Ngā Manu Kōrero ki Waitaha 2023
Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi kaimahi united to achieve the massive undertaking of hosting Ngā Manu Kōrero ki Waitaha for 2023. This momentous occasion marked the return of the event to Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi after 23 years, making it larger than any previous gathering witnessed by the dedicated long-serving staff. With participants from 20 kura as far and wide as Tihi o Maru - Timaru and across to Te Tai Poutini - West Coast, more than 1000 manuhiri gathered over two days to listen to the captivating kōrero of rangatahi from across Waitaha/Aoraki.
The event commenced on Taite 15 Hune with a powerful pōwhiri held in the transformed Hiwa i te rangi, which had been converted from the new gym into a grand stage, exquisitely dressed with the tautoko of plants from Woodend Nursery. Thanks to the exceptional support from Shipley's, the venue was equipped with top-notch sound and technology, while Tahu FM live-streamed the entire event. After the formalities, the esteemed kaumatua were invited to Karanga Mai for morning tea, the kaikōrero were escorted to the squash courts, and the kaitautoko were shown to the classroom which was to be their kaingā rua for the two days. Having their own kaingā rua was a highlight for kaitautoko, something they had not experienced before and they really appreciated the thought and manaaki of having their own space.
The journey for the senior kaikōrero commenced in the squash courts, where their phones were temporarily collected before being summoned to deliver their impromptu speeches. Each kaikōrero was personally guided to the backstage area of Hiwa i te rangi, where they were handed five envelopes containing speech topics. Given a brief five minutes to prepare, they confidently took the stage to deliver their inspiring kōrero, adhering to specific time limits for both Te Reo Māori and English speeches. We were fortunate to have Chonny and Caitlin Mackey-Harrison backstage, assisting in placing the microphones on the kaikōrero. With the microphones secured, each rangatahi embarked on their journey to the stage, captivating the eager audience with their kōrero.
The senior kaikōrero were evaluated by a prestigious panel of judges consisting of respected manukura. Dr Hana O'Regan, Lynne Harata Te Aika, Mark Rangi, Ariana Stevens, and Thomas Aerepo-Morgan assessed the impromptu speeches in the Senior Māori section and the prepared speeches for the Pei Te Hurinui Jones taonga. In the English section, Dr Kay-Lee Jones, Melanie Taite-Pitama, Stephanie Richardson, Huata Arahanga, and Jody Hohaia-O'Sullivan judged both the impromptu and prepared speeches for the Korimako taonga. The impromptu speech section culminated with a memorable address, allowing the Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi Manu Kōrero committee time to regroup for the next day.
The morning of Paraire 16 Hune began with Makaia Raimona delivering her powerful speech ‘E kapakapa ana taku manawa’, followed by Ariana Roberts, who shared her unapologetically Māori experience. Makaia Raimona, Tūhourangi-Ngāti Wāhiao, showcased her exceptional oratory skills in her final year of participating in Manu Kōrero. Judges were moved to tears, sharing nods of agreement, and bursts of laughter throughout her inspiring kōrero. Ariana Roberts, year 12, Ngāti Porou Ngāti Kahungunu, eloquently represented her heritage in the English - Korimako section and eagerly looks forward to returning as a year 13 speaker in 2024, if given the opportunity. Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi kaitautoko offered their heartfelt support to Makaia and Ariana through an emotional rendition of the school haka, Te Mana o te Kura, before everyone moved to the Auditorium for the Junior speeches.
The sections held in the Auditorium featured Te Rāwhiti Ihaka and Sir Turi Carroll categories, with esteemed manukura Ross Paniora, Chrissy Rask, Kari Moana Te Rongopatahi, Kerrie-Anna Tana, and Alex Solomon judging the Junior Māori section. Janelle Riki-Waaka, Aaron Hāpuku, Karuna Thurlow, Mariechen Ngarotata, and Henare Te Aika-Puanaki lent their expertise to judge the Junior English section.
The stage was set for the junior speakers, and the first to grace it was Dallas Rakena, Ngāti Maniapoto Te Rarawa, a talented year 9 student. Dallas captivated the audience with his speech on Tōnā Pepehā. Following him, Teia Viljoen, Ngāti Kahungunu, a year 10 student, drew upon her ancestral connections to embrace her unapologetic Māori identity. It was the debut performance for both these promising speakers, and Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi once again showed their unwavering support.
