Pōkeno resident and Pukekohe High School graduate celebrated
Local Pokeno resident and ex-Pukekohe High School student Sophia Chen has graduated from a national scholarship programme, supported by local company Counties Energy.
Chen, who won her First Foundation scholarship to study biomedical engineering and science (with a major in psychology and computer science) at the University of Auckland, has been working at Counties Energy during her holidays.
She graduated from the programme in June, and was celebrated at First Foundation ceremony for graduates and their whānau.
Chen said university has been a steep learning curve.
“I’m really grateful for the support from Counties Energy along the way. I’m especially grateful for everyone on the team who made this experience enriching and welcomed me with open arms. I will cherish and benefit from the gained life lessons for years to come.”
Counties Energy General Manager Safety, Culture and Sustainability Tracey Kay said it was an honour to offer the scholarship to Chen.
“Sophia has been an absolute pleasure to have as part of the team for three years,” Kay said.
“We’ve watched her grow from a school student leaving Pukekohe High School to a mature, confident, extremely diligent and dedicated young woman who has brought so much knowledge and joy to our team, the office and our events.
“We wish her the very best on her future pathway and know she will be successful in anything she puts her mind to.”
Counties Energy is partnering with another First Foundation scholarship recipient, ex-Pukekohe High School student Isabella Coughlin.
For more information on First Foundation go to www.firstfoundation.org.nz....
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There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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74.4% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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13.8% Hmm, maybe?
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11.9% Yes!
A riddle to start the festive season 🌲🎁🌟
I'm a fruit. If you take away my first letter, I'm a crime. If you take away my first two letters, I'm an animal. If you take away my first and last letter, I'm a form of music. What am I?
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Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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52.9% Yes
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47.1% No
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