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Epsom Girls Grammar principal Brenda McNaughton shared a former student’s private information, causing a privacy breach.
Some students claim the school feels like a “prison” and protest changes including increased periods and shorter lunch breaks.
The school is reviewing policies with the … View moreEpsom Girls Grammar principal Brenda McNaughton shared a former student’s private information, causing a privacy breach.
Some students claim the school feels like a “prison” and protest changes including increased periods and shorter lunch breaks.
The school is reviewing policies with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner following the breach.
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A top Auckland school principal has been caught on a secret recording telling staff “when others go low, we choose to go high” after a serious privacy breach involving a former student.
It comes amid a student revolt at Epsom Girls Grammar School (EGGS), with claims the college feels more like a “prison” than a place of learning.
Last Saturday, the Herald revealed principal Brenda McNaughton shared the name and confidential details of a former student who complained about disgraced music teacher Peter Thomas with another student’s father.
Following this reporting, an audio file appearing to be of McNaughton speaking to staff on Monday was provided to the Herald.
In the recording, she allegedly said: “As soon as we were aware of [the breach], we’ve been working with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner and following their advice right throughout.”
The school was reviewing policies and procedures, “certainly not starting from a position of deficit, but continually improving that space”.
She also acknowledged the “good work” she said the school had done regarding privacy.
“We are a large and very diverse community, and, in any large community, there are a small number who do get disgruntled, from time to time.”
The Herald, she told staff, did get one thing right - the description of EGGS as a “top school” in the headline.
“Our job, and what we do here at Epsom Girls Grammar School, is when others go low, we choose to go high.”
Speaking to the Herald on the condition of anonymity, an EGGS staffer said they believed McNaughton hadn’t acknowledged the mistake or taken responsibility.
They also said there had been no apology about the breach to staff.
Following Monday’s staff meeting about the privacy breach, the staffer was in “disbelief”.
“I was just so shocked, I couldn’t believe it.
“I don’t know who she was getting at with that ‘disgruntled’ comment, and, ‘When they go low we go high’. Who has gone low here? You have just been shown not to have been looking after the [privacy breach] victim. No one has gone low, it’s just the truth.”
The worker felt McNaughton cared more about protecting her own privacy than that of the former student.
‘Like a prison’
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On Tuesday, the Herald was sent an email signed by “24 anonymous” EGGS students.
In the correspondence, the students raise a list of grievances, including the increase next year from five daily periods to six, 30-minute lunch breaks and allegedly banning students from wearing thermals under their uniforms.
The email claims the school is trying to work students in to the ground.
The email also raised concerns about the privacy breach and the way confidential information was handled by the school.
The Herald was also sent an image of a poster displayed at the school featuring an image of a smiling man in handcuffs and a headline stating: “When your mum picks you up from school early”.
The poster included an image of McNaughton under the words “prime suspect”.
Underneath was a list taking aim at similar issues to those canvassed in the email.
“We, the students of Epsom Girls Grammar School, are protesting the potential changes in the process being made by principal McNaughton, which have made our school feel more like a prison than a place of learning.”
The document said changes to the timetable would cause confusion, and stricter rules made it harder to enjoy school.
“We believe school should be a place that helps us grow, not one that feels controlling and stressful. We deserve an environment where we can learn and express ourselves freely, without feeling restricted by unnecessary rules.
“We are asking for the school to rethink these changes and create a system that respects students’ needs and well-being. We want to feel safe, heard and supported, so we can thrive both academically and personally.”
The Herald repeatedly sought comment from the school this week but is yet to receive a response.
Recent school controversy
======================
Last year former EGGS teacher Peter Thomas lost his fight to keep details about his misconduct with a student secret and a Teachers’ Disciplinary Tribunal ruling against him was made public.
The tribunal evidence found Thomas “prevailed on [another student] to have sex with him, which ... was painful but to which she felt she could not say no”.
While the allegations of the sexual relationship between the former EGGS head of music and the girl had been publicised in 2021, it was only last year that the ruling could be shared.
After the ruling was shared a second former student came forward to the Herald alleging she too had complained about Thomas’ conduct.
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Kiwi Self Storage, Mt Roskill, offers a range of storage units ranging from wardrobe size, right up to 6 x 3 units for your entire home or business. We have drive up access units along with storage for vehicles and boats. Our large drive in undercover loading area with goods trolleys make moving … View moreKiwi Self Storage, Mt Roskill, offers a range of storage units ranging from wardrobe size, right up to 6 x 3 units for your entire home or business. We have drive up access units along with storage for vehicles and boats. Our large drive in undercover loading area with goods trolleys make moving your items easy. A free loan trailer is also available.
Our facilities are located in Auckland and Wellington. Our Mt Roskill facility is located next to SH20 and near Dominion Road, making most of Auckland easily accessible. The Box-shop on site provides a full range of moving and packaging supplies. See below for links to locations.
Our team are storage experts, happy to help you with advice for all your storage needs. Residential or Commercial. Why not contact us via our website or give us a call and let us show you the best storage option in New Zealand.
To learn more visit our website.
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Safety cameras improve road safety by encouraging adherence to speed limits and red lights.
