PHOTO: TONI MCDONALDThe long-awaited Sir Peter Beck Science and Innovation Centre opened at James Hargest College yesterday. The opening marked the end of a decade-long project and honoured one of the school’s distinguished former students, Rocket Lab founder Sir Peter Beck. Deputy principal Anna McDowall said Sir Peter had immediately accepted the honour of the naming of the centre when asked. Sir Peter said returning to James Hargest felt ‘‘super weird to turn up back to school as an adult’’. ‘‘Never ever combine a Bunsen burner, a stainless steel sink and a manila folder in the science room.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 31, 2026 18:08 UTC