With our latest cohort of Prefects for 2025/26 announced at the end of Term 3, and now in their first few weeks in the ‘job’, we caught up with Head Prefect Ruby McKay to allow the community to find out a bit more about her. Ruby is an incredible Hockey player, heavily involved in service initiatives at Kristin, is super friendly, always has a smile on her face and is certain to be a fantastic role model, leader and representative of our school. Hear more from Ruby below:

 

Tell us what year you started at Kristin?

I first started at Kristin in Year 8 after moving to New Zealand from London.

 

What is your first memory of being a Kristin student?

My first memory at Kristin was touring the school with my friendly student buddy. I was amazed by how welcoming everyone was and the amount of outdoor space Kristin has, having come from a small city school of just 160 students.

 

What do you love most about Kristin?

My favourite part about Kristin is the connections I have been able to build. This is not just limited to my year group, and I have loved getting to know both older and younger students through sports, House competitions and student mentoring programmes.

 

What motivates you and what are you passionate about?

As cliché as it sounds, I am motivated to be the best person I can be. I always try to make the most of opportunities, work hard at my academics and push myself to try new things. In a sporting environment, I’m passionate about representing the school with pride. This drives me to give 100% effort and inspire the younger players around me. 

 

What cocurricular activities do you take part in?

Next year will be my fourth year in the Kristin Hockey Girls’ 1st XI. As a passionate player, games and training are something I look forward to. I have also been able to give back to the community through service groups such as the Kristin Red Cross and Lucas Creek Restoration Club.

 

What is your favourite subject at school?

Throughout Middle and Senior School, I have developed a passion for design. I love developing my ideas through problem-solving to create an end product. I enjoy the creative class environment and how we are encouraged to express our own unique design style. 

 

What are you most proud of in your time at Kristin?

My proudest moment at Kristin was being a part of the Girls’ 1st XI Hockey team when we finished 4th in New Zealand at Tournament Week this year. Our team has grown so much over the years, so we're so excited to set a new school record and standard for Hockey here at Kristin. 

 

What are your goals as Head Prefect?

My goal as Head Prefect is to be a positive role model who leads by example. I aim to build meaningful connections and encourage collaboration amongst students. I will continue to strengthen our relationship with Birkdale Primary School and other service initiatives in the wider community.  

 

What does becoming Head Prefect mean to you?

I am so incredibly grateful to be Head Prefect at Kristin. It’s an amazing opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills and contribute to the Kristin community. I’m enthusiastic about working with an inspiring team and believe we will make a positive impact.

 

What are your plans beyond Kristin?

Beyond Kristin, I look forward to submerging myself in the uni lifestyle. I am interested in pursuing my passions in design and business, as well as continuing to grow and perform as a Hockey player. Whether in New Zealand or overseas, I am excited to meet new people and create fun memories!

 

Do you have a favourite Kristin moment?

There are so many! Camp week is always a highlight with many funny moments and adventurous activities. I enjoy spending time outdoors and getting to know others better!
 

What does your ideal weekend look like? 

Ideally, it would involve lots of time out on the water surfing, skiing and swimming. I love being out in nature and enjoy spending time with my friends and family. In the winter, I always look forward to my Sunday Hockey games and cosy movie nights. 

 

Do you have a funny Kristin story you can share? 

Those who know me well know that I love a good laugh. As a result, I have definitely been caught with a dangerous case of the giggles many times. I can’t think of anything off the top of my head; however, sometimes you just have to be there to understand how funny it really was!  

 

Note: Next week, we will catch up with Ruby’s fellow Head Prefect, Alex Goodwin.
 

 

‘Our people’ is a regular series where we shine a spotlight on a remarkable individual who contributes to our school and our community, highlighting their unique stories and the passions that drive them. We hope you enjoy as we celebrate the incredible characters who make Kristin a special place of aroha.