This much-loved tradition brought together alumnae, staff, students and friends of the school to honour the generations who have shaped Diocesan School for Girls and to celebrate the connections that continue to thrive across the decades.
The day began with the Diocesan Alumnae Association (DAA) Annual General Meeting in the Dining Room at School House, followed by the Senior Old Girls’ High Tea in the School Hall. It was a beautiful sight to see alumnae aged 70 and over catching up, laughing, and swapping stories from their school days. The sense of belonging and shared pride in Dio’s legacy was evident in every conversation.
Student-led campus tours gave visitors a chance to see how Dio has evolved. Guided by our confident Year 10 students, guests explored the campus and saw first-hand how heritage and innovation sit side by side – from restored buildings rich in history to modern spaces designed for the next generation of learners.
A highlight of the day was being back inside our beautifully restored Chapel of Our Glorified Lord and St Barnabas for a heartfelt Founders’ Day Service led by Rev Sandy Robertson. For many, it was their first time returning since the restoration, and the emotion was palpable. The service was a moment of reflection, gratitude and connection – honouring those who came before us and celebrating those who continue to serve today. A special thank you to the DAA for the stunning flowers that adorned the Chapel, adding such warmth and grace to the service.
It was wonderful to welcome our decade-on reunion groups from 1975, 1985, 1995, 2005 and 2015. Each celebrated their milestone year with pride and plenty of laughter, but the 2005 group’s story stood out. Returning with some of their babies in tow, they also shared a deeply personal moment and a lot of laughter later that evening when they opened the letters, which they had written to themselves 20 years earlier on their last day at Dio, and read them aloud – a moving reminder of friendship, growth and the enduring bond of Dio girls.
The day closed with cocktails in the Performing Arts Centre, hosted by the Dio Alumnae Association, before many continued their celebrations at reunion gatherings around Auckland. Our 1975 group also enjoyed a special reunion lunch the following day, marking 50 years since graduation – a golden milestone indeed.
A heartfelt thank you to all Dio staff, students and alumnae who worked together to make Founders’ Day 2025 such a success. Your time, creativity and care brought our community together in the truest Dio spirit.
Ut Serviamus.
