On Monday, some of our incredible Year 13 Tourism Academy students took their learning beyond the classroom and all the way to the Zoo! 

They proudly presented their Eco-Tourism Projects, showcasing a powerful mix of sustainability, creativity, and community spirit. Check out the amazing initiatives they’ve been involved in:

- Built sustainable planter boxes with Taupaki School- Collected and recycled dental waste- Taught tamariki at Royal Road Primary about native birds and made bird feeders- Created an underwater display to highlight the impact of ocean plastic- Planted Mānuka trees near the Massey High School beehives- Collected stationery for the Back to School Project- Helped maintain gardens at a local rest home- Planted veggie seedlings with Colwill Primary students- Ran a fun recycling race and education session with Waitākere SDA Primary!

The range and quality of these projects were absolutely inspiring. Our students have gained hands-on experience in sustainability, teamwork, and making a difference in their community. We couldn’t be prouder! These projects are run as part of an Eco-Tourism course led by the International Travel College.

Growing Together: A Collaboration Rooted in Sustainability Three of our incredible Year 13 Tourism Academy students – Megan, Taylim, and Brooke – have been working on Eco-Tourism project that’s not just hands-on, but heart-filled too.

As part of a meaningful partnership with Taupaki Primary School’s Student Council, these senior students have co-designed and delivered two beautiful planter boxes for the school’s soon-to-be-developed outdoor learning space. The planters don’t just look good – they incorporate sustainability principles that will support the primary students' learning for years to come.

From selecting materials to planning the layout and working alongside younger students, Megan, Taylim, and Brooke have shown leadership, creativity, and a genuine commitment to community engagement. Their work encourages younger learners to think about how we care for our environment through sustainable gardening.

A huge shout-out also goes to our talented Building Academy tutors, who brought the designs to life by constructing and painting the planters using timber off-cuts. Not only did this reduce waste, but it made the entire project a brilliant example of cross-academy collaboration.

We think you’ll agree – the final result is absolutely spectacular! 

This is what authentic learning and giving back looks like. Well done to everyone involved! 

Wednesday’s trip to the Chelsea Sugar Factory was again another success. Our students represented Massey High School with pride, displaying exemplary behaviour throughout the day. We received outstanding feedback from the Chelsea staff, who were thoroughly impressed with the group's conduct and engagement.

The day began with an informative and engaging tour around and inside the factory. One of the highlights for many students was entering the iconic Sugar Mountain. The overwhelming smells in certain areas gave students a newfound appreciation for the refining process, especially for white sugar.

Students then participated in a baking class where they each created a pack of delicious yoyo cookies, much like melting moments, filled with a tangy passionfruit cream. This practical session was a definite favourite.

To end the day, students explored the Interactive Zone. For anyone who hasn't visited yet, we highly recommend the Chelsea Sugar Factory tour for it’s a unique, educational, and delicious experience!

Felicity Palmer Hospitality Tutor.

In a delightful evening of fine dining and hospitality, Level 2 and 3 hospitality students took centre stage at a special Rotary dinner, serving up an exquisite meal to 30 guests. The event was a testament to their dedication, skill, and passion for the culinary arts, leaving guests thoroughly impressed.

The evening began with a selection of bread and dips, providing a warm and inviting start to the dining experience. Guests enjoyed freshly baked bread paired with a variety of flavourful dips, setting the tone for the carefully crafted menu to follow.

For the main course, the students showcased their mastery in cooking and presentation with crispy pork belly, elegantly paired with a rich and flavourful chilli caramel sauce. The combination of tender, perfectly cooked pork and the sweet heat of the sauce highlighted the students’ ability to balance flavours and textures.

To conclude the evening on a sweet note, a baked cheesecake was served with a raspberry coulis, offering a creamy, indulgent finish. The dessert was a testament to the students’ attention to detail, as each slice was perfectly set and beautifully presented.

Beyond the impressive menu, the dinner was a valuable opportunity for hospitality students to gain hands-on experience in food preparation, service, and customer engagement. Working in a real event setting, they demonstrated teamwork, professionalism, and a keen understanding of hospitality standards.

The Rotary dinner not only celebrated great food but also provided an excellent platform for these students to shine, showing their commitment to delivering a high-quality dining experience. Their skills and hard work were appreciated by all, making the event a resounding success.

Fifteen students were involved in the evening, and our thanks also go to their Hospitality tutors for their guidance. As a result of the success of the night, we have been invited to be part of an event at The Trusts Stadium later this year involving 250 guests. We look forward to such an exciting event as well.