Visit of Otaki Scholars

Background to the Visit

On 10th March 1917 the New Zealand Shipping Company’s SS Ōtaki, commanded by Captain Archibald Bisset Smith, engaged in battle with German raider Moewe.  During the action the Ōtaki scored several direct hits on the Moewe, causing considerable damage and starting a fire which lasted for three days.  The SS Ōtaki herself was, however, irreparably damaged and Captain Bisset Smith gave orders for the boats to be lowered to allow the crew to be rescued.  He himself remained on board and went down with his ship at the end of what was described as “a duel as gallant as naval history can relate”.  Captain Smith was later awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery.

In 1937 Captain Bisset Smith’s family presented the Ōtaki Shield to Robert Gordon’s College in Aberdeen, Scotland where he had attended as a boy.  This led to the setting up of an annual scholarship in memory of the ­Captain whereby the Head Boy of Robert Gordon’s College spends several weeks touring New Zealand.  Firm links have been established between Robert Gordon’s and Ōtaki Colleges, with Ōtaki becoming the first port of call for the Ōtaki Scholar.

On July 15 the College welcomed two Otaki Scholars from Robert Gordon’s College in Scotland.  The boys, Harrry Wood and Michael Onyemeziem, were the Head Boys of RGC in 2024 and 2025 respectively.  Harry was unable to travel to New Zealand in 2024 due to other commitments, so joined Michael on his 2025 tour.  A pōwhiri was held for Harry and Michael at Raukawa marae on Wednesday 16 July to welcome them to New Zealand and to Ōtaki.  Following the pōwhiri they were taken on a tour of the Ōtaki Museum to view an extremely informative exhibition about the town since 1840.  The College would like to sincerely thank David Ledson and the Museum Trustees for setting up this opportunity.  The Scholars then continued with our Ngā Ringa Whero Heads of School Team on a tour of Ōtaki guided by Pataka Moore.  All the students found this extremely informative as Pataka was able to share many stories that developed their sense of history around our unique town.  A huge thank you to Pataka for again giving up his time willingly to undertake this on behalf of the College. 

Harry and Michael then went on to enjoy a wonderful two days on Kāpiti Island, accompanied by three of our Ngā Ringa Whero Team.  The hike to the top of Tuteremoana, which is the highest vantage point on the Island, and the evening kiwi spotting experience were highlights of the trip.  The College would like to sincerely thank Kāpiti Island Nature Tours for sponsoring and hosting the students.