The Ian Mackinlay Memorial Scholarship recipient: S. H. A. S. Peita

The Ian Mackinlay Memorial Scholarship is for a young man who has shown personal excellence in every field of endeavour, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or in cultural activities. Essential values shown should include honesty, loyalty and integrity as well as strength and determination in tackling challenges.

The recipient should have shown a responsibility to the wider community, showing a combination of individual excellence, commitment to others and pride in being part of a team, and the 2024 recipient is Senior Prefect S. H. A. S. Peita.

Storm Peita exemplifies the values of personal excellence, integrity, and commitment. As a Senior Prefect, he has consistently demonstrated outstanding character, achieving excellence across academic, cultural, and sporting domains throughout his five years at the School.

Storm’s 2023 Cambridge International Examination results produced a commendable 73% average across four Advanced Subsidiary subjects, and he achieved an NCEA Level 2 endorsement with Excellence in Te Reo Māori.

Culturally, Storm’s contributions have been significant. He has been a member of the Kapa Haka group since Form 3 and has been the leader of the group in both 2023 and 2024, demonstrating mana and a deep connection to his heritage. His commitment to the Headmaster’s Cultural Committee and the Tuakana-Teina Mentoring Programme further highlights his dedication to fostering a sense of community and mentorship within the School.

In 2023 and 2024, Storm won the Senior English – Korimako section at the Regional Ngā Manu Kōrero Speech Competition and qualified for the National competition.

Athletically, Storm has represented the School in the 1st XV Rugby team for two seasons, the Premier Touch team since 2022, and the Premier Volleyball team since 2023, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches alike for his leadership, versatility, and sportsmanship.

Storm’s achievements in 2023 and 2024 include receiving Performing Arts Colours for Ngā Manu Kōrero, the Kairangi Haka Award for excellence in Kapa Haka, the Poutaki Reo Award for outstanding Te Reo Māori, and in 2024, the Wilson Whineray Cup for Rugby.

Storm has been a loyal and humble contributor who has been shown personal excellence and pride in being a member of Auckland Grammar School. He is a deserving recipient of the Ian Mackinlay Memorial Scholarship for 2024.