Whangārei Boys’ High School Principal Appointment

The Board is delighted to announce the appointment of Alec Solomon as the new tumuaki | principal of Whangārei Boys’ High School, effective from the start of Term 1 2025.

Alec is an Old Boy of Whangārei Boys High School, lives in the Whangārei community and is currently tumuaki of Tikipunga High School.  He brings 20 years’ experience in educational leadership (11 as principal) to the role and is also on the executive of the Secondary Principals Association of New Zealand (SPANZ).  Alec has a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from The University of Auckland, a Diploma in Teaching and a Bachelor Degree in Physical Education.  He has had experience in large secondary schools such as Rangitoto College and Albany Senior High School.

At Tikipunga High School, he has greatly enjoyed leading a school that is closely connected to its local community, focused on learning, and committed to championing equity while striving to achieve the best outcomes for students. The relationships that he has developed at Tikipunga will be invaluable in his role at Whangārei Boys’ High School.

The Board engaged in a rigorous selection process which included consultation with our school community to develop our criteria for appointment.   The position was advertised nationally, with the process including school visits, referees’ reports and checks and interviews.

Alec is married to Shelley, a pelvic health physiotherapist. They have two school-aged children. He is a keen fisherman and scuba diver. He is genuinely excited about the opportunity to lead Whangārei Boys’ High School into its next chapter. The school’s strong foundation, vibrant community, and commitment to developing future leaders are qualities that he deeply values.

From Alec…

It is with great excitement that I step into the role of principal at Whangārei Boys’ High School in 2025. As an old boy of WBHS, this is a meaningful homecoming for me. The lessons and experiences I gained here as a student have stayed with me throughout my journey, and I feel truly privileged to return and contribute to the legacy of this great school, a school “anchored in excellence”.

I want to acknowledge Karen Smith for her leadership and unwavering dedication to the school. I also extend my sincere thanks to the Board for placing their trust in me. With 11 years of experience as principal of Tikipunga High School, I have developed a passion for fostering student success and building collaborative relationships with staff, students, and whānau. I am excited to bring that same commitment to WBHS and look forward to working together with our community to inspire excellence and create new opportunities for every student to succeed.

A powhiri for Alec will be organised and announced in the New Year.

I would like to thank my fellow board members, staff and students for their input and support throughout this appointment process.

Andrew Carvell
Presiding Member
Board of Whangārei Boys’ High School