Across 3 different days all five of the Year 9 Social Studies classes had the opportunity to visit the Ōpihi Taniwha Māori Rock Art sites in Totara Valley.

PMP and PWP visited on Friday May 13th, PWK and PHK on Tuesday May 17th, and PHR on Tuesday May 24th. The visits were guided by the Te Ana Māori Rock Art guides.

Each class visited the rock outcrop area which overlooks the Ōpihi River. As well as the amazing view, it gave us the opportunity to see how Māori used the river like a road to travel and gather mahika kai as well for trade. At the Taniwha Rock Art site we were able to see the impressive rock art drawings of Rangi and Papatuanuku from approximately 600 years ago. Paint for the rock art was made from animal or bird fat mixed with vegetable gum, soot or kokowai (red ochre) to make either red or black paint. We also saw all the plantings taking place in order to restore the area to the native biodiversity it had originally.

The trips were very informative and enjoyable. Thanks to all the teachers involved over the three trips - Mrs Shears, Mr Kuperus, Miss McBride, Mr Capstick, Miss Charteris, Miss Fahey, Sonya, Ed, Julie and Mrs Barge.