Tēnā koutou e ngā ākonga, ngā whānau, me ngā kaiako mō tō koutou awhi me ō koutou tautoko i a Rūaumoko tenei tau. Nā tō koutou kaha, māia, me te aroha, kua puāwai te mātauranga ki roto i tēnei whare. Kei te tuku mihi au ki a koutou katoa mō te wairua mahana, me te manaaki i roto i ngā mahi ia rā. He hōnore nui ki ahau te tū hei Kaiwhakahaere Marae me te arahi i tēnei kaupapa mātauranga i raro i te korowai o Rūaumoko.

Marae Education at Rūaumoko this year

Term 1: Our focus was on pepeha. From Early Childhood Education (ECE) to Tū Kōkiri, ākonga and kaiako explored the deeper meaning of pepeha, realising it’s more than just an introduction; it’s an expression of identity, whakapapa, and the unique connections that define us.

Term 2 and 3: These terms were filled with the spirit of Matariki, a special time for connecting with our whenua and whānau. At Kelston Base, Matariki celebrations included a memorable hāngi, supported by our ākonga and their whānau. We were privileged to have our kaumātua, Whiti Ronaki, share his knowledge in preparing the hāngi, a cherished tradition. I deeply thank Whiti, Carol, Eric and Milton for their ongoing support.

Term 4: Our focus is on waiata, adding to our kete of knowledge and supporting the paepae at Rūaumoko. Older students are exploring tuakana/teina relationships, collaborating with Ormiston Primary for fortnightly visits, spending time with our ECE centre, and deepening their understanding of these important relationships.

Additionally, Outreach students attended three Keep in Touch (KIT) Days, celebrating te ao Māori on their own tūrangawaewae. KIT Days are wonderful opportunities for students to embrace their Deaf identity and connect culturally within the welcoming space of their Marae.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this year’s learning, strengthening our relationships and leading kaupapa in Rūaumoko while extending this spirit into the wider Turi community.