Rotorua Boys’ High School’s old boys’ association has launched a fund ahead of the school’s centenary, a pot of money it says will benefit students for years to come.

The newly established old boys’ group put together the fund in the name of former principal of 33 years, Chris Grinter. It hopes to raise at least $1 million.

Managed by the Geyser Community Foundation, the Chris Grinter Scholarship Fund will earn interest that will provide thousands of dollars for the benefit of students at the school each year.

Raukura Old Boys’ Association inaugural chairman Benji Crossley said the fund would provide meaningful opportunities for Raukura [Rotorua Boys’ High School] students while formally reconnecting generations of old boys for the first time in the school’s history.

He said Raukura had long stood apart as one of the few schools without an active old boys’ network and the timing was right to change that.

“With the 100th jubilee approaching in 2027, a group of Old Boys recognised the opportunity to reconnect and build something meaningful.

“Alongside establishing the association, we wanted to create a way for Old Boys to give back in a way that lasts.”

He said that Lockwood Homes owner and old boy Jo La Grouw had kickstarted the fund with an undisclosed amount.

Crossley said La Grouw believed in what Rotorua Boys’ High School stood for and now the call was going out to the wider old boys’ network who might like to contribute as well.

The goal is bold - with hopes it could reach $1m or beyond by the centenary.

 
Rotorua Boys' High School Old Boys. Photo / Supplied

Crossley said he believed it was within reach.

“The calibre and diversity of our Old Boys is exceptional. This fund will open doors for Raukura students, helping them access opportunities and experiences that shape who they become.”

Crossley said a $1m fund in the first year would see $31,500 available for distribution in that year. The figure would grow every year to the point that after 10 years, a $1 million pot would see $412,000 distributed.

“We would obviously hope to have more than a million in the fund and believe that given the calibre of Old Boys and their success across numerous fields, we can eclipse that million-dollar figure and build something transformative for the students of Raukura.”

He said a team of old boys representing the association and a school representative would consider applications each year.

It was his wish the fund would be used for scholarships and support. Meaning the money could be used for everything from helping students academically or in their sporting and cultural endeavours to helping buy shoes for someone who was not coming to school because they could not afford footwear.

Chris Grinter stood down in 2024 after 33 years as Rotorua Boys' High School principal. Photo / Andrew Warner

Grinter said it was a “real honour” to have the fund named after him.

“I care deeply about the future of the school, and this initiative reflects the strength of the Raukura community. It’s inspiring to see Old Boys stepping forward to support the next generation.”

Rotorua Boys' High School head boy Ariki Rogers. Photo / Supplied

Current head boy Te Ariki Rogers welcomed the initiative.

“We’re incredibly proud of our kura, and it’s powerful to know those who came before us feel the same way. This support will make a real difference, and it’s exciting to connect with the journeys of former students.”

Kelly Makiha is a senior journalist who has reported for the Rotorua Daily Post for more than 25 years, covering mainly police, court, human interest and social issues.