On Saturday night, our senior students did the unthinkable and gave up their tartan and blazers. Yes, you read that right. The TCAS formal saw our seniors trading in uniform for high fashion, hairspray, and the occasional tie that may or may not have required a YouTube tutorial.

Despite the classic Catlins weather (cold, wet, and just damp enough to ruin your $50 curls), the wet skies provided the perfect backdrop for students to strut down a dreamy, tree-lined entrance filled with lights. Take that, Met Gala. Held at the ever-enchanting River Ridge Retreat, this year’s “Into the Woods” theme came to life with twinkling lights, forest charm, and just enough fog to make it feel like we’d planned it.

The students really brought the energy this year and dancing like nobody was watching (even though everyone was). Every student submitted their ultimate jam song ahead of time, meaning the playlist was a glorious chaotic mix of country ballads, 90s bangers, and Techno that made the glasses vibrate. The dance floor remained packed, the buzz was electric, and the vibes were strictly PG with stomping, singing, soft drink sipping.

Formal Royalty 2025 was crowned with Phillip Lealavaa and Amelia Morrison taking out the titles of Formal King and Queen. Not to be outshone, Austin Morrison and Portia Chambers were named Best Dressed. Following the royal crowning, a slow dance commenced. Let’s just say there was a record-breaking amount of shuffling side-to-side and accidental eye contact. The floor was chocca and the mood was peak.

Events like this don’t magically happen without serious behind-the-scenes magic. The Head Students extend massive thanks to Adele Sellars, who once again waved her magic wand and transformed River Ridge into an absolute fairytale. From decorating and drink-serving to cleaning, and curating the atmosphere, Adele you’re the real MVP.

Huge appreciation also goes to the South Otago Sharks, who fed us with mouth-watering platters and to the teachers who played bodyguards, greeters, and backup dancers when the Macarena came on. A special shoutout to our talented photographer Casey Young from Tuapeka Captures Wedding Photography, who worked the room like a paparazzi. Your snaps are stunning and have perfectly captured our best angles and moments. And finally, to the dedicated locals who braved the rain to cheer us on. Thanks for ooh-ing and ahh-ing, even when some of us were attempting to navigate a stony path in heels we clearly couldn’t walk in.

Formal 2025, you were an absolute blast. You gave us laughter, dance moves, epic outfits, and memories that’ll last longer than the fake tan. Bring on next year!