Meet the International Team
Our International Team works closely together to ensure every international student at Whangārei Boys’ High School is well supported, well known, and able to thrive. From arrival and homestay, through learning and wellbeing, our students and families have clear points of contact and strong pastoral care throughout their time with us.
Shaun Matthews
Director of International Students
Shaun Matthews leads the International Department at WBHS. With a strong background in sport and youth development, Shaun understands the needs, aspirations, and wellbeing of young people and works closely with students, families, and agents to ensure a high-quality international experience.
Responsibilities include:
- Leading the International Department
- Ensuring a high standard of care and support for international students
- Liaising with education agents in New Zealand and overseas
- Working closely with school leadership and support staff
- Managing international strategy, marketing, and communications
Laura Kerrisk Fannin
International Home Stay Coordinator
Laura is our International Homestay Coordinator and plays a key role in ensuring students feel safe, supported, and at home. She embraces tūrangawaewae — a sense of belonging and identity — and works closely with students and families to create positive homestay experiences.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing pastoral care and ongoing support for international students
- Placing students with safe, welcoming homestay families
Warren Litchfield
Deputy Principal – International
- Assists students to plain their learning and curriculum
- Tailors unique course programmes for each student
Simon Crosby
ESOL Teacher
- Offers small, supportive ESOL classes
- Teaches IELTS and supports students with other subjects
Emergency Contact
For urgent matters outside school hours, please get in touch with our 24-hour emergency number: 021 193 4649
Our Space – Te Whare Kauika
Te Whare Kauika is the home of our International Department at Whangārei Boys’ High School. This purpose-developed space provides a place for students to connect, study, relax, and feel supported as part of our international community.
The name Te Whare Kauika holds deep cultural and local significance. Kauika is the name of the pā site in the ranges overlooking the main entrance to our kura. In te reo Māori, kauika also refers to pods of whales that continue to visit our harbour each year — reflecting connection, belonging, and shared journey.