We are thrilled to announce that last week, we welcomed Daiji Kataoka to the Onslow College community in the role of Director of International Students
A Journey from International Student to Director
Daiji brings a wealth of experience and a unique personal perspective to this role. He originally came to New Zealand to study as an international student at Massey University in Palmerston North, where he focused on linguistics. This personal experience gives him a deep understanding of the journey our international students are embarking on.
His teaching career is extensive. Most recently, Daiji joins us after two years teaching Japanese (Years 7-13) and the IB curriculum at Queen Margaret College. Prior to that, he served for 15 years at Wainuiomata High School as the International Student Coordinator and Dean, focusing on pastoral care. His background also includes teaching stints at Kapiti College and Queens High School in Dunedin.
Vision for Onslow
Daiji has wanted to work within the Onslow and Newlands community for a long time; having lived in Newlands previously, he has a strong appreciation for the local community.
He describes Onslow College as super inclusive, relaxed, and caring, noting the strong relationships between students and teachers. His goals for the International Programme include:
- Developing students into global citizens.
- Increasing sister school relationships in Japan and developing reciprocal student exchanges.
- Organising overseas opportunities for students such as cultural exchanges, something he successfully led during his time at Wainuiomata.
Life Beyond School: Finding ‘Ikigai’
Outside of his professional life, Daiji lives in Porirua with his two young children. In his spare time, he is passionate about spearfishing and diving at Makara Beach.
Daiji describes this passion as his ‘Ikigai’.
Ikigai (pronounced ee-key-guy) is a Japanese concept meaning “a reason for being.” It combines passion, mission, vocation, and profession into a harmonious life—often visualized as the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Expanding the Team
The International team is also pleased to welcome Beth Grieve as the International Student Services Coordinator. Beth’s role will include pastoral care, administration, and is the key point of contact for all things homestay. Beth previously worked in the risk and compliance space in the tertiary education sector of NZQA.
We hope Daiji and Beth enjoy being part of the wider Onslow team, and we look forward to seeing the International Programme flourish in 2026 and beyond.
