Loving the sun in the Hutt Valley
Mike Hutchins started off working in the Avalon TV studios straight out of school but soon realised his future lay elsewhere. He went to university and on to teaching at Naenae College in the early 1980s. After stints as HOD Mathematics in Queenstown, Taupo and Rarotonga he arrived at HIBS as the HOD Mathematics in 1998. After a period as Assistant Principal, he was appointed Principal of the school in 2014.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PUBLIC SPACE?
The Wellington Botanical Gardens. I amfortunate enough to live within walking distance, so it is a regular source of exercise. The cafe is a great place for brunch or a coffee, in particular if the roses are out. My wife and I always catch a few concerts when the summer programme is on and it is a place where locals and visitors of all ages converge.
IF YOU WERE A PUPIL AT YOUR SCHOOL TODAY WHAT WOULD YOU LOVE ABOUT IT?
The opportunities, the relationships and the sense of belonging. Modern schools offer so much to young people and HIBS is certainly no exception. The physical environment and resources provide an opportunity for every individual to thrive and excel, irrespective of their core interests. More importantly, the boys relate so well with their peers, between year levels and with their teachers, that it makes the school a very pleasant place to be. I was reminded recently of one of my predecessors, Harvey ReesThomas, regularly telling the boys that, as they come in through the school gates, they should say to themselves; ‘‘This is my school and I’m here to make a difference’’.
WHAT HAS BEEN A HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TEACHING CAREER?
I taught in Rarotonga in 1996-97. It was a time of financial hardship in the Cook Islands and resources were scarce. Our whole family felt welcome within the community and we returned to New Zealand with many fond memories. I have since returned with International Service groups from HIBS, donating a considerable amount of gear to the schools we visited.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I spend most Saturdays and some evenings watching HIBS sports teams (a very pleasant part of the job) and there are quite a few meetings after school as well. So I always keep one day each week to spend quality time with my wife, friends and family. I enjoy walking, gardening, fishing, drinking coffee and wine, stopping in the cafes around Oriental Bay and solving the problems of the world.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE HUTT VALLEY?
I lived in the Hutt Valley for 29 of my first 30years and have taught at HIBS for the last 19. I love the open spaces and sunshine in the Valley. Walking or cycling along the Hutt River never loses its novelty. There are great sports and arts facilities and plenty of green spaces. It is a fantastic place to bring up kids.