A crucial aspect of the competition is the vital role of time-keeping. Accurate time-keeping is essential to ensure fair and precise scoring for each kaikōrero. In Manu Kōrero, a single second can make a significant difference of up to five points, sometimes determining the line between first and second place. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amber Goldsworthy and Paekitāwhiti Muriwai from Te Ahu o Te Reo ki Ngāi Tahu and Te Kāhui Ako Kātote kaiako for their meticulous time-keeping throughout the two-day event. Their precision and attention to detail played a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the competition, ensuring that each participant received a fair assessment based on their allotted time.
We cannot overlook the significant contribution of Matua Remihana Emery, who took on the crucial role of leading the collation process. Supported by a dedicated team, including Mr Christian Alino, Lee Cate, Ms Robyn McEwen, Whaea Lucy Emery, Ms Irene Lau, Mr Sam Su, and Ms Megan Lass, they meticulously collated the judging papers and ensured the accuracy of scores. Their dedication and efficiency were unparalleled as they successfully completed this monumental task in record time. Their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the competition and providing a fair evaluation for all participants deserves the utmost recognition and gratitude.
The act of sharing kai symbolizes hospitality, community, and the coming together of people to share a meal. Whaea Joanna Ututaonga, Leanne Barnes, and Year 13 student Jaz Mead worked diligently to provide catering services during the two-day event. Their efforts were dedicated to ensuring that the judges, kaumatua, and other VIPs were well taken care of and provided with nourishment. By taking on this responsibility, these individuals not only demonstrated their commitment to hospitality, but also contributed to fostering a sense of community and connection among the event attendees. Sharing kai in such events serves as a way to acknowledge and honour the guests, creating an atmosphere of togetherness and celebration. Whaea Sarah-Jane Paki, with the help of year 11 student Waimarie Watene-Mercep, led the team in Karanga Mai for VIPs from the Senior Stage. Tūī Van Pelt and Makaia Raimona took on the responsibility of manning the coffee machine and assisting the staff at the Turning Point Restaurant, particularly for the VIPs from the Junior Stage. The kai team’s support was crucial in providing refreshments and ensuring the smooth operation of both whare kai. Furthermore, it's important to express gratitude to Grandma for her dedicated effort in making fried bread. Her contribution demonstrates a personal touch and adds a traditional element to the event's culinary offerings. Grandma's commitment to preparing this delicious food would have been greatly appreciated by all who enjoyed it.
The outstanding efforts of Mr Connor Smith led to securing sponsorships from organisations such as Te Taura Whiri i te reo Māori, Kotahi Mano Kāika, PPTA - Te Wehengarua, Tahu FM, Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki-Lincoln University, ARA-Te Pukenga, The Scent, Matatū, UC - Canterbury University, The Little Printing Company, Te Mātāwai, and Te Ahu o te Reo Māori ki Ngāi Tahu. Thanks to his dedication, an array of exciting prizes, including hats, drink bottles, pens, notebooks, lunch boxes, t-shirts, and hoodies, were available for giveaways, adding to the excitement and engagement of the event.
The true sense of community and the mana of previous kaikōrero of Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi were beautifully embodied by the MCs throughout the two days. Destiny Robson, Ngāti Kurī, Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa, Ngā Puhi Head Girl in 2018, and Layla Bailey-McDowell, Ngāti Porou, Te Aitawa, Head Girl in 2019, entertained the audience with interactive activities, competitions, and engaging kēmu on the Senior stage. Tahu Paki, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngā Puhi, Head Boy 1996 who is now a Deputy Principal at TKKM o Te Whakapūmau i Te Reo Tūturu ki Waitaha, supported Destiny in Layla’s absence on Paraire. On the Junior Stage, Waiora Brooks, Ngāpuhi, Head Girl in 2020, received support from Segia Pitama Uta'i, Ngāi Tūāhuriri creating an energetic and vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to the dynamic MCs, Mr Wade Cook played a vital role in coordinating Hoko Lane, a fundraising opportunity for the kura tuatahi within Te Kāhui Ako Kātote. This initiative also allowed Level 1 Business Studies ākonga to showcase their entrepreneurial skills by selling their products to the manuhiri and kaimahi present during the event. Furthermore, Mr Cook collaborated with the Māori wardens, who graciously supported the event by overseeing the parking arrangements on-site over the two days.
Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi ākonga continued to provide remarkable support for Ngā Manu Kōrero Ki Waitaha 2023, with the involvement of two outstanding individuals. Nikau Van Pelt, Te Rarawa, Te Arawa Ngāti Pikiao, Head Student of 2022, and 2023 Head Girl Jade Wilson, Matāutu Uta Samoa, played a crucial role in the event. Notably, Jade took on the responsibility of designing this year's Manu Kōrero logo. Drawing inspiration from the mural in the Auditorium, where the Junior speeches took place, her design features a pīwakawaka holding two poi in its beak. The logo captures the significance of the pīwakawaka to Kaiapoi, while the poi symbolise the essence of whakapapa, connection to whenua, and the continuity of culture through generations and growth. Jade's creative vision and dedication to representing the spirit of Ngā Manu Kōrero through her design is commendable. Her logo serves as a visual representation of the event's values and cultural significance, capturing the essence of Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi and its commitment to fostering cultural pride and growth.
The captivating Manu Kōrero logo served as more than just a visual representation of the event. It became a symbol of unity and manaaki at Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi. Utilizing the logo, the kaimahi weru was created to identify staff members who were available to offer guidance and support to manuhiri throughout the kura. The weru, screen-printed by The Little Printing Company, prominently displayed the logo, ensuring its visibility and recognition. Furthermore, the logo's versatility was showcased through the creative craftsmanship of Matua Pete Graham and Mr Clint McAuley. They skillfully used it to construct a wakapīwakawaka version of a wakahuia. Each wakapīwakawaka was gifted to the esteemed judges. Inside, a sustainable air freshener made of wood, created by The Scent—a group comprising current and former ākonga of Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi—was placed. Additionally, earnings made by Te Kohikohiko added a personal touch to the koha. Every item within the wakapīwakawaka, including the air freshener and the earrings, was adorned with Jade's beautifully designed logo. These thoughtful and meaningful gifts highlighted the spirit of collaboration and creativity within Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi. The logo, extending its presence beyond visual representation, became a unifying symbol woven into various aspects of the event, fostering a sense of pride and connection among all involved.
It is wonderful to recognize the dedication and hard work of the ākonga who went above and beyond to assist with various tasks during the event, often going unnoticed. Their willingness to give up their time and support as kaimahi assistants is truly commendable. These students showed a strong sense of pride in their kura by actively participating in the smooth running of the event. Their commitment is evident in their willingness to stay overnight on Taite and be available as early as 6.00 am to prepare for the day ahead, ensuring that everything was in order and ready for the event to unfold seamlessly. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and acknowledge the following ākonga for their invaluable contributions: Te Ruapounamu Robson, Terongomaianiwaniwa Williams, Mica Wilson, Bobbi Bailey-McDowell, Odin Czepanski, Talula Green, Nikora Wall, Eli Emery, Jordy Keating, Jeremiah Amataga, Kingston Fanselow, Riley Pehi, Cord’e’ and Daisharn Kennelly, Tiare Mansfield-Brown, Makani Rakena, Ben Ritchie, Nui O’Brien Strickland, Miriam Nabi, Elisha Garratty, and Saffron Carmody. Their selflessness, dedication, and hard work played a vital role in ensuring the success of the event and contributed to creating a positive and memorable experience for all involved. The kura can take pride in having such exceptional ākonga who embody the values of teamwork, service, and community. Ngā mihi nui; Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari kē he toa takitini.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of kaimahi from Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi played integral roles in ensuring the smooth running of the event. Led by the capable guidance of Whaea Whitney Richardson, Mr Edward Kwon, and Mr Connor O'Rourke, Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi staff worked tirelessly to handle various crucial tasks. Their efforts were instrumental in the overall success of Ngā Manu Kōrero ki Waitaha 2023. Taking charge of the preparation and set-up of the stages, wharekai, and kaingā rua, ensuring that every aspect of the event was meticulously arranged, they expertly supervised the kura and the participants in their respective holding areas, ensuring that the kaikōrero were well-prepared and supported before they took the stage. Moreover, they diligently monitored the entrance to the stage areas, upholding the mana of each kaikōrero and maintaining the smooth flow of the event. Their dedication and hard work were invaluable in creating a conducive and professional atmosphere for all involved. Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi is immensely grateful for the unwavering commitment and exceptional efforts of these staff members, whose behind-the-scenes contributions played a crucial role in the event's overall success.
Under the guidance of Whaea Danna Robson and the dedication of Mrs Ruth Keir, Te Kura Tuarua o Kaiapoi hosting of Ngā Manu Kōrero ki Waitaha 2023 was a resounding success, showcasing the talent, unity, and mana of the kaimahi, manuhiri, and participants involved. It was a momentous occasion that will be remembered for years to come, leaving a lasting legacy of inspiration and pride within the school community and beyond.
This website has the livestreams for the event: https://tahufm.online/home/manu-korero/