Aquinas College celebrated another exciting building milestone this week with the official opening and blessing of our redeveloped Family/Whānau Block, now home to our Technology and Religious Education faculties.
The commissioning and blessing took place on Monday, October 6, the first day of Term 4. Father Arnold led the Rite of Blessing, while Kaumātua Turi Ngātai offered a warm mihi and welcome. Principal Matthew Dalton then addressed the gathering of Board members, staff, students, and representatives from the companies involved in the project.
“It’s incredible to see what has been achieved within the same footprint,” he said. Through smart design and collaboration, we’ve created something truly exceptional for our students and staff.
“Now home to Technology and Religious Education, this block will support both practical learning and spiritual formation — a place where students can build with their hands and grow in faith and purpose.”
Guests were invited to tour the beautifully transformed space, which now includes:
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A state-of-the-art Hard Technology area (replacing the former music rooms), stretching the length of four classrooms.
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Four new classrooms, a large shared internal area, and breakout rooms for the Religious Education Department. The RE hallway features striking art of various saints designed and drawn by Aquinas students.
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Two newly refurbished kitchens supporting Food Technology programmes.
The renovation took just over a term to complete and marks a significant step forward in modernising our campus facilities. Aquinas extends heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to this impressive redevelopment:
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Rubix – with special thanks to Project Manager Edward Fraser and Vance McGregor
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Ignite Architects – particularly designers Jesse Steer
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Alaska Construction Interiors – including Harry Osborne and Jacques Terblanche
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New Era – for their ongoing IT and infrastructure support
This new learning environment provides an inspiring, functional space that will serve Aquinas students for many years to come.
Minor improvements to the block’s DVC and Digital Technology rooms will be completed soon.
