This week all Year 10 students participated in the overnight Noho Marae experience at Puketeraki Marae in Karitane.

We left early in the day travelling out via either the Orokonui Ecosanctuary or Otago Museum where we were welcomed and introduced to Kai Tahu ideas about sustainability, restoration and kaitiakitaka (guardianship and conservation). The students were able to participate in various activities and see first hand the efforts that have gone into restoring habitats and protecting taonga. Many students particularly enjoyed engaging with the birdlife at the Ecosanctuary and learning about the various uses of different plants. Thanks to all the educators who made these visits very meaningful for us.

In the early afternoon we began the culturally enriching experience of being formally welcomed onto Puketeraki Marae. For many students this was their first experience of being on a marae and for most girls their first overnight marae experience. Later in the afternoon we enjoyed a beach walk on our way to the Huriawa Pā site where Whaea Joe showed us around and shared stories about the previously impregnable fortress and the Kāi Tahu chief Te Wera. Then it was back to the marae for our evening meal after which we shared our mihi before further activities and then bed.

After a restful night’s sleep in the wharenui we woke, had breakfast and groups were able to witness a beautiful sunrise over Karitane. The tutors arrived and we were once again immersed in learning about culture, values and customs, language and history, sustainability and economics from the perspective of Kāi Tahu. For many students the best part was experiencing the different arts and crafts workshops such as flax weaving or making clay musical instruments and artefacts whilst for others it was the storytelling and traditional Maori games.

Overall this was a rewarding trip for all involved. Special thanks must go to all the tutors, teachers, and senior students who came and helped out as well as the people of Puketeraki Marae for making us feel so welcome. Thank you in particular to Whaea Joe, Matua Mac and all the teachers for all their hard work at the marae.