Kia Ora everyone,
In 2023 I have been very excited to start a new career for myself at Papanui High School. After I finished my education in NZ I was lucky enough to go and teach English in Korea. I thought I would only stay there for one year but in the end I stayed there for 6 years. After that I went to live in Japan for a year and stayed with my wife's family, it was like a homestay for grown ups!
Since returning from overseas I have been working with international students at an English language school and also the University of Canterbury here in Christchurch. I love to travel to countries around the world and one of my favourite holidays was in Vietnam with my family about 4 years ago. I also enjoy playing tennis and golf.
James Waghorn
Director, International Students
Kia ora koutou (Hello everyone). I have returned to Papanui High School after living and working in Australia and Auckland. I was the Administrator in our Student Support office for five years, so being back at Papanui High feels like coming home!
I found moving to Melbourne exciting but challenging, as I had to establish myself in a country where I did not know many people, and everything was very different from what I was used to in New Zealand. I look back on my time in Melbourne as a great experience and an adventure, I have many good friends there now and we keep in touch. I enjoy helping people and I am looking forward to working in the International Department team, to help our students achieve their goals.
I like being outside, working in my garden, renovating our home, painting and craft work. I enjoy walking local tracks and trails in the Waimakariri and Otautahi (Christchurch) area.
Yolanda Busson
Assistant Director, International Students
Donna joined our international team in July 2023 and has enjoyed working with international students. She has worked closely with students in school environments, and lived in Canada for a few years. Donna lives on a rural property just north of Christchurch, where she enjoys spending time with her family and looking after their animals.
Working closely with our Homestay families and our students, Donna is committed to providing the highest level of support and care to both. With many years of experience in administration and human resources, balanced with her local knowledge and connections, we know that Donna will be looking for opportunities to connect our Homestay community more often.
Donna's children attended Papanui High School, as did Donna!
Donna Ashton
International Homestay Coordinator
Kia ora koutou, I am the youngest of 6 children born to a 4th generation farming family in Westport on the West Coast of the South Island. I have taught at Papanui High School since 1984 undertaking many different roles, Head of Outdoor Education, Year 9 - 13 Dean, Continuing Education Coordinator, Head of Department Technology and Teacher responsible for Snow Sports. I am married with two children. Our family have been hosting international students from Europe and Asia for the past 25 years and remain in contact with many who have become personal friends and I have travelled extensively overseas.
My passion is nature and the outdoors, and I look forward to welcoming new international students to our school and supporting them to enjoy and experience Snow Sports during their stay in New Zealand.
Barry Dalkie
Hard Materials Teacher, Snow Sports Manager
School Address and Contact details
Papanui High school 30 Langdons Rd
Papanui Christchurch 8053
Direct line during working hours 8:30am - 4:30pm (+64) 3 352 0705
Email: [email protected]
Emergency: (+64) 21 548 433
