The regional Māori speech competitions were hosted by Lincoln University on Friday, July 28. 40 of our kapa haka girls headed to Lincoln to watch the speeches and support our own two speakers who were competing against some of the best young orators from Canterbury.

The bus departed from school at 7 a.m and returned at 8.30p.m, so it was a very long day but a wonderful showcase of Māori culture and language.

Our speakers were Anahera Beatty and Tia Roffey, both year ten students. Anahera spoke in Te Reo Māori and as a second language learner of Māori she put a huge amount of effort into writing and learning her speech. She is to be commended for her perseverance and for presenting a thoughtful speech on the day. Anahera spoke about gender inequality with a focus on the status of Māori women within our contemporary society. 

Tia spoke in English and was rewarded for her efforts with a commendable sixth placing out of 16 speakers. Tia’s speech focussed on the potential of mātauranga Māori to help solve worldwide problems.

Both girls were wonderful representatives of our school. Manu Kōrero is always a highlight of our year and we are very grateful to Lincoln University for their wonderful manaakitanga.