Diocesan School for Girls and Ovation Hospitality are proud to announce a new partnership that sets a refreshed benchmark for student dining, wellbeing, and community connection within New Zealand’s independent schools. Built on shared values and a commitment to excellence, the collaboration reflects what can be achieved when a school and a service provider align not only operationally, but culturally and philosophically.
A Partnership Rooted in Care and Purpose
From Ovation’s perspective, Diocesan School for Girls represents a significant milestone - its first new premium partner since entering the New Zealand market under its parent company, DHG Hospitality Group. Ovation CEO Patrick McCartney describes the partnership as “a privilege and responsibility we hold close to our hearts,” emphasising the organisation’s purpose of lifting the standard of foodservice across Aotearoa through care, cultural connection, safety, and innovation.
For Diocesan School for Girls, the motivation is equally clear. The school sought a partner capable not just of delivering meals, but of contributing to the wellbeing, identity, and daily experience of its students. Ovation’s focus on manaakitanga, structured governance, student voice, and continuous improvement resonated strongly with Dio’s Anglican identity and commitment to nurturing the whole person.
Paul Sherris, Director of Business and Planning states “Our partnership with Ovation Hospitality marks an exciting step forward for Diocesan School for Girls. From the beginning, Ovation has demonstrated a genuine commitment to understanding our culture, our students, and our aspirations—building not just a service relationship, but a true partnership grounded in care, collaboration, and shared purpose.”
A Service Model Built for Independent Schools
At the core of the partnership is a robust service model developed through decades of experience in education, healthcare, and large‑scale hospitality environments. Ovation’s proven operational foundations, including a verified MPI Food Control Plan, independent auditing, allergen management, and robust staff training provide assurance for schools where safety and consistency are paramount.
But what differentiates this partnership is the emphasis on cultural alignment and student‑centred design. Through daily feedback loops ,structured forums, and a governance model spanning weekly operational check‑ins to annual strategic reviews, Dio’s students and staff will help shape their dining experience in real time. Seasonal four‑week menu cycles, termly student workshops with Ovation’s registered dietitian and executive chef and dedicated well-being-focused initiatives ensure the service remains relevant, nutritious, and engaging.
An Enriched Student Experience
Ovation’s track record - spanning long‑term partnerships with Christ’s College, Whanganui Collegiate School, Solway College, and Te Whatu Ora hospitals - illustrates its ability to create food experiences that foster belonging and community. For Dio, this will translate into culture‑rich events, themed dinners, and opportunities for students to explore food as part of their identity and wellbeing.
Beyond the dining hall, the partnership also extends to learning opportunities. Through Ovation’s deep ties with Go Media Stadium and DINE Academy, Dio students will have access to workshops, barista training, hospitality pathways, and behind‑the‑scenes insights into large‑scale event operations - connecting classroom learning with real‑world experience.
Looking Forward
Together, Diocesan School for Girls and Ovation Hospitality are redefining what food service can mean within an independent school: a source of nourishment, a platform for cultural expression, a contributor to wellbeing, and a shared space where community is built every day.
This partnership demonstrates what is possible when schools and service providers collaborate on more than just operational needs—they build relationships that enrich the student journey.
Photo credit Kanta Sutthiyut, Boarding Student, Diocesan School for Girls.
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