2019 SS Otaki Wreath Laying Ceremony

To continue to mark the sinking of the SS Otaki on March 10, 1917 by the German Raider Moewe and the huge contribution that the Merchant Navy has made during war and peace, the annual SS Otaki/Merchant Navy Day took place on March 11 at the College. Significantly, this year’s event was organised by a group of senior students. My thanks to Lauren Blakeley, Tutaamure Nikora, Ande Hakaraia, Kahe Nakhla and Jacob Gates - thank you and well done. My thanks also to Reverend Lance Lukin for officiating and to Bandmaster Captain Chris Collings and the members of the Combined Bands of the Salvation Army Levin Corps and Districts Brass Band for giving up their time to attend.

Amongst the distinguished guests attending were His Worship K Gurunathan, Mayor of Kāpiti Coast District, Mr Rupene Waaka, Chair, Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki, representatives of the Merchant Navy Association, Royal New Zealand Navy, British High Commission, New Zealand Shipping Company, NZ Company of Master Mariners, Durham Association, Aeronautical and Marine Engineers Association, Russian Convoy Club and the Ōtaki and District Memorial RSA.

This event was a huge success and a large number of those who attended have indicated that they are looking forward to their continued participation in future years.

Andy Fraser, Principal