Mana Pounamu Young Achievers awards, celebrating rakatahi Māori excellence across Ōtākou/Otago was held at the end of June.  

Our 2025 recipients were Harrison Waaka & Portia Chambers. 

This year marked a 25-year milestone for the awards that began in 2001. The awards were established to recognise the diverse talents and achievements of young Māori, encouraging aspirations toward tertiary education and beyond. 

Harrison and Portia were recognised for their leadership, kindness and resilience. They were supported by their whānau, our Kapahaka tutor, Timikuka,  and some of our ākonga. At the presentation of their awards; Roxburgh & Maniototo Area School joined our ākonga to perform the South of the South Area Schools Haka to show their tautoko (Support) for them. A true example of the special connection between Area Schools. This was followed by hangi for lunch at the Otago Polytechnic hub. Congratulations Harrison & Portia on this tūmeke/awesome achievement.