On Monday 22nd of September a rōpū of students and three teachers travelled to Napier for Ngā Manu Kōrero Nationals. 

Held at Pettigrew Green Arena this year, only 47 students had the honour of taking the stage and speaking their messages to the crowd and the esteemed judging panel.

Our very own Jacobi Kohu-Morris, who won the regional Senior English Section, took the stage twice on Wednesday the 24th. I thought he was great and he really used his words as power.

Overall the trip was a great experience and it was awesome to hear the creativity, motivation and intellect in all of the speeches. It's a great opportunity to experience the culture and networks from all over the country.

I know the whole rōpū would like to thank Matua Tip for organising such a fun trip, and to Ms Johnson and Mrs Spicer for accompanying us as well. And to Ahinata Kaitai-Mullane, Ngapera Andrews, Karen Penaia and Jacobi for enhancing the enjoyment of the trip.