This year’s Matariki celebrations are focused on ‘honouring the past, celebrating the future. With this in mind we honoured the past by acknowledging mana whenua and also those in the Community who were instrumental in the original building of these playing courts.

In celebrating the future, we gathered together to open our new refurbished playing courts. These courts are more than just a place for physical activity; they represent a community that can work together and is committed to the well-being and growth of our tamariki.

I would like to thank the following organisations and individuals who supported the refurbishment of our playing courts:

The Ministry of Education - funding via ‘Special Interest Projects’

The Otago Community Trust - funding (Sue Stewart)

The Owaka Lions Club - funding

The Catlins Area School Home & School - funding (Sam Dallas & Stella Smith)

The School Board of The Catlins Area School - funding

Tineka Scott - access to the courts through her land for contractors

Robyn Lietze - Grant applications, contractor liaison

Sport provides a powerful context for students and the community to connect, learn and grow together through teamwork, discipline, and tenacity. These courts are a valuable asset for our tamariki and increase the sports played in Owaka. I look forward to a summer of tennis, basketball, outside volleyball, and future netball events.

These courts symbolise our dedication to providing high-quality facilities for our tamariki and community. As we look forward to the many games, practices, and community events that will take place here, let us remember the importance of fair play, respect, and kotahitanga - unity. Ma te kotahitanga e whai kaha ai tātau. - In unity, we have strength.

I extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed to making this vision a reality. Your hard work and dedication are deeply appreciated.

No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

 The courts were officially opened by cutting the ribbon and the much-anticipated netball game between staff/parents and students began; the students took a convincing win!

Glenys Hanley