Katikati College Student Wins Tuatara Wananga Trophy sponsored by Toi Ohomai

Katikati College senior student, Hannah Gourlay (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāi Tahu), has been named as this year’s recipient of the Tuatara Wananga Trophy sponsored by Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology.

Hannah was presented the award - which recognises aspiration and all-round academic ability - at the Katikati College 2025 Senior Prize Giving on Tuesday, 9 December.

As well as being Head Girl at Katikati College, Hannah is heavily involved in the arts and kapa haka. She has been selected as a member of the SGCNZ Young Shakespeare Company for 2026 and will be representing Katikati College in London and on the Globe stage in July next year.

Katikati College Principal, Louise Buckley, says Hannah is a natural leader.

“She is reliable, organised, and driven. In every space she enters, she brings capability, humility, and a deep sense of service. Along with leading the kapa haka rōpū, she has directed a Shakespearean play in te reo Māori, and designed garments for Toi Wearable Arts. Her excellent time management and strong work ethic make her a quiet force behind the scenes and a commanding presence when she steps forward.”

Toi Ohomai Executive Director - Tiriti Partnerships and Māori Success, Huia Lloyd, was at the 2025 Katikati College Senior Prize Giving to present Hannah with the Tuatara Wananga Trophy.

“This award recognises a student whose leadership, creativity and service to kura and community reflect commitment and pride in Kaupapa Māori,” Huia said.

“Congratulations to Hannah on all her successes at Katikati College. We wish her all the best in London and beyond - her sense of direction is an inspiration to those around her. With enthusiasm and perseverance, we have no doubt she’ll quickly find her pathway in the world and make a positive impact.”

Four other Katikati College students were presented Toi Ohomai awards at the prize giving for their participation in the institute’s Secondary Tertiary Partnerships (STP) programme on campus in Tauranga throughout the academic year. They were: 
•    Bailey Scammell for Excellence in Engineering 
•    Emma Morton for Excellence in Hair, Retail and Beauty
•    Leo Cosmas for Excellence in Construction, and
•    Bryleigh Morris for Excellence in Hair, Retail and Beauty (absent). 

The STP Programme offers Bay of Plenty high school students (Years 11 - 13) the chance to gain real-world skills and NCEA credits by completing free, industry-relevant courses at Toi Ohomai while still at school. Students can work towards certificates across a range of sectors, including trades, technology, hospitality, hair and beauty, and more. Designed to bridge the gap between school and future employment, the STP Programme provides vocational education and training that helps create clear career pathways for rangatahi in the Bay of Plenty and South Waikato.