2022 Wreath Laying Ceremony

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On 11 March 2022, Ōtaki College held its annual SS Otaki Wreath Laying Ceremony. Distinguished guests included Terisa Ngobi, MP for Ōtaki, Denise Hapeta, Chair of Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki, representatives of local government, the merchant navy and related organisations, Royal NZ Navy, Royal NZ Air Force, representatives from the British and German Embassies and the Ōtaki RSA.

The ceremony holds a special place in the College calendar as it serves to introduce younger students to the concepts of courage and bravery - not just in war but in everyday life. This year’s ceremony also honoured the 80th anniversary of the Arctic voyage of Merchant shipping convoy PQ17 during the Second World War. Just 11 of the original 35 ships reached their destinations at Murmansk and Arkhangelsk, making it one of the one of the most dangerous convoys to take place during the war.