Evidence shows they significantly reduce speeds, crashes, deaths and serious injuries.
The safety camera network is expanding, transitioning from police to broader national coverage.
… View moreSafety cameras improve road safety by encouraging adherence to speed limits and red lights.
Evidence shows they significantly reduce speeds, crashes, deaths and serious injuries.
The safety camera network is expanding, transitioning from police to broader national coverage.
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The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has announced it will have new mobile safety cameras in SUVs next week, with trailers set to join the fleet later this year.
For the first time in New Zealand, speeding vehicles will be detected by cameras operating in SUVs, alongside the vans that police have traditionally used, the agency said.
NZTA announced that trailers with safety cameras will also be added later this year.
“A camera-equipped sports utility vehicle [SUV] will be parking up on roadsides across Auckland from next Tuesday [May 13] to improve safety for all road users by detecting drivers exceeding speed limits.
“In the coming months, it will be joined by other SUVs and trailers as NZTA expands its mobile safety camera operations across the country to a total of 44 mobile cameras – 35 of which will be operating at any given time.”
From July 1, NZTA said it will be responsible for the operation of all safety cameras and New Zealand Police will no longer be using camera vans.
The police will continue to issue notices for the offences they detect.
New cameras set to reduce harm caused by crashes
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NZTA said speeding drivers can cause serious harm on the roads, including deaths and serious injuries.
“Evidence shows that we can reduce the chance of people being killed or seriously injured in crashes if drivers travel within speed limits, and that is why we have safety cameras,” said head of regulatory strategic programmes Tara Macmillan.
“Mobile safety cameras reduce deaths and serious injuries by discouraging speeding generally, and they are most effective when they are deployed nationwide on a ‘anytime, anywhere’ basis.”
The exact timing and location of mobile safety cameras is informed by evidence, which may include crash data and feedback from local communities.
Mobile cameras are set to be used in places where there is a risk of people being killed or seriously injured in a crash.
“Evidence shows that unsigned mobile safety cameras are twice as effective at reducing crashes than signposted cameras, so while our safety cameras in SUVs and trailers will be visible to drivers and will not be hidden, they won’t be signposted,” Macmillan said.
NZTA said it will not receive any incentives or funds from tickets issued. Safety camera infringement fees go into the Government Consolidated Fund.
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Throughout the month, food and products across New Zealand get recalled for various reasons. Click on the blue title to read more about why the item has been recalled.
Food recalls:
Ārepa Brain drink
Imported whole frozen anchovies
New World Ravenswood cordon bleu
… View moreThroughout the month, food and products across New Zealand get recalled for various reasons. Click on the blue title to read more about why the item has been recalled.
Food recalls:
Ārepa Brain drink
Imported whole frozen anchovies
New World Ravenswood cordon bleu
Little Island hokey pokey coconut ice cream
Pams afghan oat baked bars
Product recalls:
Postie various baby merino clothing
Santa Cruz Heckler E-bike
PPG Paints Easycoat interior paint - sold at Bunnings
Tikiri dino teethers - sold at Sleep Store, Auckland Zoo, Mighty Ape and other retailers
North Face Shellista V Mid Waterproof Boots
Anko wooden Fire truck - sold at Kmart
Panda Mart candle light
H&M children's pyjama sets
Didn't see last month's list of recalls? Click here to browse that list too.
Their dimensions are:
Chubby hole shelving 107 x 101 x 31cm
Cabinet is 120 x 70 x 55cm
Door is 200 x 85 x 4cm
must pickup from ngatiawa st.
Take the guesswork out of square foot growing with this simple homemade spacing guide, complete with Resene colour-coded holes for easy planting and a dibber to sow seeds at the desired depth. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
From May to September 2025, we'll be constructing a shared use path (SUP) next to SH16 The Strand to improve pedestrian safety and provide a route separate from the road for cyclists along this heavy freight corridor.
Majority of the work will be carried out during the weekday (7am to 5pm) … View moreFrom May to September 2025, we'll be constructing a shared use path (SUP) next to SH16 The Strand to improve pedestrian safety and provide a route separate from the road for cyclists along this heavy freight corridor.
Majority of the work will be carried out during the weekday (7am to 5pm) and traffic will still be able to travel along SH16.
Exclusive to Imagine Holidays, this extraordinary adventure captures the best of Australia by land, rail and sea. Begin with a 10-night full-board cruise to Australia, followed by a luxurious hotel stay in Adelaide.
You’ll then, step on board the iconic Ghan for a two-night, all-inclusive rail… View moreExclusive to Imagine Holidays, this extraordinary adventure captures the best of Australia by land, rail and sea. Begin with a 10-night full-board cruise to Australia, followed by a luxurious hotel stay in Adelaide.
You’ll then, step on board the iconic Ghan for a two-night, all-inclusive rail journey through Australia’s Red Centre. Your journey culminates with two nights in tropical Darwin, including a breathtaking Charles Darwin sunset cruise — the perfect finale to your outback exploration.
With all flights, taxes and transfers taken care of, this seamlessly curated holiday is the ultimate way to discover Australia in unrivalled style and comfort.
