Congratulations Gary on 20 Incredible Years at Rutherford College

On Monday 17 August Rutherford College came together for a very special assembly to celebrate an incredible milestone — 20 years of Principal Gary Moore at Rutherford College. 

The surprise celebration had been 10 months in the planning, with staff and students working behind the scenes to create an unforgettable event for Mr Moore. 

As Gary entered the hall, he was warmly pōwhiried by Te Rōpū Kapa Haka o te Kōtuku, before Papa Fred delivered a heartfelt mihimihi. The school then presented Gary with three beautiful and significant taonga — a korowai, a taonga and a tokotoko — as a lasting acknowledgement of his 20 years of leadership and service to Rutherford College. 

The highlight of the celebration was a special “This Is Your Life – Gary Moore” segment, hosted by students Finn Wilson and Nico Curran. One by one, friends and colleagues from throughout Gary’s working career, from his earliest days through to more recent years, were brought onto the stage. Each guest shared stories, memories and personal reflections about their relationship with Gary, creating plenty of laughter, emotion and a few surprises along the way. 

The celebration concluded in a truly powerful way, with Te Rōpū Kapa Haka o te Kōtuku performing a haka for Gary — a fitting and moving tribute to two decades of dedication to Rutherford College. It was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to celebrate not only 20 years of Gary’s leadership, but also the many relationships, memories and contributions that have shaped his journey at Rutherford.

Congratulations Gary on 20 incredible years at Rutherford College.