BACKOn Friday 8 August, the Summit Academy community gathered in the Auditorium for the highly anticipated Awards Gala Dinner, a night dedicated to celebrating the remarkable achievements of chosen Honourees. The event brought together alumni, parents, students, staff, and friends for an evening of recognition and reminiscence.
The 2025 honourees, Chloe Gong, Connor Archbold, Dr Jane Alsweiler, Bryony Botha and our Rangi Hero, David Goldfinch, were lauded for their outstanding leadership, professional excellence, and positive societal impact. The Alumni Committee meticulously selected these individuals, reflecting the College’s commitment to fostering well-rounded and influential citizens.
Guests embraced the evening’s theme and the Auditorium itself was magically transformed into a ‘Winter Wonderland’, setting the stage for an evening of fine dining by award-winning Chef, Stephen Weeks and captivating performances by the College’s talented Performing Arts students.
A highlight of the night was hearing from the Honourees themselves, who shared candid insights into their Rangi experiences, the enduring influence of certain staff members, and the varied journeys they’ve embarked on since leaving the College.
We encourage everyone to view the newest additions to the Alumni Wall of Fame, proudly displayed in the Auditorium foyer, a testament to the inspiring legacy of Summit Academy Honourees.
Rangitoto College proudly presents:
Chloe Gong
A New York Times best-selling author, Chloe Gong is an accomplished novelist specializing in young adult fiction. Her debut novel, “These Violent Delights,” was published when she was just 21 and became a breakout success, showcasing her immense talent and creativity.
Connor Archbold
Connor Archbold is the co-founder and co-CEO of Tracksuit, a software company in New Zealand that helps brands track their performance. His background includes working as a corporate lawyer and launching Auckland’s first accelerator program, Lightning Lab.
Dr. Jane Alsweiler
Dr. Jane Alsweiler is a highly respected Professor and clinical neonatal paediatrician at the University of Auckland and Auckland City Hospital. Her work focuses on critical research into neonatal health, particularly glucose homeostasis and growth in newborns. Her dedication to improving the lives of infants makes her a truly deserving honouree, demonstrating the impact one can have in the scientific and medical community.
Bryony Botha
A celebrated New Zealand track and road cyclist, Bryony Botha has made a name for herself on the world stage. She has represented her country with distinction, winning a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in the team pursuit. Her accomplishments highlight her incredible athleticism and dedication, making her an inspirational role model for current and future students.
David Goldfinch
A New Zealand Police constable, David Goldfinch was named a “Rangi Hero” for his bravery after he was seriously injured in the line of duty on June 19, 2020. He was shot four times while responding to a traffic stop. His partner, Constable Matthew Hunt, was fatally shot. Goldfinch survived his injuries and later gave evidence that helped convict the man who shot them both. He was awarded the New Zealand Bravery Medal for his actions.