Hi all
I have an assortment of cat items to purchase as a bundle as they have not been utilised and I need to move them on due to shortage of storage space. Most have not been used as my cat was 2 years old when I got him and is more an outdoor cat. Great starter kit for new fur baby and items … View moreHi all
I have an assortment of cat items to purchase as a bundle as they have not been utilised and I need to move them on due to shortage of storage space. Most have not been used as my cat was 2 years old when I got him and is more an outdoor cat. Great starter kit for new fur baby and items include:
Pet carriage (used once)
Litter tray and plastic scoop (used for a short time) has scratches on outside only
Easi-Spot topical flea and worming treatment - 2 packs each pack contains 2 x monthly treatments expiry end 2025 (unopened and brand new) $43.50 per packet
White bucket with lid (never used) with small amount of Petzone cat litter crystal
Purr Meow Woof pet collar with bells (never used)
Pet bed (never used)
Petzone cat harness (never used)
Scratching post (never used)
Fab design & Embroidery Pattern book
'Sumptuous Settings' by Kaye Pyke
Beautiful embroidery for decoration and display
Coffee table book- so beautiful, each page has fab gold colourful plates.
Included patterns & materials lists for vintage/antique embroidery for … View moreFab design & Embroidery Pattern book
'Sumptuous Settings' by Kaye Pyke
Beautiful embroidery for decoration and display
Coffee table book- so beautiful, each page has fab gold colourful plates.
Included patterns & materials lists for vintage/antique embroidery for cushions, etc
Hardly used and pages show that, as they are not flat, but curved, when opened.
RRP- $135NZ- not available now
Rembrandt Hard Cover book by Jessica Hodge
Dust cover - good condition - a bit rustic in one corner, and shorter than the book and can see green book, top and bottom.
The book is as new inside- you can see the pages are not flat, as it has not been opened properly. It is not used, except … View moreRembrandt Hard Cover book by Jessica Hodge
Dust cover - good condition - a bit rustic in one corner, and shorter than the book and can see green book, top and bottom.
The book is as new inside- you can see the pages are not flat, as it has not been opened properly. It is not used, except for coffee table book.
** History - initial part is history with colour pictures
** See Contents, as shown
** Then colour plates of artworks
PICK UP - ONE TREE HILL
See my other listings
FRIDAY 16 & SATURDAY 17 MAY, 10AM - 2PM
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we’d love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse … View moreFRIDAY 16 & SATURDAY 17 MAY, 10AM - 2PM
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we’d love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities.
Plus, sign up to an independent apartment or townhouse before 30 June 2025 and you won’t pay your base weekly fee for a whole year.*
*Participating villages only, Ts & Cs apply.
Don't miss your last chance to save up to 35% on magazine subscriptions in our Mother’s Day Sale—perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a well-deserved treat for yourself!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep … View moreDon't miss your last chance to save up to 35% on magazine subscriptions in our Mother’s Day Sale—perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a well-deserved treat for yourself!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
Don't miss out – Mother’s Day is this weekend!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
Want to elevate your BBQ game when friends come around? look no further, Avon's Butchery has just the right sausage for you, winning national awards the last 25 years with over 18 flavours, this is the go to spot to elevate your backyard bbq.
In store or online Avon's Butchery aka … View moreWant to elevate your BBQ game when friends come around? look no further, Avon's Butchery has just the right sausage for you, winning national awards the last 25 years with over 18 flavours, this is the go to spot to elevate your backyard bbq.
In store or online Avon's Butchery aka 'The Better Butcher' has the range to simply impress.
246 Apirana Avenue, Glen Innes, Auckland.
📚✨ 2 Key Dates for Books, Bagels & Banter: Exclusive Preview & Opening Night! ✨📚
1. Exclusive Preview of Books Before the Fair Opens!
Be the first to explore the incredible selection of books at Books, Bagels & Banter! Join us for an exclusive preview evening, shop early, … View more📚✨ 2 Key Dates for Books, Bagels & Banter: Exclusive Preview & Opening Night! ✨📚
1. Exclusive Preview of Books Before the Fair Opens!
Be the first to explore the incredible selection of books at Books, Bagels & Banter! Join us for an exclusive preview evening, shop early, and find your next great read.
📅 Thursday 22 May
🕠 5:30pm – 7:00pm
📍 St Andrew’s Church Hall, 100 St Andrew’s Road, Epsom, Auckland
💰 Entry: $20
2. Opening Night with Kennedy Warne – A Night to Remember!
Don’t miss the opening night of Books, Bagels & Banter! On Friday 23 May, we’re delighted to welcome Kennedy Warne, acclaimed author and founder of NZ Geographic, who will share an inspiring keynote. Enjoy drinks, nibbles and great conversation!
📅 Friday 23 May
🕕 6:00pm
📍 St Andrew’s Church, 100 St Andrew’s Road, Epsom, Auckland
💰 Suggested Koha: $30
👉 Reserve your spot for the opening night at the church office or by booking online:
events.humanitix.com...
👉 Proceeds support the Auckland City Mission and other local community initiatives.
© Neighbourly 2025
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