Celebrating the past

SUMMER HOUSE

RESTORATION

To quote the NZ Heritage magazine’s Autumn 2019 issue: “A little sweetie, it’s an architectural confection, the Diocesan Summer House that sits in amongst the large trees at the heart of the School. She continues to be a well-used and muchloved feature by everyone who comes through the gates.”

Left to right: Margaret Ireland, Mary Tietjens, Susie Williams, Sue Williams, Elizabeth Wilson, Mary Stephenson, Sue Willis, Bryan Bartley, Sue Letcher, Janet Smith, Fay Moorhead, Jenevere Foreman, Betty Pritchard, Jennifer Radford, Joan de Latour, Beverley White, Jane Williams, Catherine Spencer.

Sue Williams, Mary Tietjens, Susie Williams

Late last year we realised she was looking rather worn and battered. As one of the few remaining 19th Century summer houses in Auckland, she had seen her fair share of summers. We wanted to ensure the longevity of this iconic gem.

We received overwhelming support and generosity from 107 alumnae and their families to raise the funds needed to restore her. Thank you!

The summer house, more than 125 years old, has now been beautifully restored by expert craftsmen and is again looking resplendent. She is a treasured part of Dio’s history and fondly remembered by decades of past Dio girls. So, our heartfelt thanks to all who supported the Summer House Restoration project; together we have brought her back to life.

In May we celebrated together with the donors. After weeks of beautiful weather, the morning of the Summer House Garden Party dawned rather gloomy, so plan B came into play and the celebrations moved indoors to School House Dining Room. Despite the weather, spirits were high and everyone was delighted to be back at the School and enjoying time together and celebrating the restoration of this architectural confection.

We are looking forward to celebrating this milestone event, the centenary of the Chapel of Our Glorified Lord, on Saturday 6 August. Celebrations will commence at 4pm with a chapel service, followed by cocktails in the Arts Centre foyer.

If you are interested in attending this special event, please rsvp to Development Manager Kate Eatts keatts@diocesan.school.nz.

We look forward to welcoming you and celebrating this special occasion.

Bryan Bartley, Jenny Radford and Betty Prichard

Chapel’s 100year celebration

Saturday 6 August 2022 | 4 - 6:30pm Diocesan School for Girls