A Legacy of Growth

In the tranquil embrace of Hokianga Harbour, a significant milestone in the history of Lasallian education was marked by a meaningful act of nature. In September 2020, the three Lasallian schools in New Zealand—De La Salle College in Auckland, Francis Douglas Memorial College in New Plymouth, and John Paul College in Rotorua—came together to plant 300 trees on Motukaraka Island, commemorating the commitment to faith, service, and community.

The Initiative by the New Zealand Sector

The tree planting on Motukaraka Island is a testament to the enduring spirit of Lasallian education. The island itself holds historical significance. Just seven minutes from Totara Point, where Bishop Jean Baptiste Pompallier celebrated the first Catholic Mass on New Zealand soil, Motukaraka Island was purchased from local Māori by a Sydney sea captain in 1832. However, the island remained neglected for nearly 40 years before it caught the attention of Orla Walsh, a Year 13 student at John Paul College in 2020.

Orla, who was Head Girl of John Paul College in 2020, wanted to leave a lasting legacy for her school. She, along with the senior leadership team and Year 13 students, decided that a project commemorating their school’s patron would be a meaningful and enduring contribution. Orla’s vision was to honour both the natural beauty of the island and the values of Lasallian education.

Under Orla’s guidance, and with the support of her mother, Paulene Walsh, as well as the island’s owner (caretaker of the island), Richard, the Lasallian schools mobilised to begin this environmental initiative. The schools raised funds to purchase 300 trees, which were planted as the beginning of "La Salle Grove." These trees were grown locally by a nursery man, who carefully nurtured them to ensure their success. Over the past four years, the grove has steadily flourished, and a comprehensive planting plan aims to introduce 3,000 trees over the next five years, restoring the island’s ecosystem and reintroducing native bird species such as Tui, Fantails, and Bellbirds.

The owner of Motukaraka Island continues to take steps to revitalise the area, working alongside local conservationists to eradicate predators threatening the fragile ecosystem. In a generous gesture, the Forestry Commission donated a beautiful piece of wood to mark the area as "La Salle Grove," symbolising the collaborative spirit that has defined the project.

Despite challenges—including a drought and the impact of COVID-19—the local community and the island’s owner have persevered. The trees have grown steadily over the past four years, with many volunteers and supporters impressed by the fundraising efforts of the schools. This ongoing commitment ensures that the island will serve as a living memorial—a sanctuary for reflection, beauty, and a connection to nature.

Looking Ahead

As we commemorate this remarkable journey, we express our deepest gratitude to all who have contributed to the Lasallian mission. The La Salle Grove on Motukaraka Island stands as a beacon of hope, embodying the values and vision of St. John Baptist de La Salle. Just as the trees flourish in Hokianga, may the spirit of Lasallian education continue to grow, nurturing future generations in faith, service, and community.

John Baptist de La Salle has a grove near the site where Bishop Jean Baptiste Pompallier celebrated the first Catholic Mass in Aotearoa New Zealand. These two Frenchmen, whose contributions have been pivotal in establishing a strong Catholic presence in New Zealand, have left a lasting legacy—one that continues to inspire and guide us today.

Source: Kate Mason, District Communications Manager