North Canterbury Gathering, Waipara 2026

On Monday 23 February, more than 60 Old Collegians and their partners gathered with Rector Mark Wilson, OCA President, Zoe Merrick (OC 2014) Head of Development and Community Relations, Tomo Yee (OC 2008) and Alumni Manager, Lisa Clark, for our second North Canterbury Gathering at the beautiful Waipara Springs Winery.

The conditions were once again ideal, and the vineyard backdrop created the perfect setting for an afternoon of reconnecting. Alumni ranging from the Class of 1948 through to 2015 were represented, making for a wonderfully diverse mix of stories, shared memories, and lively conversation. It was especially lovely to welcome several guests who were attending their first Old Cols event since they left the College.

This year’s Head Boarders, Henry Tayler and Katie Taggart, joined us once again. They shared insights from boarding today and enjoyed hearing reflections from generations of boarders who paved the way before them.

Seeing so many North Canterbury-based Old Collegians, many of whom are current or former College parents and grandparents, reinforced the strong community spirit that continues to define our alumni network.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and helped create such a memorable gathering, and to our generous host, Andrew Moore (OC 1991). We’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year!