A reunion of remarkable men
19 Nov 2025
A noted historian, a long-serving District Court judge, a philanthropist, a community stalwart, a conservationist, and members of several well-known College business and farming families recently returned to celebrate their 65 and 75 Years On Reunion.
They travelled from all around New Zealand and one Old Boy, Simon Beaven (5827), flew in from Melbourne to catch up with his classmates.
Among the Reunion group was historian and author Dr Jock Phillips ONZM (7087) who shared his school memories over lunch in the Dining Hall. An Academic Head of School and former New Zealand Chief Historian, Jock was among the many amazing Old Boys, along with former Judge Bill Unwin (5899), philanthropist Richard Blundell (6996), and conservationist and farmer David Belcher (6991).
College also welcomed back newly elected Rangiora-Ashley Community Board member Jim Gerard QSO (5847). Bringing extensive experience to his new community role, Jim, a former National MP, was voted onto the board at age 88.
Meanwhile, Simon first walked through the College gates in 1950. The Condell’s House Prefect would go on to carve out a busy career in agricultural engineering, including as a sales manager for Andrews & Beaven, founded by his grandfather. He moved into marketing, aviation, farming, and digital technology in Australia, and also spent 10 years living on his ketch.
All enjoyed a tour of the school, including the College Museum and Upper West, and the all-important Congers with the boys.
Reflecting on their reunion, the Old Boys praised the “congregational singing as a delightful surprise and a personal highlight”, adding that it was “one of life’s great days”.
