Paul McKinley is being remembered a leader who shaped the very fabric of his school after dying suddenly as the result of a medical event over the weekend.
McKinley was the principal of Glenfield College on Auckland's North Shore.
In a statement, presiding member of the school's board of trustees, Donna Kahaki, said the school community would take the time needed to process their loss, and support one another.
"Since joining Glenfield College in 2017, Paul assembled an exceptional team, celebrating their achievements and fostering a culture of excellence," Kahaki said.
"Whether on the sidelines of college sports events or in the hallways, Paul made it his mission to connect, support, and empower those around him."
She said McKinley's personal touch left an indelible mark on the school, and that his unwavering passion for education was evident in every interaction.
Prior to joining Glenfield College, McKinley was the associate principal at Mount Albert Grammar School and the deputy headmaster at Westlake Boys' High School.
Glenfield College did not run to a normal timetable on Monday, but was open for students who wanted to come in for "support and guidance", the school said in a notice to parents.
A counselling team and year level deans were also available, the notice said.