Ex-principal dies aged 73

Ian Hamilton

Former Wanganui City College principal Ian Hamilton died in his sleep this week, aged 73.

Current college principal Peter Kaua said yesterday his first connection with Mr Hamilton was through his two younger brothers who attended Boys College in the early and mid-1980s. They had a huge respect for Mr Hamilton and regarded him as a great principal and mentor.

"I remember meeting Ian for the first time, a few weeks after assuming the principal's position at City College, and I was humbled by his passion and loyalty for the college and walked away from that meeting knowing that I had his full support in the job.

"He was like that - a real team man."

Mr Hamilton was a frequent visitor to the college and attended various school prizegivings and other occasions.

His last service to the school was as the examinations centre manager for the NCEA external examinations last year.

"Ian leaves a legacy in the school based on strong tradition and values and we will miss him."

Born in New Plymouth, Mr Hamilton's secondary education was at New Plymouth Boys High School before he went on to teachers training college.

He was deputy-head at what was then Wanganui Boys' College from 1976-84 and took over as headmaster in 1984, a position he held until 1998.

A keen sportsman, he served as chairman of New Zealand Schools' Rugby.

After retiring from frontline schooling, he worked for the Education Review Office.

He is survived by his wife Carole, two daughters and a son.

-There will be a service for Mr Hamilton in the City College hall at 2pm on Monday.