Fiona Cavanagh started in the role about a month ago and is pleased to report she is enjoying the ''small-school values'' of the school, which has nearly 700 pupils on its roll.
''They behave like children and they are unsophisticated,'' Ms Cavanagh said of the pupils.
''That's very refreshing to lead a school where kids are kids.''
More than 30 different nationalities are represented within the school, making Queenstown Primary School feel like the world in miniature, but Ms Cavanagh is well versed in cultural interaction.
''I have come from Mangere, in South Auckland, ... and prior to that I led a school where the main ethnic group were Filipino.
''I'm very familiar with working in very ethnically rich school environments.''
Inheriting what she termed a successful school full of respectful and friendly children meant any changes would only be concerning systems and organisation.
The Remarkables are framed like a painting by her office window and she was quick to say she felt ''very relaxed in this environment'' and lucky.
She likened the school culture to her time growing up in the central North Island, which offered a similar school programme rich with outdoor pursuits.
Now, she was looking forward to putting on skis with the children as part of the school's snow programme.
''We live in such a beautiful location and the people reflect the energy of our location.''
