TCAS headed to Lawrence Area School on Thursday for a Kapahaka exchange. Roxburgh Area School, Lawrence Area School, South Otago High School, Blue Mountain College all joined in on the experience.

We were all welcomed into the school with a pōwhiri followed by speeches by the Principals of each school. Each school supported their own Principal by giving a "waiata tautoko" (this is a song sung after a speech or whaikōrero (formal speech) to reinforce or enhance the message conveyed).

All the schools were then split into different groups and went to different workshops around the school. The first workshop was a game of Pukana on the field with pois as well. The second workshop was Mau rākau where we used the taiaha to learn about training in battle formations, weaponry, and combat techniques. In another workshop a local identity shared how kai was sourced traditionally by using tools.

We gathered together again and had a traditional hangi for lunch. Afterwards in the gym we formed a circle and sang songs together with actions. Each school performed a haka to show appreciation. Then the Area Schools came together to perform their special haka - Te Kei O Te Waka.

The highlight for me was seeing everyone get involved and immersing themselves in our culture.

Astrid Morrison