Orewa College celebrates ākonga sporting achievements at the 2025 Sporting Excellence Awards, recognising talent, teamwork and leadership.

Honouring the athletes, leaders and supporters who make sport thrive at Orewa College

The 2025 Sporting Excellence Awards evening was a spectacular celebration of achievement, highlighting the talent of Orewa College athletes. This year saw more students than ever earning representative honours, from regional to national and even world championship levels. The night recognised not just podium finishes, but the commitment, resilience, and leadership that define an Orewa College athlete.

Sports Person of the Year went to Anika Pihema, whose outstanding performances in netball and surf lifesaving earned her selection to the New Zealand Secondary Schools Netball team for a second consecutive year.

The Highest Achiever Award was presented to Levi Gear, a professionally signed cyclist competing in both road racing and mountain biking. A National and Oceania champion, Levi’s future is exceptionally bright, and we cannot wait to see where his talent takes him next.

Junior Sports Person of the Year honours went to Rebecca Zhang (Badminton) and Levi Kioa (Rugby and Basketball), both celebrated for their exceptional sportsmanship. Year 7 and 8 Sports Person of the Year were Summer Torbet (Sailing) and Hunter Tipene (Orienteering, Hockey, and Football), showcasing the exciting depth of young talent emerging through the College Pathways Programme.

A moving moment of the evening was the inaugural Anne Goulter Heart of a Champion Award, presented to Connor Dalling, who demonstrated remarkable perseverance and commitment in the face of adversity.

Contribution to Sport Awards recognised Harlem Hope-Jensen, Mikah Gemmell, and Ava Ashley for their incredible efforts to support and elevate sport across multiple teams.

The evening also celebrated those working tirelessly behind the scenes. Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Vanessa Ashley, Student Official of the Year to Hollie Johnson, and Student Coaches of the Year to Alex Colborn and Emily Healy, all of whom embody the spirit and leadership that sustain our sporting community.

The 2025 Sporting Excellence Awards reminded us that sport at Orewa College is about more than competition; it is about growth, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field.

View the complete photo collection and recognise this year’s outstanding athletes.

Photo credit: Ralph Zamora, Megan Postlewaight