Hon. Trevor Mallard
19 October 2001 Speech Notes

Embargoed until delivery

Opening of Boarding Hostel at Christchurch Boys High School

It is great to be here today at the official opening of your rebuilt boarding facility, Adams House.

Your school has a tradition of high academic performance and has consistently recorded a high retention rate.

In many ways, Adams House represents the spirit of Christchurch Boys High.

It plays a key leadership role within the school.

Its teachers and boarders are among the staunchest upholders of the school’s traditions and values.

The boys who make Adams House their home learn a valuable set of vital life-skills.

They gain a sense of camaraderie that stands them in good stead for the rest of their lives.

Importantly, Adams House also gives a lead to the school in the area of sporting achievement.

The manager of the hostel is the coach of the school’s 1st XV - a powerhouse team that recently finished the Crusader Competition at the top of the table, undefeated.

And of one the senior house masters coaches the tennis team, which are the current national boys secondary school champions.

Speaking for a moment as Minister of Sport, I am delighted to see how much importance so many of our schools continue to place on physical activity.

They understand the vital role it plays in boosting the physical, mental and emotional health of students.

It is often said that sport and recreation is at the very heart of New Zealand’s identity.

This Labour government is determined to promote high levels of involvement in all sorts of physical activities.

There are huge economic and social benefits to be gained from a fit and active community – and this starts as soon as children begin to walk.

And now to the reason why I’m here today – the opening of the rebuilt hostel complex.

Adams House is a place with a long and proud tradition.

The school still receives many more applications for the boarding hostel than there are places available.

The hostel has capacity for around 130 boarders, most of who come from rural South Island locations.

Two new dormitory blocks were part of the $3.4 million redevelopment programme.

The Crown stumped up with a $2.7 million contribution.

This major work included extending and upgrading one of the existing dormitory buildings.

A new services block was also constructed to provide kitchen, dining, lounge and laundry facilities together with staff accommodation upstairs.

The manager’s house was relocated on site to provide further staff accommodation and a new manager’s house was also built.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the work of all those many people involved in making today possible.

I understand that the parents of the boarders have been especially supportive.

An important aspect of your vision for Christchurch Boys High has now become a reality.

Best wishes to you all and thanks for the contribution you are making at the school and community level.

It is my pleasure to declare the new boarding facility officially open.

ENDS

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