"We're pleased to be able to take part at an event when most things this year have been cancelled!"

With so many school events cancelled in 2021, it was awesome that this event was able to proceed. This was a common view shared by our ākonga as we took part at this year's edition of Tūhono.

Tūhono 2021 lived up to expectations. There were melodic waiatas, brilliantly choreographed waiata-a-ringas and spine tingling hakas. Despite the many disruptions we've had this year, all schools put on a fantastic array of high calibre performances.

For Heaton, our waiata tira was Hotuhotu, a song written about the coming together of the people in our community after the mosque attack in 2019. It represented heart, healing and hope.

Our waiata-a-ringa, E Tu Pohiritia, was a song about welcoming everyone from all around the motu of Aotearoa, from the bottom of the south to the top of the north.

Our Haka, Ka Panapana is a well known women’s haka from Te Tai Rāwhiti. The haka Whitiwhiti & Wēku, wekū are about fierceness and the unity of men jumping in sync.

Congratulations and mihi to Casebrook Intermediate School for their first placings of all three items. Heaton placed second in the waiata-a-ringa and finished second overall for combined points across all three items. This was a fastastic achievement and acknolwedgement of the hard work our ākonga had put in.

Mihi to our two tutors: Matua Sonny and Whaea Tui for their time, passion and commitment. Mihi also to our four kapa haka leaders: Charlotte, Christopher, Gloria and Jaye.

To all the Year 8 students who have been a part of our rōpu this year, I wish you all the very best for high school next year. Thank you for your enthusiasm and being positive role models.

To all students, enjoy your well earned summer breaks. Mrs Hill and I have enjoyed working with you all and seeing you grow and develop your passion for kapa haka.

Ngā mihi

Mr Phanpho