Fresh directions for NZ's oldest school

Jonah Lomu. Photo / Getty Images

A major milestone for the country's oldest school will see some of its famous alumni meet up - and some keen discussion on what its future holds.

Wesley College, at Paerata near Pukekohe, marks 170 years of existence with reunion celebrations this weekend.

The integrated school's notable alumni include Jonah Lomu, Temuera Morrison and Weta Workshop co-founder Sir Richard Taylor.

Around 300 people are registered to attend the celebrations with many more expected, and the oldest alumnus attending was a student at the college in 1927.

Wesley College Old Students Association president Roger Jolley said it was hoped Lomu would kick off a special commemorative game between old boys of the college and traditional rivals St Stephen's.

Wesley and St Stephen's, which closed its doors in 2000, once dominated school rugby in the area.

"They've had some great players and so have we. So it will be a bit of fun and hopefully injury-free.

"We're hoping Jonah will trot out and do the kick-off. He may not be able to make it, though."

Mr Jolley said it was hoped that King Tuheitia would also attend but that depended on his health.

The Maori King, who is a St Stephen's old boy and has a younger brother who attended Wesley, was recently discharged from hospital after a diabetes-related ailment.

Speakers at tonight's reunion dinner include Morrison, who starred in films including Once Were Warriors and Star Wars after attending Wesley.

Mr Jolley said a hot topic of discussion would be the future of the decile 2 school, with its board due to give an update on various options that were being considered.

The college's dairy farm has been sold for intensive housing.

That deal was opposed by some former students but the college's trust argued the money was badly needed to secure the school's future and protect its special character.

"They will be building a town out there on the school farm, and the implications for the school could mean relocating or refurbishment, the board are still considering all of that," Mr Jolley said.

"Certainly the old students are keen to see the special character of the school is maintained and enhanced."

170 years young
• Wesley College celebrates 170 years of existence this weekend with a reunion.
• Famous past pupils include Jonah Lomu, Temuera Morrison and Sir Richard Taylor.
• The college recently sold off farmland, on which thousands of houses will be built as part of the Auckland Housing Accord.