A Hillcrest connection in the most recent Queens Birthday Honours List, William (Bill) Michael Anderson was awarded the Queen Service Medal. Bill was on the Board of Governors 1985-1987 / Komiti Maori from 1985 – 1987.
During this time, John Leitch was the Principal. Aroha Yates was the Chair of the Maori Komiti. Daughter Cherie Kerrison (Anderson) attended from 1985 – 1989. She was the first student representative on the board of trustees.
The picture shows the Tukutuku panel that still hangs inside the school’s Auditorium known as Kia Mau Mahara, which was named by Ngati Haua and kaumatua Rubal Rapana to add a Maori dimension to the building. Bill asked his parents – Canon Rua Anderson and Eva Maraki Anderson, Aunty Digger Te Kanawa and members of the Maori komiti to develop a Tukutuku panel. Canon Rua carved the frame from kauri for the panel.
The design denotes the cultural and educational demands on the students and teachers. Furthermore, the poutama and pouhine depicts the diversity of the school and striving for excellence. The three baskets of knowledge, kete tuauri, tuatea and aronui are prominent in the white and darker patterns that cover the centre of the panel.
