An outstanding year of achievement for Hurunui students

It was an afternoon of celebration and considerable pride Tuesday 16 December in Council Chambers, as eight students from across the District were recognised at the 2025 Secondary School Achievers Awards.

After a karakia from Mayor Marie Black, Secondary School Achievers panel members, Anna Wishart and Gwyn Williams spoke to the assembled parents, teachers and well-wishers about the difference an award like this can make in a young person’s life and how proud parents and caregivers should be about these achievements.

Guest speaker George Black, a young farmer from Waikari, possibly best known for his 100km gumboot-running fundraiser, was entertaining and inspirational in equal measure. He talked about integrity, not compromising your beliefs, and fortune favouring the brave.

Also on-hand to support the recipients, were Principal of Amuri Area School, Matt Barlow; alongside Lewis Turner, Deputy Principal of Hurunui College and Year 13 Form Teacher, Phil Biddlecombe.

The Award recipients are as follows: Alexis Sandall (Hanmer Springs - Nelson College for Girls); Bianca Dela Vega (Rotherham - Amuri Area School); Cris Tabunar (Culverden – Amuri Area School); Grace Cundy (Hanmer Springs-Amuri Area School); Jack Higinbottom (Cheviot-St Bedes College); Ma Kyla Domingo (Rotheram-Amuri Area School); Madison Wayne (Culverden – Amuri Area School); William Munsey (Hawarden – Hurunui College)

Mayor Black cited this event as a very special occasion in the District calendar. “A Student Achievers Award represents not the end of the journey, but a sign of your potential.” She reminded each recipient to continue to “be curious, work hard and back yourself.” Mayor Marie also acknowledged the families and teachers who have walked beside these young people as each of the recipients have shown commitment, resilience and the willingness to challenge themselves, representing the very best of what the Hurunui District stands for.

The judging panel for the 2025 Awards included Mayor Black; Councillor Steve Hutt; Buddle Findlay representative, Anna Wishart; Youth Council representative, Sylvia Jongerius; and three independent members – Allan Easte, Garry Jackson and Gwyn Williams.

The Fund was first established in 2000, and to date 161 young people have received grants. Hurunui District Council gives $10,000 annually to the fund and Council’s Law Firm, Buddle Findlay generously sponsors $1,500.

For details on applying for the 2026 Secondary School Achievers Fund, please visit https://www.hurunui.govt.nz/community/awards-and-f...