Police are investigating allegations that the Bangerz Education and Wellbeing Trust attempted to illegally access the computer network of Kelston Boys High School in Auckland.
Investigation Follows Failed Takeover Bid
This investigation comes after the Bangerz Trust’s recent, and ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to convert Kelston Boys High School into a charter school. The trust withdrew its application last month following significant public opposition, as reported on November 20, 2025.
According to former and current staff members, Kelston Boys High School filed a complaint with police in August alleging that a 20-year-old individual connected to the trust used a student’s login credentials to access the school’s student portal. The alleged aim was to obtain the school roll and student email addresses.
Requests for Electoral Roll Access
Prior to the alleged unauthorized access, individuals linked to the Bangerz Trust reportedly made multiple requests to view the school’s electoral roll. On July 14, James Cherrington-Thomas, the 21-year-old chairperson of the trust, formally requested to “inspect the [election] roll” ahead of the school board elections.
Further communication, sent to New Lynn MP Paulo Garcia’s office on July 31, challenged the school’s decision to allow access to the roll for name verification only, prohibiting note-taking or information recording. This email was signed with varying names, including those of former Kelston Boys students, and originated from an email address connected to Rhys Cullen, a tutor with the trust.
Concerns Regarding Rhys Cullen’s Background
Rhys Cullen, known to students as “the Doc,” previously worked as a GP but lost his license in 2007 due to professional misconduct. He also has a criminal conviction from 2009 for receiving 15 stolen cars related to a scrap metal business.
Further Communication and Election Outcome
Following the school’s limited access to the electoral roll, the Bangerz Trust also contacted Education Minister Erica Stanford, again through an email linked to Cullen and signed by a 20-year-old former student. The email expressed concern that the restrictions would hinder their ability to “personalise our electioneering” and might necessitate broader leaflet distribution.
In September, Sione Lisala, a 19-year-old former student with ties to the Bangerz Trust, was elected to the school board. The trust subsequently launched a bid to take over the school in October, a bid that was later withdrawn due to public opposition.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting confirmed that a complaint regarding “the offence of dishonestly accessing a computer system” has been lodged and is currently under investigation. The Bangerz Trust stated they are unaware of any complaint and have not been contacted by police. Kelston Boys’ High School declined to comment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specifically is the Bangerz Trust accused of doing?
The Bangerz Trust is accused of attempting to illegally access Kelston Boys High School’s computer network through the use of a student’s login credentials, with the alleged intention of obtaining the school roll and student email addresses.
What was the Bangerz Trust’s previous involvement with Kelston Boys High School?
The Bangerz Trust previously attempted to convert Kelston Boys High School into a charter school, and launched a bid to take over the school in October. This bid was withdrawn due to public opposition.
What is the current status of the police investigation?
Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting confirmed that a complaint has been lodged and the matter is currently under investigation. No further specifics are being released at this time.
Given the ongoing police investigation and the trust’s previous attempts to influence the school’s governance, it remains to be seen what further actions may be taken by either party, or whether the investigation will uncover additional information regarding the trust’s activities.
