School Board

Jane Rush - Principal 

I grew up in Mid-Canterbury and began school at St Joseph’s in Ashburton before moving to the Taiko Valley near Timaru, where I attended St Joseph’s in Pleasant Point. I started high school at St Kevin’s College in Oamaru and later moved to Roncalli College in Timaru, experiences that grounded me in the rural heart of the South Island.

I’m married to Rob, and together we have three amazing children who are now finding their own paths as young adults. As educationalists, Rob and I have had the privilege of travelling across New Zealand with our family, immersing ourselves in different communities and creating lasting stories for our children along the way. My teaching journey has taken me to a wide range of educational settings, from small country schools to large urban classrooms, spanning from the central North Island to the southern beauty of Te Anau. Enriching my perspective as both a teacher and a parent. These diverse experiences continue to shape my teaching practice and my commitment to nurturing strong, connected learners.

Father Martin Flannery

“I'm originally from Poolburn in the Ida Valley and was one of six children.  My Mother now lives in Alexandra and I have 11 nieces and nephews - the youngest currently finishing high school in Invercargill.

I attended Poolburn School then St Kevin’s College in Oamaru, before farming for five years in the Ida Valley and representing Otago for rugby and Central Otago in cricket.  From there, I went on to work and play rugby in the Counties region (I still love sport today, and play golf in my spare time).

After travelling overseas for two years,  I started my studies for the Priesthood at Holy Cross College, Mosgiel in 1987, and was ordained in Alexandra in 1992.  Since then I’ve worked in parishes and schools in Dunedin, Oamaru, Queenstown and Invercargill before coming to Cromwell/Wanaka in April 2016.

I am a Bishop’s Representative on the Board, with my role to support the Special Character and to support and encourage students, teachers and families in whatever way I can.”

Jane Hamilton

“I am a newly appointed Proprietor Representative and I look forward to liaising between our supportive Catholic parish and our great school.

Born and raised in Invercargill, I gained an Honours Degree in History before returning to Invercargill to teach. I came to Wanaka in July 1989 to take up the position of Assistant Principal at Mount Aspiring College. 

I met and married Alister, a builder, here in Wanaka. Our son Andrew grew up in this community and is now doing his building apprenticeship in Dunedin, having previously tried teaching.

Retired now, I love biking (on my e-bike!), walking, playing bridge and boating.  At a stage in my life with more time available, I am really pleased to continue my involvement with education in supporting the students and staff of Holy Family.”

Colette Kelly

“I was appointed as a Proprietor Representative in 2009 and I'm married to Allan. We have lived in Wanaka for over 10 years having come from Brisbane but with strong Southern roots.

We have 5 adult 'children', totaling 22 all together with their respective partners and children. We are delighted and privileged to also have two grandchildren, Romy and Carter, attending Holy Family School.

I worked in the social services area for over 30 years and have a degree in Psychology. I was on the Board and chairperson of Verdon College in Invercargill.

As a Board member I am committed to ensuring we continue to provide a safe, challenging and faith-filled environment for our Holy Family community. The continuing growth of our school means that strategic planning is a high priority also.

Family interests, following the share market, gardening and spending time on the golf course seem to keep me otherwise occupied!”

Nathan Simon

Originally born and bred in Dunedin, I attended Kavanagh College prior to completing a building apprenticeship. After traveling around the UK and Europe I returned home and moved to Wanaka in 2002.

I met my wife Shelley in Wanaka and we were married in 2011. We now have two girls at Holy Family - Elodie (10) & Imogen (7).

Away from work I enjoy my family time, traveling, boating and golf, plus watching local rugby. I've had a lot to do with the Upper Clutha rugby club over the years, formatively as a player and have now been on the committee for over 10 years, my current position being President. 

Only recently appointed to the Holy Family School board, I’m looking forward to understanding more about the working dynamics of the school and helping out where I can.

Melissa Petas - Presiding Member

Born in mighty Crusader Country in the small town of Springston, I attended St Margaret's College in Christchurch. On completion of this, I had the travel bug and spent a year overseas. On my return I completed my studies at University of Canterbury where I gained a major in Commerce.

Meeting my partner Mike in Christchurch, we were blessed to have Maisie who now attends Holy Family School and have since been blessed again with Walter who will also attend Holy Family.

With a change of scenery needed we made the decision to move back to Mike's hometown of Invercargill whilst having dreams of moving to Wanaka full time. We have made the leap a year ago and it has easily been the best decision we have made. We all enjoy everything the town has to offer with its nature walks, bike parks and lake activities.

I have wanted to donate my time and efforts to the school and community and I see this board role as an excellent opportunity to do so. I am excited about adding value where I can and am enthused to contribute to the success that have come before me.