Kath Deady
Principal of Carmel College
I grew up in Scotland and went to University in Australia, but have lived in the Devonport area since 1975. Still can’t believe my luck! When I went back into teaching after having my family, I relieved at four North Shore schools, and after two years took a full-time job at Rosmini College, where my sons went to school. After four years I moved to Carmel, in a middle management role, and began post-graduate study at the brand new Massey University, Albany campus. I’ve worked away from the Shore for almost eight years, commuting to McAuley High School, Otahuhu, but in 2003 came back to Carmel as Principal. I LOVE living, working and being part of various communities on the Shore!
The view from our staffroom, across Lake Pupuke. The lake changes minute by minute, and it’s very calming, on days that are ultra-busy, just to breathe and look at it.
Narrow Neck Beach, just a short downhill stroll or bike ride from where I live. Whatever the season, and whoever else is there, whether it’s one other person and a dog, or a whole Pasifika church picnic going on, it soothes my soul. Roll on pohutukawa season.
Breakfast with old friends at one of the Devonport cafes. A group of us who had children at Narrowneck Playcentre and St Leo’s school meet once a month, and we’ve been doing this for more than 20 years. Zigana, Platters and the Narrowneck Beach Café are recent favourites.
Singing in the choir at St Francis de Sales. I’m an alto, and there are only two or three of us, so we feel very important around Easter and Christmas time. The chance to make music with a group of others is magic!
Having my family round for a meal – three of the six children, and five of the six (shortly to be seven) grandchildren live in Auckland, so it’s chaotic and noisy, but fun. I have visions of myself like an Italian nonna, presiding over long Sunday lunches – now I just have to organise the outdoor pizza oven.
Janet Marshall
