25/08/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Julie Holt this morning. Julie held a very special place within our Whananaki School whānau, and her loss is deeply felt. She was much more to us than our former Enviroschools Facilitator, she was a friend, a passionate supporter of our kura, and someone who genuinely loved Whananaki and our tamariki.
Julie had an incredible passion for the environment and a very special love for Whananaki. Over many years, she generously shared her knowledge, enthusiasm and time with our kura, helping generations of Whananaki students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the unique environment they are fortunate to grow up alongside.
One of Julie’s lasting legacies at Whananaki School is the Whananaki Estuary Monitoring Group, which she designed and implemented. Many of our students over the years have taken part, getting their feet wet and their hands dirty while learning about the ecosystems, plants and creatures that make Te Wairahi so special. Julie was never someone who simply taught from the sidelines. She was hands-on, working alongside our tamariki in the estuary and encouraging their curiosity and care for the natural world.
Julie also created wonderful learning resources for our students and generously donated many books and resources to our school. These remain with us today and will continue to educate future generations of Whananaki children, a very special legacy of the knowledge she so willingly shared.
Her connection to Whananaki was also deeply personal. Julie’s grandfather, a Cunningham, had a bach near Wharf Road, and she often spoke fondly of her memories of time spent at Kings Beach. Even in her last days with us. Whananaki was a place close to her heart, and that genuine connection could always be felt in the passion she brought to her work here.
Julie’s contribution reached far beyond our kura. Through her work, she shared her love and knowledge of the environment with many schools, teachers and students throughout Northland, inspiring young people to understand, respect and care for the places around them.
We were incredibly fortunate to have Julie as part of our Whananaki whānau. Her knowledge, kindness, passion and contribution to our kura and environment will not be forgotten. Every time our tamariki head down to the estuary to explore, learn and care for this special place, a little part of Julie’s legacy will continue.
Julie will be deeply missed. Our aroha and support go out to her whānau and all those who knew and loved her at this very sad time.
Moe mai rā e Julie.
Haere atu rā ki te pō.
Ka maumahara tonu mātou ki a koe.
Moe mai, moe mai, moe mai rā.
🕊️ E kore koe e warewaretia.
