Update after Lockdown

Kia ora parents and caregivers

Further to the event yesterday we would like to provide you with a quick update of the situation.

The school responded to an anonymous phone threat that intimated a gunman would be on site. We followed the direction of the New Zealand Police who supported the school through this event. At this point the police have not been able to provide any updates as to whether they have found the person who made the phone call.

Nobody was found to be on site at any time yesterday. We understand that the lockdown dragged on but until an all clear was received from the police and they were fully confident that there was no risk then the best thing to do was remain safe and secure.

We understand that this was a challenging day but due to the drills we have completed in the past and the work we have done to have a robust Emergency Management Plan alongside Harrison Tew our Emergency Planning Specialist Advisors we had a process in place. We were then able to follow this process and ensure that we kept the students safe while we waited for clearance from the NZ Police. I would like to thank and acknowledge the police officers that were on site yesterday. They were professional and thoughtful in their approach. In situations such as this it is a reminder of the job that they must do often with the possibility of being in harm’s way. We appreciate all of our police force for the work that they do.

We are very proud of all staff and students who responded in a positive manner and followed procedures to the letter. Thank you also to the whanau who have indicated their appreciation for our approach with this challenging moment in time. It was not the best of days, but it did reveal the true strength of character of the people in our community and I am appreciative of this.

Kia Kaha

Gary Moore