INTRODUCING EMMA COWAN (Matson) – PRESIDING MEMBER
Kia ora koutou
I live locally with my husband Nick and our son Alexander (Xandy) attends Paraparaumu School.
I am a senior lawyer and people leader at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand leading a team of lawyers providing regulatory and commercial advice. I have extensive experience in public law and general corporate and commercial law, including governance, privacy, construction law, property law, digital/IT, trade law, commercial contracting, risk management, legal compliance and internal investigations.
Paraparaumu School is a beautiful community, and it is a privilege to serve on the Board as Presiding Member.
Email: Presidingmember@paraparaumu.school.nz
DELWYN CLEMENT – PARENT REPRESENTATIVE
I joined the Board in March 2023 first as Presiding Member and later as a Parent Representative. It has been a privilege and honor to be a part of the School Board and to work with Steven, the Schools staff and teachers and the Board.
I have two girls (Year 5 and Year 6) who both joined Paraparaumu School in 2022. As a family we have enjoyed becoming part of the Paraparaumu School community and participating school events.
My professional background is in the public sector with experience in governance, strategy, stakeholder engagement, child protection and risk management. I look forward continuing to work with Steven and the Board to build on the work we have done over the past two years.
INTRODUCING SAM PRITCHARD – PARENT REPRESENTATIVE
I was born in Otaki and am now living in Paraparaumu with wife Alice and four children aged 5 – 11, all attending Paraparaumu School.
I am a local business owner working in construction, property, Iwi housing and land development sectors locally and throughout the country. I love being outdoors with my family and Alice and I are currently busy with a number of winter sports with the family including rugby, soccer and hockey.
INTRODUCING NEIL PHIPPS – PARENT REPRESENTATIVE
Kia ora koutou.
I live locally with my partner Donna and have been a board member at Paraparaumu School since 2023. Our older boy has recently moved onto college while our youngest is in Year 7.
There is so much to admire about our school, from its values led culture to the commitment of the staff who work tirelessly to provide the best opportunities for our kids to learn, play and grow.
I am a finance specialist and have worked in the Public Service for the last 10 years, before which I held varying senior manager and director roles in the assurance and advisory areas of PwC.
I am currently the Chief Financial Officer at Ara Poutama Aotearoa. I consider it a great privilege to serve on the Board and am highly motivated to play whatever part I can in our schools continued success.
INTRODUCING EMMA COLLINS – STAFF REPRESENTATIVE
My name is Emma Collins and I’m excited to be the new staff representative on the board of trustees. This is my 13th year teaching (4th year at Paraparaumu School) and I currently teach years 7 and 8.
I grew up in Stokes Valley, Lower Hutt and taught in Wainuiomata and Titahi Bay for a number of years.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, walking my dog, reading, listening to true crime podcasts and going to the gym.
I am looking forward to joining the board of trustees as I feel like I have strong communication skills and an enthusiasm for education.
INTRODUCING Aston Mitchell – PARENT REPRESENTATIVE
I’m a proud parent to three children, with my eldest currently attending Paraparaumu School since 2024. Living locally, I’m deeply invested in the wellbeing and success of our school community.
Professionally, I work as a Senior Policy Advisor, bringing years of experience in strategic planning, governance-thinking, and public engagement.
I’m committed to supporting a positive, inclusive environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive. It’s a privilege to serve on the board and contribute to shaping the future of our school.
INTRODUCING KOROWAI TE HUIA – PARENT REPRESENTATIVE
Kia ora, I’m Korowai Te Huia. I bring experience in operations management, health and safety, training, and social media marketing. I currently serve as Chair of the Whatonga Waka Ama Board, where I’ve been involved in building a strong community organisation that values teamwork and inclusion.
I’m passionate about creating positive outcomes for all tamariki and whānau at Paraparaumu School. I take a practical, people-focused approach to problem solving and decision making, and I value open communication and collaboration. Guided by a te ao Māori perspective, I want to help strengthen connections across the school community and support a learning environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and able to thrive.