Saddened to hear of this news, Mr Duncan was definatly someone who cared very much not only for the school but equally for its students. A humble cherful man who will truly be missed by fellow teachers and students. Preys and thoughts to all of his family and loved ones. May we "all rise" this friday in memory of such a respected man.

I just wanted to send my love and thoughts to the family. I'm yet another former NPGHS girl... honestly, I feel like I don't remember as much of high school as I feel like I should 16 years on, and I don't remember many interactions or particular events with Mr Duncan. Just a feeling, of his humour and his kindness. I remember one day having to go to his office to see him, and I can't even remember what for - yet I CAN remember feeling surprised at how absolutely kind and lovely he was. The school and former students were definitely lucky to have had so may years of his care and time. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Rod and Sue were our neighbours at Maranui St for many years. We couldn't have asked for a nicer family to live next door to. Rod was always kind, calm and caring. He was an excellent deputy principal at Girls High (where our daughters went to school). He was patient and loving with his family and pets, enjoyed working in his garden and walking in the park. He had a deep interest in history and a keen intelligence, whilst being modest and unassuming. We will always remember him with great fondness and wish there were more people in the world like him. Love to all the family xxx

A really, kind caring neighbour and friend. Tom McAlpine

rip mr duncan you were amazing a npghs and never be forgotten

A wonderful man who was a talented educator, a true gentleman and a gentle soul who was integrity personafied.

A true gentleman and such a pleasure to work with at New Plymouth Girls' High School. Rod was always willing to help and did so with a wonderful smile and great humour. Arohanui Melissa

So very sad to hear of Mr Duncan's passing. He was a great man and wonderful deputy principal. As other tributes have mentioned Assembly time was a fond memory, with his "All rise" and I can't help but smile when I think back on the reference to this that we did in our 7th form skit to Eminem's "Real slim shady" part of the song - please stand up. Still brings a smile to my face thinking about it. He will be greatly missed by the community and it was an honour to be a student during his time at NPGHS.

Na mihi nui ki a Duncan whanau. Kei roto i te tau 2000 - 2004, Ko au ka haere ki te kura tuarua o Ngamotu. Assemblies, Prize Givings and all round NPGHS related activities will never be the same! They were never boring when you were around, that is for sure. There were many a time that you were imitated during house and year 13 performances, with your “all rise” and your tie flicked over the shoulder. I am sure, that a lot of your former girls have lots of these fond moments of the little things you did - to make school activities a little bit more bearable. Thank you and Ms Gaudin for all that you did for me while I was a student at NPGHS and representing the school in Te Roopu Kapahaka, Tuhonohono o Nga Rangatahi. Both your supports meant a lot to the Girls, becoming Woman - making their mark on the world. Along with the Boys, becoming young men that came to join us from across the river. You were not only the NPGHS influencer but, I know you also had an impact on NPBHS as well. Fly free Mr D, with all of those NPGHS representatives that have gone before you. We “All Rise” and solute you! Haere Haere atu ra, tino aroha ki toku whanau

Much aroha and condolences to the Duncan Whanau - have many fond memories of Rod when I was working at GHS (for 10 years).A true Gentleman,humble,loving,caring and a love of Te Ao Maori.May you forever rest in love and peace Dear Rod xoxoxox

My heart goes out to Mr Duncan's family and friends during this time. He was an amazing mentor, teacher and Deputy Principal. History class was definitely a highlight during my time at NPGHS and it definitely had everything to do with Mr Duncan. He was kind, supportive and always saw the best in us. He had a big influence in my life and he will not be forgotten.

I was sad to see Mr Duncan had passed. I have very fond memories of him from school at NPGHS. I was a bit of a troublemaker and spent a lot of time outside his office for most of my schooling, however Mr Duncan never gave up on me. He continued to praise me and encourage me as well as he often came to my soccer games. I didn't have a supportive parent who would do that and so I appreciated the fact that this Deputy Principal would take the time out of his weekend to come and see me play. I wish I had the chance to thank him as he was one of several mentors that have shaped me into the successful Professional Boxer I am now. RIP Rod. Thankyou for everything you did for me.My thoughts are wuth your family for losing a special man ❤❤❤

Im so saddened by this news. i went to NPGHS and as Courtnay said below. One of the first things that comes to mind was assembly time. Mr Duncan would motion and we would all know. even if you didnt know You Knew! I often tell the story to friends some 12+ years on. I never heard anyone say a bad word about Mr Duncan. and why would they. Was loved and respected by all . Condolences to his loved ones.

Mr Duncan was an incredible deputy principal when I attended NPGHS. Well respected by all students. He was kind, soft and caring but knew when to come down hard on us. Will never forget his gestures to shut the assembly hall up, as soon as he did that, we all knew, and we all went silent. Condolences to family and friends, he was a truly great man.

Rod was deputy principal at NPGHS when I arrive in NZ from France in 1986. I have been in education 30+years and I can say he was the best, most caring, most helpful and encouraging DP I have ever had. One of my favourite persons at NPGHS in the few years I spent there. I know he will be missed and my thoughts are with his family.