Passing of Former Principal

A totara has fallen in the forest of Tane – Kua hinga he totara i te wao nui a Tane.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of Cashmere High School’s previous principals, Mr John Murdoch, who died suddenly at Christchurch Hospital on July 17th, aged 90.

John Murdoch joined the Cashmere High School staff in 1957 as a science teacher. He resigned at the end of 1961 to do country service, then returned in 1964 as Senior Chemistry Master. In 1969 he was promoted to Deputy Principal and then became the school’s third principal from 1981 until his retirement in 1991.

Just two months ago he was a special guest, along with former principals Mr Ron Chapman and Mr Dave Turnbull, at a school assembly celebrating Mr Chapman’s 100th birthday.

Our thoughts are with Mr Murdoch’s family and loved ones.

RIP Mr Murdoch.

Presenting awards at a school assembly in May 2023