Our international students had an absolute ball at this year’s annual Thames High School Ball! On Saturday, June 20, the Thames Civic Centre was transformed into a dazzling spectacle centred around the theme “See the Lights,” creating an unforgettable night of music, dancing, and celebration.
Arriving in Style
One of the most exciting Thames High traditions is the red-carpet arrival outside the Civic Centre, where the whole community comes out to watch. Our international students got to experience the fun firsthand, cheering as classmates arrived in classic vintage cars, tractors, and even a fire engine!
A Magical Evening
Inside, the venue blew everyone away with vibrant lighting displays, great music, and exquisite decorations. For many of our study-abroad students, experiencing a Kiwi high school ball is a major highlight of their time in New Zealand. The evening offered the perfect opportunity to dress up, share meals, hit the dance floor, and create lifelong memories with friends from all over the world.
As Welfare Student Leader and Ball King Ben Fitzgerald shared:
“The school ball was a memorable night that I had been looking forward to for a long time. Getting ready with my friends was one of my favourite parts… Looking back, the ball was more than just a formal event—it was an opportunity to celebrate, make lasting memories, and enjoy one final special occasion with friends.”
Celebrating Together
It was a festive night for the entire school community, with awards handed out for everything from Best Dressed to Best Ride.
A huge thank you to the Ball Committee, teacher-in-charge Jen Fletcher, and all the event sponsors, technical crew, photographers, and caterers who made the evening such a success.
We are so glad our international students were able to take part in such a rich Kiwi school tradition and have a night they’ll remember for years to come!
