The Senior Prize Giving is a prestigious highlight of the school year. It is a moment to pause, reflect with pride, and honour the remarkable accomplishments of our students.
The ceremony began with a Karakia led by Amber-Keisha Kuluia Hampton-Toko- Mikahere and Mihimih led by Kara Belki. The OHS Kapa Haka group performed the Waiata Tautoko.
In her address, Principal Shameen Hayat thanked the Board and staff for their professionalism and dedication, and noted the continued improvement in academic results. She reminded us that academic success matters because it builds belief, creates opportunity, and transforms futures. All students were celebrated for their growth, contribution, and commitment to Onehunga High’s WAKA values of Respect, Integrity, Resilience, and Excellence, guided by the OHS motto, Loyalty and Courage. To leavers, she urged them to go forward with courage and integrity, carrying the school’s values and spirit with them as proud members of the Onehunga whānau.
Entertainment was provided by the OHS Jazz band playing ‘Isn’t She Lovely” and Vaitofiga Anesone, Rotralea Lavea and Ana Teulilo, who sang a Samoan cover of ‘Don’t Dream It’s Over’ by Nyssa Collins.
During the ceremony, more than $260,000 in awards and scholarships was presented to our students, funding that will help support them in their future pursuits. Congratulations to all our scholarship recipients, and heartfelt thanks to the many individuals and organisations whose generosity made this possible
Many talented and hardworking students were recognised for their achievements. We would especially like to acknowledge the following prestigious award winners:
Jubilee Cup - This cup recognises a student who, in words and deeds, reflects the school motto of “by loyalty and courage” and who has upheld the values this motto represents. The 2025 recipient is N’Kara Tiumalu.
Humanitarian Award - This award is given to students nominated by staff, who have unselfishly given their time to improve the lives of others. Congratulations Lile-Rose Sinisa.
People’s Choice Award- is awarded to the Year 13 student who is voted by their peers to have made the most significant contribution to Year 13 and the student community during their time at OHS - 2025 winner Lile-Rose Sinisa.
Dennie Walls Endeavour Cup - is presented to a student who inspires us with their effort, determination and persistence to achieve, despite barriers that are present. This year's recipient - Stevie Lee
Year 12 Top Scholar- is awarded to the Year 12 student with the highest academic achievement. Congratulations, Olivia Clark.
Dux Ludorum- This is awarded to a student who has demonstrated outstanding sporting Achievements. The 2025 Dux Ludorum is Lisa Hellyer, for an unprecedented third year in a row!
Proxime Accessit- This is awarded to the student who is runner-up to Dux and represents outstanding academic achievement. The 2025 Proxime Accessit is Sumaiyah Aaliya.
Dux Litterarum is the most prestigious academic award. It signifies the top achiever for 2025. The 2025 Dux Litterarum is Rosie Taylor. Congratulations Rosie!
Head Prefects Amber-Keisha Kuluia- Hampton-Toko-Mikahere and Jacob Cooper reflected on their time at OHS. They observed how much their cohorts had grown and changed as a result of all the opportunities and challenges they had faced. Both students are grateful for the friendships and camaraderie of their peers. They thanked the prefect team, staff, their Dean, Mr Jeff McKay, Ms Karen Bellis and Ms Hayat for their support and guidance.
Congratulations to all of our award winners. To our leavers, we wish you all the very best. Continue to live by our WAKA values and carry with you the spirit of Loyalty and Courage that will always connect you to the Onehunga whānau.
