Students loved learning a new game in school this term.

We took three Amesbury teams to the Kī-o-Rahi festival; one Y5 and two Y6 teams. They loved the experience and shared their knowledge of the game with their peers. Chants were heard from the sidelines, as our teams supported each other. (The Supporters' Chant)

Kī-o-Rahi is based on the Purakau (legend) of Rahitutakahina and the rescue of his wife Tiarakurapakewai. The Tākaro (game) is a reflection of Tupuna (ancestor) storytelling at its best, as well as providing an insight into the way in which they would explain and design Tākaro to reflect their unique "world view". The Papa Tākaro (field) layout of Kī-o-Rahi and the way the Tākaro is played is a perfect example of this.

Kī-o-Rahi is a fast-paced contact sport that uses a circular field. Games are played between a defending 'taniwha' team and an attacking 'kīoma' team. Teams score points by touching the tupu (central marker) with the ball. Rules vary from place to place, and the game can be played as a touch, tag or tackle sport.

This term, the whole school learnt how to play Kī-o-Rahi through sessions led by Kelly Sports. It involved a range of physical movements such as running, sidestepping, and evasive manoeuvres with the Kī (ball). Students took part in sessions designed to improve their one-handed and two-handed passing and catching techniques, and their blocking, jumping, and accurate shooting skills. They learnt how to play strategically as the tag ripping game encouraged them to anticipate opponents' movements, analyse game situations, and make quick decisions. Alongside these skills, we saw how they built on their communication and teamwork skills in a new environment.

Many students want to continue playing Kī-o-Rahi at school this year. We are looking forward to them passing on their expertise to students and staff alike.