Philip Craigie (60) has been the principal at the college for the past 11 years - a time in his life he describes as being some of his most fulfilling.
Before his arrival at Kaikorai, he was deputy principal at The Taieri High School, Mosgiel, for 12 years, and before that head of the music departments at Otago Boys' High School and Riccarton High School, Christchurch.
So what does an educator with 40 years' experience do after leaving the classroom?When he is not at his desk or offering words of wisdom and inspiration to his pupils in school assemblies, he is busy as the conductor of the Mosgiel Brass Band.
A brass band conductor since the age of 19, he is looking forward to giving more time to his musical passion.
"I've also got a collection - or should I say, a fleet - of British cars from the 1960s and 1970s which always need maintenance, and I live in an historic house [built in 1867] on the Taieri which also needs regular attention."
Mr Craigie was also keen to tend to a garden and, with the experience and wisdom he had accumulated, believed he might be able to help schools as a professional consultant.
"I don't think I will have any worries about filling in my days."
Reflecting on his tenure at Kaikorai Valley College, Mr Craigie said he had stayed at the school so long because it was friendly and supportive, which fitted well with his "relaxed, happy and not-bothered-too-much-by-the-stress-of-the-job attitude".
"The last 11 years have been great. I think I was matched pretty well for this school."
Highlights of his career had been overseeing the development of the school's gymnasium and special needs facilities and the forthcoming upgrade of the administration block and school hall.
However, the pinnacle of his time at the college was the school's 50th jubilee celebration in 2008.
"I was pleased with how well the former pupils responded to the event. It was a great buzz for me.
"There's lots of highlights every year. The most satisfying times were the school prizegivings each year, and seeing the success of young people at the school.
"It has been rewarding watching them grow and go on to achieve in the wider world."
Mr Craigie, who will finish as principal in April, was looking towards "retirement day" with a mixture of both excitement and sadness.
