New Students, parents and whānau

To start the 2020 school year we welcomed everyone, returning and new to the school on Monday 3rd February. Once again the day dawned beautifully and the peaceful environs of the school marae Te Waonui ā Tane played host to a warm and inviting ceremony. We hope all our parents and whānau enjoyed the morning and the singing by the roopu Kapa Haka.

During those ceremony there is a number of times speakers will use Te Reo Māori and this might be challenging for those who do not yet understand that language. Mostly the Te Reo used is to recognise and acknowledge both those who have contributed in some way to the ceremony and the important/sacred geographic landmarks and places of the local hāpu Ngati Rehia and Ngati Torehina from further along the peninsula. As a school we believe it is important to acknowledge tangata whenua as the indigenous people of Aotearoa, New Zealand.

We are surrounded by many historically significant landmarks in this area, something that is a rich source of learning and connection. We are seeking to expand our access to the landmarks and stories that surround them as a way to build increased historical literacy for our children. As always we welcome your support of this, and any contributions you feel are important to make.