The new principal of one of the country's famous boarding schools, Te Aute College, says the news of his appointment has yet to sink in.
Shane Hiha. Photo: TE AUTE COLLEGE
Shane Hiha, deputy principal of William Colenso College in Napier, will take over the role in October.
Mr Hiha has for the past eight years headed William Colenso's Kotahitanga programme, which helps teachers to improve the learning and achievement of Maori students.
Mr Hiha says he's honoured at the appointment and excited about the challenge, though nervous because he's unsure what lies ahead.
The Hawke's Bay Maori boys' school is well-known for alumni such as Sir Apirana Ngata, Sir Howard Morrison and Sir Mason Durie.
Commissioner Elizabeth Ellis was brought in by the Ministry of Education in 2011 to deal with a range of problems at the school including a falling roll and education results.
Ms Ellis says she is confident Shane Hiha will do a great job because he has extensive experience in education and management. He is of Ngati Kahungunu descent and comes from a very well-respected Hawke's Bay family.
