On Wednesday we received the very sad news that Mr Tahu Potiki, one of our Columba parents, had passed away.  

Mr Potiki was a well known and highly respected figure in Te Ao Māori (the Māori world) who worked tirelessly for his culture and language in many roles over the years, most notably as Chief Executive for Ngai Tahu (2002-2006).  

As a school we appreciated Mr Potiki's involvement and words of welcome at the Commissioning Service for Mrs Duthie earlier this year. His daughter, Ripeka, (a Year 8 pupil), also played an important role in this service with her beautiful waiata tautoko/song of support.  

On Friday a group of Year 8 students, Kapa Haka members and teachers, accompanied by Mrs Duthie and Ms Riethmaier, were grateful to have the opportunity to visit Ōtākou Marae to pay our respects.  

Our sincere condolences go out to Ripeka, her family, and the wider Ōtākou community, at this time.