trisha) and Steve A family of high achievers both academically and on the sports field. ADRIAN 1963-1967 Dr Steve, Denny (deceased), Trisha, Adrian, Mervyn On leaving school with top results in School Cert, University...
Thomas Sainsbury
At school Thomas was into everything drama. His talent was immense. In school productions Thomas was usually the lead and his wit and charisma on stage was limitless. He did find time to participate in sports as well – particularly hockey and athletics. Thomas...
Tim Van De Molen
Tim is the latest sensation from Matamata College to gain prominence in his field. He has (May/June 2013) just been named as New Zealand Young Farmer of the Year. An absolutely fantastic accomplishment! At school Tim was very active and involved in many spheres of...
Roger Loveridge
Not only a sports lover, Roger went on to be a very successful auctioneer. I have been told that he was quite the ‘talker’ at school! He gained University Entrance in 1954 and was the Head boy that same year. Roger was an all-rounder. He played for the 1st XV Rugby...
Travis Scott
Travis is a man with a mission. While here at school there wasn’t a minute in the day where he was idle. In the classroom he was exceptional, on the sports field he was a top competitor and among his peers he was a leader and forward thinker. Travis gained...
Stephen Pankhurst
Stephen’s memories of Matamata College were mainly of the “Class of 76” – the smart group as Stephen recalls. Stephen excelled in the classroom and went on to Waikato University and graduated with the Bachelor of Business Management and furthered his...
Teresa Stanley
Teresa was capable of anything at school and so it has transpired into her working life. At college she was a conscientious academic gaining school certificate and having university entrance accredited. Part way through her Form 7 year she transferred to Burnside...
Vanessa Oshima (Mackenzie)
At school Vanessa was an outstanding student gaining top marks in School Certificate and Sixth Form Certificate before leaving New Zealand as part of the Rotary Exchange Programme supported by the Matamata Rotary Club. Although she had clearly written Canada as her...
Wally Penetito
Wally says his life has revolved around his immediate and extended family and the world of education. He recalls very fondly memories of Matamata College, especially those he attended school with and those who were his teachers. (Sadly many won’t be around for the...
Warren Bowers
Charismatic and charming best describe Warren’s personality. At school Warren loved the cultural side of life – he took part in a whole range of pursuits: music, library, debating, drama etc. He says he wasn’t passionate about sport but was a reluctant member of...
Weston Bell
No achievements or prizes during my college years, but on leaving with mainly a science background I was fortunate to have decided to go into accountancy. I started my career in Wellington when there was an acute shortage of such people at that time. This led...
Andrew Wright
As a real youngest Andrew was always at golf – that was inevitable as Mum, Dad, Richard and Paul were almost permanently on the course. Andrew started playing regularly at the age of 10 and showed real promise from the outset. It wasn’t long before he was winning...
Paul Wright
Another excellent all-round sportsperson. As well as being a scratch golfer at school, Paul also played cricket for the 1st XI in Year 13 having earlier played junior rep cricket for Thames Valley. At school, Paul was in the first year of Level 3 NECA and he gained...
Richard Wright
Richard was a talented all-round sportsman throughout his years here and he has become the most successful male golfer to leave this school. While at school he gained three bursary subjects, played for the 1st XI cricket team for three years, was a member of the...