Five new principals for North Canterbury schools
By David Hill, Local Democracy Reporter
Five North Canterbury schools will begin the year with new principals.
Former principal and Rangiora High School board of trustees presiding member Simon Green said it was a normal level of turnover for the region.
‘‘It is certainly in line with the last four to five years.’’
Last year there were about 15 school principals across the Waimakariri and Hurunui districts announcing their retirement or starting new roles over the previous 12 months.
Green said it showed principals were thinking more about their work/life balance.
‘‘Traditionally in North Canterbury people stayed in a job a long term, but those days are gone and people are more willing to move and take on new roles.’’
Amy O’Kane is the new principal at Ohoka School, near Kaiapoi, while at View High School, near Oxford, Pax O’Dowd is the new principal.
Kate Hassall has stepped up from deputy principal to the top job at North Loburn School, north of Rangiora, while Rebecca Pugh is new principal at Greta Valley School.
Jo Fissenden (pictured) has been promoted from deputy principal to principal at Kaikōura High School.
At Hurunui College, deputy principal Jane Marsh will be stepping up as acting principle while Stephen Beck takes up a secondment as the Ministry of Education’s area schools adviser.
Principals are employed by a school's elected board of trustees.
■ LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Musicians Wanted
‘Rangiora Bells’ is seeking musicians to join the handbell choir. We are a friendly group of handbell ringers who enjoy making music and entertaining at community groups.
If you would like to come and have a go at ringing handbells, please come along to one of our practice sessions. No commitment necessary if you decide that this is not for you.
An ability to read basic music notation preferred.
Practice days – Thursdays 1pm – 2.30pm
(beginning 19th February 2026)
In the lounge at Trinity Methodist Church
176 King Street
Rangiora
Clare Dolheguy
Phone 027 583 7504
claredoll6@gmail.com
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