A much-loved member of the Matatā community has been recognised for his extraordinary service to both the Catholic Church and education, receiving the prestigious Benemerenti Medal, a papal honour bestowed directly by the Pope.

For those connected to Te Kura o Hato Hohepa ki Matatā, the honour comes as no surprise.

Terry Murphy has dedicated decades of service to the school, parish, and wider community, leaving an enduring legacy that has touched countless lives.

In 2013, Te Kura o Hato Hohepa ki Matatā faced one of the most challenging periods in its history.

With the school under threat of closure, uncertainty hung heavily over the community. A dedicated group of supporters rallied to save the kura.

Fundraisers worked tirelessly, volunteers gave countless hours of service, professionals donated their expertise, and drivers travelled daily to collect students from Te Teko, Edgecumbe, and Whakatāne.

While many contributed to the effort, strong leadership was needed to guide the school through the crisis. That leader was Murphy.

A new board of trustees was formed and Murphy was elected chair, a position he has held for the past 13 years.

Combined with his earlier years of board service, Murphy has devoted more than 30 years to the governance and wellbeing of the school.

His leadership, vision, and unwavering belief in Catholic education played a pivotal role in ensuring the survival of Te Kura o Hato Hohepa ki Matatā. Today, the school continues to flourish, thanks in no small part to his commitment and determination.

Those who know Murphy speak not only of his leadership but also of his deep sense of service. He lives the value of aroha tētahi ki tētahi – loving and caring for one another – through his daily actions.

He is often described as someone who embodies the words of St Mary MacKillop: “Never see a need without doing something about it.”

Over the years, Murphy has secured a school van and taken responsibility for its upkeep, provided pastoral care and support for whānau, carried out maintenance work around the school, and freely given countless volunteer hours wherever help was needed.

Even while unwell recently, he could still be found at the school clearing overgrowth and weeding along the fence line.

Behind him throughout this journey has been his wife, Trish, whose support, generosity, and commitment have also contributed significantly to the life of the school.

At a special gathering attended by current and former students, staff, whānau, and community members, heartfelt thanks were expressed to the couple for their years of dedicated service.

“Your dedication, generosity, and service have touched the lives of countless people and helped shape our kura into the special place it is today,” said principal Bridget Rika.

“The impact you have made on this school and community cannot be measured, but it will be remembered with gratitude for many years to come.”