On Thursday 19 June 2025, our entire school travelled together to Te Pou o Mata au, to take part in the Puaka Matariki Iwikatea celebration. This special event brought together schools, early learning centres, and community groups from across the region to acknowledge and celebrate the Māori New Year.

The day began with a mihi whakatau (formal welcome), followed by a whaikōrero from Timikuka Walker and Matu Coleman-Clark. It was a beautiful way to open the event, setting the tone for a day filled with connection, culture, and community.

Our kura was proud to be the first to perform, with our kapa haka rōpū taking the stage at 10:30am. They gave a solid performance and made the most of the opportunity to share what they’ve been working on. The group performed a mix of waiata, including two new ones; Whakataka te Hau and I Ahu Mai Rā, as well as our school waiata, Owaka Ā Anei Rā and Te Kē o te Waka Haka.  

It was a wonderful opportunity for our ākonga to not only support their peers in kapa haka but also to take part in a wider celebration of mātauranga Māori, whanaungatanga, and community spirit. We are incredibly proud of all our performers and grateful to have been part of such a meaningful event.

He rawe te rā – what a fantastic day!