Anare Koliavu

A couple of days before College resumed for the year, we found Anare Koliavu showing his whānau around the school grounds and took the opportunity for a quick catch up.

Anare calls Melbourne home these days, having lived in Australia for 15 years. He left Aotearoa to pursue rugby opportunities and had a stint with the Western Force. He has remained active in rugby circles ever since, including time helping coach the Australian U18 7’s side. A trained accountant, Anare now works in the youth sector supporting young people experiencing challenges in their lives. He and his wife have three children, the youngest now back in Aotearoa at boarding school.

He remembers his time at the school fondly and reminisced that three years wasn’t long enough here, having come to the College in fifth form. ‘I must say that I gave the teachers the run around at times,’ he laughed as he looked around for the old detention room. ‘I didn’t reach the potential I had back then and wish I had given more to the school when I was here.’

Anare was stoked to connect with some former teachers during his visit, especially (now) Deputy Rector Wayne Mills. He also remembers 'Miss' Lynley Reid, his English teacher, fondly and credits her for helping build a love of reading.

On summarising his senior school years, Anare says it was the traditions and values he remembers the most. He now appreciates the emphasis on education and the values that were instilled in him while at St Patrick’s. ‘Gosh we had to wear that uniform well. Socks up, shirts tucked in – it was a daily reminder, but it has stuck with me.’

It was fantastic to connect with Anare. We warmly welcome all Old Boys and former staff back the school.