Students and staff gathered to reflect on the impact of war and the enduring legacy of those connected to the Onehunga community.

The Onehunga High School community gathered today for a poignant ANZAC Assembly to honour the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces. The whole school attended the event, which served as a significant educational opportunity for students to understand the deep connections between ANZAC Day and the local Onehunga community. 

Throughout the proceedings, the student body maintained an exemplary level of respect, reflecting the importance and gravity of the occasion. The assembly was led by the Executive Prefect Team, including Head Prefects Tali Feu’u and Lydia MacDonald, and Deputy Heads Alofa Lawrence and Levi Ah Sam, with Deputy Principal Mr Haines guiding the formal proceedings. Speeches from the Head Prefects and Deputy Head Levi Ah Sam set a reflective and respectful tone for the event. The assembly focused on the local impact of the First World War, noting that the Onehunga community lost eighty-nine young men during the conflict. These names are immortalised on the memorials located at Jellicoe Park, which stand as a permanent reminder of the lives lost from our neighbourhood. 

The historical narrative extended to the school’s own legacy, noting that since Onehunga High School opened its doors in 1959, a substantial number of former students have gone on to serve in the New Zealand Defence Force. These individuals have represented the country in various overseas conflicts and missions, including the Vietnam War, the conflict in Afghanistan, and vital peacekeeping operations in East Timor. A central part of the assembly was the formal Act of Remembrance. This moving sequence included the sounding of the Last Post, followed by a minute of silence, allowing students and staff to reflect personally on the cost of war.

To conclude this tribute, a wreath was presented at the front of the assembly as a symbol of the school’s collective acknowledgement. In remembrance of those who served and sacrificed, we honour their legacy. 

Lest we forget.