Year 12 student Mitchell Smith elected as 2026 Student Representative on the Orewa College School Board after winning by over 100 votes.

Year 12 ākonga chosen by peers after standout leadership year

Year 12 student Mitchell Smith has been elected as the 2026 Student Representative on the Orewa College School Board, following a decisive student vote in early October.

Mitchell, who served on the Student Council earlier this year, was strongly encouraged by his teachers to stand for the position. His campaign focused on inclusion, student voice, and overcoming personal challenges. Mitchell's message clearly resonated as he won by more than 100 votes.

“I look forward to growing as a leader and getting the student voice across to the board,” said Mitchell.

Alongside this new governance role, Mitchell has also been named Head Manukura for 2026. His leadership journey has been shaped by personal experiences navigating learning differences and the support of the Learning Support Centre, which he credits as key to his success at school.

A passionate rugby player, Mitchell is known for his strong sense of teamwork and for backing others on and off the field. Now, he’s keen to bring that same energy into the boardroom.